America ReFramed Season 9 Episode 9 Kid Candidate

Kid Candidate is a compelling documentary in which we meet a remarkable middle-school student, Sam, who decides he wants to run for student council president in his suburban Texas school. No matter where one stands in the political spectrum, it’s hard not to be impressed by Sam Johnson’s passion and determination. From the very beginning, he stands out as a serious, driven candidate who is willing to work hard to achieve his goals.

The documentary, directed by Jasmine Stodel, follows Sam’s charismatic and candid journey as he navigates the twists and turns of a grueling election, with a backdrop of modern-day politics in the United States. In his campaign, he proposes traditional policy proposals, such as bringing back pizza to the cafeteria, but also more controversial ones, including advocating for changes to school security measures in the aftermath of recent mass shootings.

Whether landing a coveted endorsement, canvassing for votes, or debating his opponents, Sam’s drive and commitment to the process is astonishing. His youthful spirit engages both his peers and local politicians he encounters on the campaign trail. His likability and articulateness are evident when he debates his opponents in front of the school.

However, the road to victory is far from easy. Sam is up against two other formidable candidates who are popular and despise him on sight. In addition, the filmmakers reveal Sam's colorful backstory, including his family life with his grandmother’s influence after his mother left them.

Throughout the documentary, it’s impossible not to admire Sam’s determination, self-belief, and unwavering dedication to the race. His campaign may be small, but his ambitions and efforts are anything but. He is truly driven and admirable and this documentary is a testament to how even the youngest voices can become more prominent in today’s political climate.

The documentary also highlights the differing opinions about active politics from educators, parents, and activists on the national stage. In particular, we see a prevailing theme of the importance of cultivating young leaders for the advancement of the future.

Kid Candidate is both endearing and disquieting, as we witness Sam’s growth, frustration, and heartbreak alongside the reality of the American school system. We see how far he is willing to go in order to realize his ambitions, how much he wants to be taken seriously, and how hard it is for him to do so. While his journey is a testament to the resilience of youth, we see the struggles they must also endure.

Overall, this is a fantastic documentary that showcases what can happen when one person is determined to create change. Through Sam’s journey, we learn the importance of developing the next generation of leaders and how these future leaders are the catalysts of positive change for the good of all people. This journey of Sam's reminds us that though we may be small, that doesn't mean we cannot make a difference.