After more than a year of intense campaigning, marked by inspirational speeches and controversial questions concerning his past, America has decided: Barack Obama, the first African-American president, will lead the country for the next four years. After the defeated Arizona senator John McCain delivered a gracious and eloquent concession speech, it seems that on the national stage, the election is completed and done.

However, at Middletown High School, the controversy of Obama’s win is all but dominating nearly every classroom and personal discussion. In fact, the election has been a popular topic at MHS during the final weeks.

The week before the election, MHS students were given the opportunity to participate in a “mock election,” to simulate who would win among participants. The results were overwhelming; 51 percent chose Obama and 39 percent chose McCain.

The 2008 Presidential Election brought out a record number of voter’s, including many young voters. This national occurrence is apparent at MHS, as well, where young students are more politically minded than ever before.

While the vast majority of MHS students were too young to vote, there were a handful of seniors who cast their ballot in this historic election. Senior Sam Bello voted for Obama because, “he brings to the table innovation, inspiration, and new change,” he said. “His political ideologies match mine.”

Senior Bryan Vanek, who also voted in the election, respectfully disagrees. “It’s not why I voted for McCain,” Vanek said, “it’s why I did not vote for Obama. It’s possible he could turn us into a half-democratic, half-socialist society”.

While only a handful of students voted, those unable still hold strong beliefs about the outcome.

“I think it’s awesome we have an African-American president,” said sophomore Rachel Kessler.

Junior Kellen Lamp supports Obama’s victory and said, “he is the change we needed. It can only get better.”

Despite the fact that Obama won the mock election at MHS, McCain supporters are still out in full force.

“I think McCain should have won,” said senior Kat Walker. “Obama lacks the experience needed. Everyone likes him because he’s a powerful speaker.”

Freshman Amy Skees believes that McCain should be the president because she agrees with his stance on abortion. “I’m pro-life, so I don’t agree with Obama being pro-choice.”

Just like in the national election, a number of students remain undecided as to who should have won. Maddie Wilson, a MHS junior, did not have a strong opinion about either candidate.

Senior Andrea Wiles, however, believes that, “as long as there is a good outcome, it doesn’t matter who is president.”