Dean Roy, a 14-year-old student at Stowe High School in Vermont, has officially entered the race for governor, becoming the youngest candidate ever to appear on the state’s general election ballot.
Vermont is one of the few U.S. states with no minimum age requirement for gubernatorial candidates, requiring only four years of state residency. Last year, Roy gained political experience serving as a legislative page at the Vermont Statehouse, a role that helped shape his early interest in politics.
To run, Roy created his own political platform, the Freedom and Unity Party. He describes his campaign as a movement to encourage more young people to engage in politics. “I don’t necessarily expect to win,” Roy said. “But I hope to inspire other young people to say, ‘We want to make change too.’”
Despite his enthusiasm, some experts remain cautious about his chances. Peter Teachout, a law professor at Vermont Law and Graduate School, noted that while the constitution imposes no age limit for candidates, voter eligibility begins at 18. “In theory, even a 4-year-old could run,” Teachout said. “But Vermonters are unlikely to support someone so young in practice.”
Roy acknowledges the challenges but remains undeterred. “It may seem surprising that a 14-year-old is running for governor, but look at the current leaders, things aren’t working as they should,” he said in a campaign post on social media.
His candidacy highlights Vermont’s unique approach to political participation and could encourage greater involvement among younger generations in shaping the state’s future.
