Bob CollinsAnother in a continuing series of profiles of Minnesota delegates to the national political conventions.
Name: Bethany Dorobiala
Party: Republican (Alternate delegate)
Hometown: Woodbury (Now living in Burnsville)
Representing: 6th District
Age: 21 (Youngest in the Minnesota delegation)
Occupation: Student (political science) at the University of Minnesota. Chairman, Minnesota College Republicans. “We have a chapter in almost every campus in the state. We face a lot of struggles with campus administrations and student opinion on campus. Once we put out a positive image of what Republicans stand for, we get a lot of support.”
How she became a delegate: I ran for alternate. I knew that especially this election year, it’s important for youth to be represented as part of this campaign. i wanted to make sure students had a voice. I ran for an at-large alternate position. Sen. Obama hadn’t been announced as a presumptive nominee but it was close, so I knew how important students were going to be in this election.
Political roots: Has always been interested in politics. “I got started in a YMCA program called Youth in Government. It models state government. We had a chance to sit in the halls of the state Capitol and talk about issues students are passionate about.”
“A lot of my values stem from how I raised by my parents but not something that was enforced by them by any means; the values they instilled in me — personal responsibility, fiscal conservatism, taking care of one another — has led me to the Republican Party.”
What she’s most looking forward to at the RNC: I’ve been following the preparations since St. Paul was named the host city. I’m excited to have the party rally here. I’m proud to be able to host the leaders of the party. All the different things going on are exciting to see take shape.”
Favorite book: To Kill a Mockingbird
Favorite movie: An American in Paris.
Favorite music: County. “I like a band called Little Big Town.”
Most influential person. “My mom. She’s an incredibly hard worker and I’ve tried to model my life similar to how she lives her life.”
Bucket list: I want to travel the world. I think Americans don’t value how lucky we are to live in America and the freedoms we’re able to enjoy.”
