Themed  “On The Edge: Determining The Future of American Politics” the event provided students with an opportunity to debate and discuss a variety of issues with their peers and allowed students to articulate how they feel about the current state of our nation and things they would change to improve America. Debates ranged from “Resolved, that the FCC’s media censorship is unconstitutional” to “Thought Talk: Does the Middle Class control the success of the economy,” giving students a wide range of topics and forums in which to voice their opinions.

“The conference exceeded my expectations,” said South Brunswick High School Gabby Desranleau on her first JSA event, “I thought there was more of an opportunity for me to contribute my views on the subjects debated than expected.  I felt comfortable expressing my opinions and it was very interesting to hear what everyone else had to say.”

The keynote address was delivered by Assemblyman of New Jersey’s 17th district and Deputy Speaker Upendra Chivukula.  The Assemblyman talked about what it is like to be involved in state politics and how New Jersey Legislature functions from the inside out.  He informed students of how debating at the professional level compares to and differs from JSA debate, presenting students with a clearer picture of a realm they might wish to enter in a few years.