Governor Campbell Phillips urges delegates to defend democracy in closing address

Governor Campbell Phillips delivered the closing address at the YMCA Youth Legislature’s joint session, thanking his cabinet, advisors and fellow delegates and urging the next generation to take active steps to defend democratic norms.

Phillips cited a recent personal test—running in a major track meet while coming down with a cold—to stress perseverance. “I showed up. I gave it my all,” he said, using the anecdote to encourage delegates not to let fear stop them from participating in public life.

The governor tied that message to civic duty, saying the program’s purpose is more than civics education: it is a training ground for leadership. He warned that sustaining democratic institutions requires moral courage and active effort, and closed by quoting John F. Kennedy: “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.”

Phillips’ remarks followed a series of awards and recognitions and came before the session’s formal announcements and adjournment.