Since January, Weekly Reader teen and kid reporters have been on the campaign trail. This team of hard-hitting, assertive young journalists represents a cross-section of the country. So far this year -- the roving reporters have landed big interviews including First Lady Laura Bush, Teresa Heinz Kerry, Former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani, and ABC News Anchor Peter Jennings.
This week, 14 year old Micaela caught up with Cate Edwards, the 22 year old daughter of Senator John Edwards to find out what it's like when your dad runs for vice-president.
Micaela's exclusive interview can be seen on Teen Kids News, a nationally syndicated program which is now seen on 217 stations nationwide and in 178 countries. Weekly Reader is the educational partner of Teen Kids News.
Meanwhile, teens nationwide have eagerly volunteered for homework assignment and the chance to share their opinions on the Bush/Kerry and Cheney/Edwards showdowns.
"Senator John Kerry did a better job in the first debate," said Rashad from New York. "Going into the debate I honestly thought President Bush would do better because he had a lead in the polls, which takes the pressure off."
"I believe Vice President Cheney did a better job, because he seemed smarter and knew more about all of the issues," said Staci from Indiana. "I also thought Senator Edwards had problems answering the questions the way they were asked to him."
While students debated about the debates, they found common ground on some of the issues. When given four choices, Weekly Reader teen reporters said terrorism remains the most important issue. The majority also commented that they preferred the format at the vice presidential debate, in which the candidates were seated.
Is there anything the teens would change in the next presidential debate? Many students said the debates seem too controlled, and they would like to incorporate sections where the candidates ask each other questions. Student reporters also said they would like a device that can check the facts instantly.
"When a candidate states a fact, and then the other guy refutes it, there should be an instant way to figure out who is right," said 14 year old Gil John Newman of New York City. "John Edwards gave a number about job losses, and the VP said it wasn't true. Who do we believe?"
Meanwhile, the most challenging assignment for the roving reporters lies in the weeks ahead: trying to determine who will be elected president. But the teen reporters will have some help from the millions of students who are expected to cast a vote in the Weekly Reader presidential poll. Students can vote online or by calling toll-free 1-888-964-2904. Since 1956, students in grades 1 through 12 who participated in the Weekly Reader national poll have correctly chosen the winner of the every presidential race. This year's results will be announced the week of October 25.
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