From Mitt's Hometown, a Young Democrat Heads to Washington

Daniel Vernick is someone local Democrats see as one of their next leaders.

Now if he only could vote.

The Belmont Democratic Town Committee voted last month to cover the registration fee for the 10th grade high schooler to attend the Young Democrats of America’s High School Leadership Academy in Washington this summer.

Daniel, a sophomore at Belmont High School, was one of only 48 high school students from across the country selected to attend the four-day summer camp that will focus on developing the next generation of Democratic Party leaders. 

Attendees will participate in leadership workshops and policy panels and be introduced to the nation's top Democratic elected officials and Party leaders. The YDA will provide an inside view of elections, the media, campaign finance, grassroots organizing, interest groups, the legislative process and careers in politics.  

Daniel has worked on a variety of campaigns in Belmont, including the 2012 Selectman candidancy of Dan Scharfman. 

"He’s committed, clear, asks good and penetrating questions. He’s also versatile – whether it’s the simple but critical stuff like holding signs on cold days, or more complex tasks like writing a strong letter to the editor, Daniel is always ready to volunteer and always follows through on his promises," said Scharfman.