10/30/2011
Read more: http://newsok.com/young-candidates-say-experience-is-not-an-issue-in-oklahoma-elections/article/3473421
Virgin, 23, of Norman, is running in the Democratic Party primary for the House District 44 seat. But she isn't the only young candidate in the race. Isaiah McCaslin, 26, of Norman, is one of Virgin's competitors.
Flanked on either side by men twice their age, McCaslin and Virgin held their own at a recent candidate forum hosted by the Cleveland County Democratic Party in Norman. One issue that was not raised was their age.
Virgin and McCaslin — two of the 29 people younger than 30 who filed to run for state office — say age and experience have not been a political issue so far. Both candidates, and others younger than 30 running for office, say most constituents are energized by the prospect of a young candidate.
"A good public servant doesn't need political experience,” Virgin said. "I didn't see a reason to wait.”
Other candidates said their work with nonprofit organizations and volunteer groups shows they are ready for public service. McCaslin, who took a few years off after high school so he could work with service organizations in Los Angeles and travel the world, said that gives him an advantage.
"I may be 26, but I've got a couple extra years of experience,” he said.
Republican Zana Williams, 22, of Oklahoma City, is running for House District 94. She said constituents are supportive of a young candidate.
"For a lot of people, it has been refreshing to see the youth taking an active role,” Williams said. "I've heard from several people that everyone else has been given a chance; why not give the youth a chance?”
When Emily Virgin knocks on the door, the inevitable question is, "How old are you?”
