As many Saint Anselm students anxiously awaited the results of races across all levels of government on November 5, one Anselmian freshman, James Thibault, was particularly invested in the outcome of his home district. At just 18 years old, Thibault, who spent his Tuesday night in the New Hampshire Institute of Politics (NHIOP), celebrated a landslide victory over his Democratic opponent, earning a seat in the state House of Representatives for Merrimack County’s District 25. Demonstrating a clear passion for politics, Thibault secured 59.4% of the general election vote, expressing his sincere and ongoing commitment to balancing representing his constituents with his academic commitments. “House Session meets on Thursdays, so I have to ensure that I don’t have classes [then]… I am also going to try to get a committee assignment that will work around my schedule while also being suited to my skill set and background.” His success, a monumental moment in his burgeoning political career, reflects a broader trend of growing political activism among young people, many of whom are voting– or, like Thibault, running– for the first time.
Thibault’s journey to the New Hampshire House of Representatives has been long lasting, marked by his engagement in various state and national youth committees, councils, and coalitions. Previously, he served as the chairman of the New Hampshire Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC), a committee composed of high school and college students that advises the state legislature on issues impacting their often-underrepresented demographic. Additionally, Thibault served on the Governor’s Youth Advisory Council on Substance Misuse and Prevention (GYAC), as well as representing New Hampshire at the American Legion’s Boys Nation Program and the United States Senate Youth Program. These positions, while appointed rather than elected, demonstrated Thibault’s leadership abilities and steadfast dedication to advocating for young people in the state’s decision-making process.
Clearly Thibault, who hopes to serve on the House Education Committee, holds many issues close to his heart, but none more so than the value of a comprehensive civics education, an area where he has long held a deep commitment to reform. He is a passionate advocate for expanding civics education in schools, believing that youth engagement– informed by a keen understanding of their role in our civil system– is essential to the success of our democratic experiment. In an interview with Ballotpedia earlier this year, Thibault emphasized the importance of providing students with more opportunities “to learn about and experience what it means to be an American and a Granite Stater.” He continued, “I’ll advocate for more ways for students to learn in the best ways for them, both in and outside the classroom.”
Beyond education, Thibault’s platform includes protecting the libertarian values that make New Hampshire unique, emphasizing his commitment to preserving the state’s low taxes and local government. He is a staunch advocate for constitutional carry, which allows law-abiding New Hampshirites to carry firearms without a permit, and opposes any state income or sales tax. Moreover, he champions direct local control over government, and active engagement in one’s community. These core principles reflect his belief in maintaining New Hampshire’s autonomy and ensuring that its residents continue to benefit from the Granite State policies that prioritize individual freedom and local decision-making.
With his victory, Thibault joins a growing movement of young, dedicated individuals eager to shape the future of both local and national politics. This particularly tumultuous Election Night saw a range of candidates triumph across the political spectrum, but Thibault’s success stands out as a shining beacon of youth activism. His election demonstrates that young people can and should be involved in the political process, and can have a real, tangible impact on the issues they care about. The 2024 election cycle has shown that youth voter turnout is rising and political engagement is growing, and Thibault’s victory is emblematic of the transition of young Americans from spectators to active participants in the political arena.
Generation Z, born between 1996 and 2012, is finally coming of age, with approximately 24 million “Gen Zers” having the opportunity to cast their first ballots this election cycle. However, Thibault emphasized, those who are unable to participate in the conventionally-considered methods of civic contributions still have many means of having their voices heard. “If you care about an issue, research it, contact your legislators, testify, or advocate.” He continued, “being civically engaged is absolutely possible.”
As the youngest, newest member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, James Thibault brings a fresh perspective and a fervent desire to represent his peers and constituents. He serves as an inspiration for young people everywhere, proving that age is not a barrier to political participation and leadership, but rather a gateway; that youth is not a weakness, but a strength. “To my fellow Anselmians and other young people: I hope this proves that everyone can get involved with government and civics.”