After working as a page in the U.S. Senate this summer, Reagan Kaleta has a message for all Americans who love their country but have grown cynical about politics.
“One of the big takeaways I had was how much bipartisan work is happening in our government,” said Kaleta, a rising junior at Bishop Ireton High School in Alexandria. “I feel like that is not represented and talked about enough. Good things are happening in politics, and it gives me a lot of hope.”
The coveted job role of a U.S. Senate page is an immersion in the political process. Candidates must be sponsored by a senator but the job is nonpartisan. Pages work as messengers and do-it-all helpers who assist staffers and senators preparing for speeches and other tasks. Conspicuous in their blue blazers, erect posture and skilled in formal decorum, they are ambassadors of sorts representing the U.S. government.
“I learned a lot about respect and professionalism and to always treat people with respect,” said Kaleta. “People were watching us all the time and I learned the value of being professional, always shaking people’s hands and having good manners.”
It was a natural step for Kaleta, who got her first taste in politics as a 4-year-old, tagging along with her mother who served as a chief of staff for a member of the U.S. House of Representatives.
“My entire life I have loved politics and I follow it closely,” said Kaleta. “To watch our lawmakers in action was just amazing. It really makes me want to go into politics. I got to meet a lot of really fine people who were also pages. We just all nerded out together over politics all day long.”
“In our house, we’ve always loved election day and we view the government in a very positive way,” said Reagan’s mother, Jen Daulby. “We’re very proud to be Americans and to live in Washington, D.C. When you put a face with a name and get to know people who are working hard on behalf of the American people, it’s not what people always think. It’s been a positive experience for Reagan.”
In an age of bitter partisan divides, Reagan, and her parents, remain optimistic.
“It’s been refreshing to hear about all the interactions Reagan had with pages representing diverse political views,” said Ed Kaleta, Reagan’s father. “To be able to discuss politics rationally and respectfully with one another is important. If only some of those currently running for political office could learn from these young adults.”
Reagan, who attended the Cathedral of St. Thomas More School in Arlington from pre-K through 8th grade, has no qualms about announcing her intention to become a politician and why she wants to serve.
“My faith is why I want to go into politics,” she said. “I want to change laws for the better and I want to implement Catholic teaching into the law and the ways of Christ. I wore my cross every single day on that Senate floor with pride and knowing that our government was doing good things.”
Hale can be reached at [email protected]
