Hillary Clinton interacts with the people of Keene

I do not want this piece to delve deep into my political views, but I’ve always been a fan of Hillary Clinton. I believe that she has the experience and temperament to navigate the complexities of Washington, D.C. and will do her best at getting things done.

My experience at the Hillary Clinton Town Hall Event at Keene State College in the Mabel Brown Room on Friday October 16, confirmed my support and confidence in Clinton.

Prior to the event, my mind was swarming with excitement. I was about to see one of my biggest inspirations in person and get to hear her talk about some of the most pressing issues our country and world are currently facing. Having the opportunity to see a presidential candidate in person is always a special moment to treasure.

The first thought that came to my mind as my friend Amanda and I sat down at our seats for the event was how intimate the room felt. I quickly realized that I would be up close and personal to our potential first woman President.

The room was swarming with excitement and high expectations for Clinton. When she walked into the room the energy in the auditorium was pulsing with support and positivity. We [the students] were all so excited to have such an icon in our presence.

Photo by: roger weeks / equinox staff

Photo by: roger weeks / equinox staff

Clinton covered many topics, but the most prevalent discussed were her stances on making college more affordable and gun control policy.

I thought both of these issues were very appropriate to be discussed at a college campus and Clinton knew that. She was greeted with what seemed like an incredible support for her policy ideas by the audience.

After the town hall had ended, I noticed that she was shaking hands and taking selfies with her supporters at the front of the room.

Naturally, I freaked out and ran toward the gate to get my chance to meet her. Time seemed to slow down the closer I got to her, and

when it was finally my turn to meet her I was shocked by how intimate the moment was.

She looked directly into my eyes and gave me all of her attention. I would like to say that I had an intelligent and witty question or comment ready, but in the moment I practically blacked out and couldn’t remember what I had prepared.

I was completely star struck and, despite the adrenaline rush I was experiencing, also felt comfortable in her presence.

Naturally, I had to compliment her on how amazing her hair looked. Clinton is very well known for her evolving hair styles, but I was pleased to see that she reverted to her most well-known short cut.

No grey hairs could be seen and her blonde locks fell in all of the right places.

She responded with a delighted gasp and by addressing me as “the sweetest little dear.” I then asked her if I could give her a hug and she said of course! I gave her a hug, thanked her so much for coming to Keene and snapped a selfie with her.

I left the Town Hall on cloud nine and was relieved that Clinton was everything I had hoped she would be. She was kind, soft and strong all at the same time: all qualities that I think we need in a leader and future president of the United States.

I was able to see firsthand, through some of her answers to questions given by the audience, how calm and rational she is in response to complex situations.   

I am so blessed that I was given the opportunity to meet Hillary Clinton. After my experience I am very confident that she is the Candidate that will win the campaign.

Not only does she have the experience and knowledge needed to create change, she has the citizens’ best interest in mind.

Roger Weeks can be contacted at rweeks@kscequinox.com