Despite his age, UNC student Matt Hughes has shown the Orange County Democratic Party he is the man for the job.
Hughes, a North Carolina Teaching Fellow and political science major, was elected as the Orange County Democratic Party chairman Monday.
And many think his young perspective will be an advantage.
“He has enough talent to make up for what he doesn’t have in experience,” said David Caldwell, second vice-chairman of the party.
Hughes, who is only 21 years old, said he has been involved in politics for essentially all of his adult life.
He said his political career started when he founded a chapter of the Young Democrats of America at his high school.
“Politics has always interested me,” he said. “I wanted to advance the ideals of the Democratic Party, and taking on leadership roles is one way.”
This will be Hughes’ fourth elected position in the Democratic Party over the last three years, in addition to holding various state and congressional positions.
He said because of this experience, he doesn’t think it will be hard to adjust to his new role.