Florida American Legion Boys State, Florida’s premier youth leadership program, recently announced the election of constitutional officers, legislative leaders and Supreme Court justices for it 77th session, which included two Nease High School students.
The two Nease students were Nate Fagen, who was elected chief financial officer, and Khush Gandhi, who was elected commissioner of agriculture.
Vincent Lahera of Lecanto High School (Citrus County) was elected governor.
Those elected on a statewide ballot were sworn in June 25. Gov. Lahera also appointed seven members of the Boys State Supreme Court. Over the course of two days, these officers and justices of the Boys State legislative branch will oversee mock sessions designed to further educate delegates about Florida’s government.
“While the election of officers is an exciting moment for all 352 delegates, the true heart of the program are the mock sessions,” said Florida American Legion Boys State Director Forrest D. Boone. “Delegates pass bills, hear judicial cases and respond to simulated crises and will end the week with a deeper appreciation of our democracy and the importance of good governance.”
State officers and legislators are elected by their peers, but nominated by their two mock parties — the Nationalists and the Federalists. These mock parties educate delegates about Florida’s two-party system and allow them to craft their own platforms and beliefs.
