The newest wave of the elections throughout New York State was a cause for celebration for some, and great concern for others. No matter the reaction, the unprecedented level of engagement and dedication from newly elected candidates is the reason why we should be truly hopeful. However, there is a serious problem under the surface of the electoral results: the major underrepresentation of younger participants in leadership. This is not simply a demographic problem; it is a big issue that threatens our communities in the future.

Witnessing the political talk between citizens was demoralizing during this election cycle. The pervasive and persistent message of “Only vote the Democrat line” or “If you’re not Republican, then you’re wrong” narrative from citizens and leaders alike creates distrust, and therefore resentment.

Such a binary, zero-sum approach to government is historic and has been contributing to the ascending movements of the “Far-left” and “Far-right” communities that disallow effective, collaborative problem-solving. It is a story that breaks the heart of any young person devoted to their community without adherence to a version of nationalized political dogma.

Our younger generation, from my experience, looks at politics (especially local) through an entirely different lens. We care less about rigid party loyalty than we do about policy and practical outcomes. The catch is that the forward-thinking, practical perspective remains largely unheard in the rooms where decisions are being made. The figures are jarring and depict the scale of the problems. The average age at the state level in the New York State Legislature is about 53. Only about 20 of 213 seats in the Senate and Assembly are held by people under 35. This age gap is not benign; it has direct implications and impacts. The people who are 40 or younger are the most affected by the long-term decisions that are shaping our country today and the decisions that are being made locally. They’re the ones tackling the challenges of establishing a career, raising small children, navigating the long-term effects of local tax decisions and inheriting crumbling infrastructure and fiscal plans set by previous generations. The average age of a governing body is over a decade more than the average resident, and their outlook on mortgages, job stability and generational debt is not tied to the distant future. This leaves a gap in view that only younger generations can fill.

There is great cause for hope in my experience. Based on the character of our generation’s political involvement. We are already raising the bar for public life. The younger generation, far from the advocacy and word-of-mouth approach, seems focused on understanding not perception but policy. We ask for the answers, analyze the data and require a complete picture using modern tools, not taking quick summaries from major news networks that we distrust greatly. Furthermore, we are re-instating a commitment to public discourse. I, as an Independent, have felt the wrath and anger arising from accusations and refusal to be a pawn in the well-worn political chess session, yet it’s that sort of anger which seldom comes from my generation or younger. I have sat with young people across the political spectrum, having passionately debated local and national policy issues. Only to conclude dialogue with mutual respect and trust, not a need for agreement. We need to have that kind of insatiable desire to listen and understand other’s points of view, instead of simply throwing the whole thing out because it is counter to the national political party narrative.

This faith in ideas rather than ideology is our way back to the middle and the fulfillment of the basic necessities of villages and towns. We are stewards of the people; our communities are the bedrock of governance, and it is time for young people to take the leadership positions. We need to remember that we aren’t only inheriting the consequences of these decisions; we’re the best-poised generation to make them. We offer the new perspectives, technological proficiency and the dedication to civil and practical discussion that is an urgent need. It’s in need of more voices that scream for change, who stand up and serve. It is a highly rewarding effort when done with the commitment of honor and the interest of community.

Our generation of voters values the right kind of thinking and morality above a political party system that is broken by its own morality and commitment.

The message is loud: We are living in need of change, and our younger generation needs to be part of driving that change. Step up, run for office and voice your vote. Your community’s future relies on it.

Sean Ryan is a resident of Saranac Lake