In the summer of 2015, I was between my freshman and sophomore years at Hope College. I was studying political science, and I was active in the College Republicans chapter. I always considered myself a close observer of the political news and events of the day, but as the Presidential election cycle kicked into gear this time, I watched with especially great interest. The 2016 election cycle was special to me as it was the first election that I was old enough to vote in.
On June 16, Donald Trump made an announcement from Trump Tower in New York City that he was a candidate for President. By the end of his announcement speech, I was certain: “That’s who I’m voting for.”
Throughout the 2016 Republican primary season, some classmates and I volunteered for the Trump campaign, going door to door and helping to distribute yard signs.
In March 2016, I had the incredible opportunity to attend a Trump rally for the first time in Cadillac, Michigan at the Wexford Civic Center. At that rally, I was able to see firsthand for the first time the full breath of energy and passion of the Trump campaign.
After the election, I was given the unforgettable opportunity to attend President Trump’s Inauguration. I was so excited to see the candidate I had supported be sworn in as President of the United States, and I am proud that President Trump’s 2017 Inauguration would be the first inauguration that I would get to attend.
Under President Trump’s administration, the results were clear: migrant crossings at the Southern Border decreased, federal regulations were slashed, gas prices remained low, and taxes were cut. America took a leadership role in countering China’s influence over 5G technology. President Trump established the U.S. Space Force and selected our state of Alabama as the permanent home for the U.S. Space Command.
With all the challenges thrown his way, President Trump has persevered and emerged even stronger. There were multiple unsuccessful attempts to remove him from the ballot. There were multiple failed assassination attempts against his life. His opponent was swapped out at the last minute, and he is still standing strong.
Tomorrow, polls across the country will open for the 2024 Presidential Election. I am so proud that my very first vote that I ever cast was for Donald J. Trump in the 2016 Republican primary, and I am so proud to be able to vote for Donald J. Trump again tomorrow.
Derek Chen is an Alabama-based attorney and conservative activist. Born in California to Taiwanese immigrants to the United States, he is now a proud resident of Vestavia Hills. He received his JD from Samford University and his MBA from the University of Alabama.
