The Benjamin debates were alive with fiery orators and great exchanges about relevant domestic and foreign policy on October 17. WPTV News reporter Tory Dunnan asked thoughtful and important follow-up questions that truly put the two teams to the test. Likewise, students in all grades were focused with laser precision on the process as they took in-depth notes about what each party thought was best for the country.

The Neersyde is proud to have the honor of announcing the winner of the debates. This decision took several days as a team of faculty had to come together and confer about the relative merits of each side’s performance, considering the substance and style of debaters’ delivery.

While each team acquitted themselves masterfully and thoroughly, it was the consensus of the faculty committee that the Republican side were the victors.

The Neersyde wishes to congratulate each side on the great debate and thank them for all the time they put into preparing. The Republican party was represented by Demi den Bakker, Grace Kearns, Ella Pierman, Camilio Saiz, Carter Stewart, and Shang Wang. Representing the Democratic party was Sadie Burns, John Vincent Janin, Andrew McDonough, Michelle Pfeifer, and Emeline Smith. Without their performances, The Benjamin Middle School students would not be as ready as they now are to cast a responsible and informed vote in our mock election next week.

All debaters will be invited by Mr. Hagy to a post-debate lunch next week at which they will discuss their performances and debrief about the debate.