Democratic candidate Maxwell Alejandro Frost became the first member of Generation Z elected for a seat in the United States Congress.
The 25-year-old Afro-American snatched a Congressional seat after defeating Republican Calvin Wimbish, 72, in Florida’s 10th Congressional District. According to Frost, when he won the race, United States President Joe Biden personally called him to extend his congratulations to the young politician. In addition, the two talked about how monumental the feat represents, considering Frost’s age. The US president entered the political sphere and won a Senate seat at 29.
“He asked me if it was the same situation. I said, ‘No, Mr. President, you had me beat on that. I’m already old enough to be sworn in on January 3.’ So, it was great to talk with him. You know, he was elected at a very young age, too, so he understands that experience,” Frost said.
The representative-elect focused his campaign on fighting against gun violence. This made waves among the citizens of Florida following a slew of mass shootings happening across the country. In an interview, Frost said he vows to pass the universal background check bill as a countermeasure against reckless gun sales.
In a Tweet, he wrote, “WE WON! We made history for Floridians, for Gen Z, and for everyone who believes we deserve a better future. I am beyond thankful for the opportunity to represent my home in the United States Congress.”
Read Also: Elon Musk says Twitter will Resume Blue Check Subscription After Midterm Polls
Frost makes history
On average, people aged 58 are the ones who run for a significant public office. According to federal laws, one must be at least 25 years old to run for the US House, 30 for the US Senate, and 35 for the presidential race. While Frost stands at the start of the line, he manages to win a seat and make history for the GenZs. Pew Research Center defines GenZ as people born from 1997 to 2012.
And while the law permits 25-year-olds to run for the House of Representatives, only a few choose that path. For many, running at a younger age means more challenges up ahead. However, Frost defied all odds and risked his chances. More than his age, Frost represents the Afro-Cuban community, as his election makes him the first community member elected in Congress.
Read Also: Black Voters Should be Encouraged to Vote says Experts
A passion for serving
Frost, born on January 17, 1997, grew up witnessing abuse and violence. His mother is Puerto Rican, while his father comes from Haiti.
He said, his community became “ravaged by gun violence. And I’ve experienced how working people and people of color are unjustly marginalized and left behind in our society.”
His past compelled him to fight against gun violence as he grew up. After the mass shooting in Newtown, Connecticut, Frost became a gun control activist. When Barack Obama ran for the presidency in 2012, he actively participated in his campaign. He serves for March for Our Lives as national organizing director.
Over the years, he earned respect and support of many politicians like Senators Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, Ed Markey, and Rev Jesse Jackson. He also received the support of the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
Photo Credit: Stephen M. Dowell
Source: CNBC
