5 Reasons Why Cory Booker Will Be In The White House In 2024 (And Why I’m Excited About It)

For anyone who watched the first night of the Democratic National Convention, you know that there were numerous influential moments that confidently established cries for unity and proclaimed hopes for strong new leadership within the party’s near future. As political commentator Chris Matthews stated on MSNBC’s coverage of the DNC as the evening came to a close, “the democrat’s first night may turn out to be more successful than the republican’s last night.” To everyone’s delight and to no one’s surprise, Michelle Obama stole the show with her elegant and inspiring speech, which has been and will continue to be the highlight of the night on every news network. (If you missed the FLOTUS speech you seriously need to check it out right now: http://www.cnn.com/videos/politics/2016/07/25/dnc-…)

But let’s not gloss over another EXTREMELY important speaker that blessed the stage in Philadelphia on night one of the DNC with one of the most enticing and exhilarating speeches I have seen in quite a long while: Cory Booker. This isn’t the first time Senator Booker has gotten air time, not in the slightest. I’ve seen him around. I have not, however, seen him in the spotlight enough as to think of him as a potential presidential candidate until last night. And now I know that this is about to change. And I’m super pumped about it.

I am aware that it’s a little early to be thinking about the next presidential election when we haven’t even voted for this one yet. But also, it’s not. Because young people need to be excited about politics. And Cory Booker is someone that young people (and all people, really) should be excited about. Here’s why:

1. He’s Smart.

Should be a given, but you never know in today’s political world. Not only was Booker’s DNC speech full of passion, but it was also a bit of a history lesson. This is a guy who knows his stuff. Not surprising when you find out that Booker has an honors degree in US History from The Queen’s College that was paid for by a Rhodes Scholarship, which he was awarded upon completing his undergraduate degree at Stanford University. And after The Queen’s College? Oh, nothing much. Just Yale Law School.

2. He Looks Good In a Suit.

I know, not the most important trait. But as president, image does matter. And looking good in a suit is part of that. Also, wow. Gotta love a man who knows how to dress. Am I right or am I right?

3. He Wants It.

I mean, he hasn’t come out and told me yet. But this is a man with ambition. Did you see his speech? (Seriously, did you? Did you??? If this doesn’t get you pumped and ready to take on the world then I don’t know what will: http://www.cnn.com/videos/politics/2016/07/25/dnc-…). Wanting the presidency is half of the game. I don’t know about you, but I want someone with big goals and a hell of a lot of perseverance to be banging on the White House door. As a college student, chasing big dreams is something I can relate to. Can’t you see it in his face? The twinkle in his eye as the crowd ate up his speech at the DNC tells all: Senator Cory Booker is ready for bigger and better things.

4. He’s Hip & With It.

Senator Cory Booker is on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, you name it. I haven’t checked MySpace, but I really wouldn’t be surprised if he has one and it’s completely up-to-date. For real. He’s also super active on Snapchat. And not just letting an assistant or PR employee run it, either. He even uses geo-filters. Oh, and not only is he trying to connect with young people by using our apps and social media, but he’s actually talking to us and listening to us. He has appealed to a younger demographic throughout his political career, and he has made a point to speak at a number of schools and universities. That’s pretty sweet.

5. He Has Energy And Passion.

A lot of young people have felt the “Bern” this past year, myself included. I also know many young people who have gotten behind Trump’s campaign. Although the two candidates differed greatly on the issues, there is one factor that very closely relates them: they sparked energy and passion for reform across America. This is good. Without passion, and a will to promote change, nothing will ever get done. It’s exciting to see people, especially young people, getting heated about politics. Senator Cory Booker can bring the heat, too. At age 47, Booker is young, energetic, and ready to conquer all. In 2013, President Obama spoke of Senator Booker’s passion and dedication to New Jersey and how Booker “has dedicated his life to the work of building hope and opportunity in communities where too little of either existed...His passion for his city has helped create new jobs and attract some of America’s top businesses to Newark.” (Full article from Aug 21, 2013 at http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2013/08/21/obama-cites…). How’s that for some good old-fashioned American spirit?

(Bonus Reason): Wouldn’t It Be Cool To Have A Real Life ‘Cory In The House’?

So if you haven’t already, you should get to know Senator Cory Booker. This isn’t the last we’ve heard from him. It’s just the beginning.