Jacob Neer on leadership and voting in his first presidential election
meet jacob.
with a very important election coming up that seems to deepen the divide between Americans more and more each day, i wanted to sit down with Jacob to discuss why he is voting, what the act of voting means to him, and perhaps most importantly, what it means to be an American.
although Jacob is about to vote in his first presidential election, he’s been deeply involved in civil service for years - he’s an Eagle Scout, a Vice Chair for the Black Conservative Movement, and is currently studying Business- Economics with a minor in American Government & Politics at Regent University.
Jacob exemplifies the notion that you can make a difference no matter who you are, where you’re at, or how old you are.
after speaking with him, i found myself not only imagining what the world would look like if we all stepped out of our way to help others more often, but inspired to do my part to make it a reality. i hope you are too.
Hi Jacob! To start, what led you to become so involved in civil service and politics?
I have loved history from a young age. To me it is real and exciting. This interest led me to naturally develop an interest in politics. As a book lover, I would read if American Presidents and political leaders making real change. Their stories inspire me to try to improve the world for the better.
Do you have a favorite president?
My favorite President is Lincoln. His steady leadership during our greatest national crisis inspires me. He brought together his enemies for the good of the Nation—and did it successfully. That, and the fact that he was completely self educated make him the best President in my mind.
I agree, 100%. Civil service is a very selfless position to take, although it may sometimes seem more self-serving. It takes a great deal of passion to pursue that as a career. Oftentimes, people get their first taste of government in student council, debate classes, or extracurriculars like that. I saw that you were homeschooled; did that play a role at all in how you got involved?
I was homeschooled. It played a role in the sense that usually homeschoolers are brought up to care about civics—and that was the case with me. It might make us nerds, but I’m thankful for the heavy emphasis on understanding the Constitution, etc. I was very involved with Generation Joshua—which is a youth civics organization of mostly homeschoolers. Through them, I started working on political campaigns at the age of 15. I started by door knocking and phone banking. I also was President at a Generation Joshua summer camp called iGovern—which is an affiliate camp of the Home School Legal Defense association. I ran in a week-long mock election and won.
Wow, that’s awesome. What was the biggest lesson you learned, or a takeaway, from the mock election?
Biggest takeaway is that you can do anything you set your mind to (within reason i.e. doesn't go against the laws of physics). I’m actually more of an introvert than an extrovert, so standing on a stage and debating someone when I had no debate experience in front of 200 people was harrowing. In addition, when I ran, I wasn’t widely known at camp, but I worked really hard for every vote. My opponent was known by almost everyone at camp.
That’s amazing. It goes to show that experience doesn’t necessarily dictate results, and to never underestimate someone. Would you say that your win is therefore a testament more to the platforms you ran on or, although you didn’t have experience, your ability to communicate those platforms? Or something else?
My platform was an important part of the victory no doubt. However, I think the largest factor In my win was my ability to connect one on one with people. I’ve always been smaller physically than many of my peers growing up, so I know what it’s like to not feel like I “fit in.” Although I was rather unknown when I ran, I was still a third year camper, and therefore kind of looked at as “experienced” to the first time campers. I was able to instantly make them feel like they fit in. Being able to connect with and be personable with them was the strongest part of my campaign.
Last summer, you were a part of the iGovern Leadership camp, and met Vice President Pence at the White House through Generation Joshua. What was that like?
That was an absolutely incredible experience. A former Gen J intern who worked in the VP’s office was able to get me and my cabinet a meeting with VP Pence. We met in the Roosevelt room which is only a few feet from the Oval Office. He was only supposed to stay for a couple of minutes for a group photo, but he ended up staying for about half an hour answering our questions, chatting, and giving us advice. Hands down one of the greatest experiences of my life.
What was the best piece of advice he gave you or something he said that still sticks with you to this day?
To stay true to my faith. I’m a Protestant Christian, so him stressing that point meant a lot to me.
Something that is a bit controversial is the role of faith in politics. Not everyone believes the same things, and we live in a world that is quite different from that of our Founding Fathers. Should faith have a role in politics, or should it be separate? And why or why not? Is there a way to include everyone’s faiths in politics if so?
Religion should be separate from government—meaning there should not be an “official” religion for the government. I think what religion should do is influence character. Judaeo-Christian values played an important role in our founders' decisions regarding the formation of our country. Living with honesty, integrity, compassion, and humility are some of the things encouraged by Christianity (among other religions), and I think that it’s a great thing for our country when politicians hold these values.
I agree, and I really admire the way you phrased that. Something else I admire about you is that you are also an eagle scout, which is incredible and a testament to your work ethic and dedication. What was that process like, and what is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned?
I joined the scouts at age 12, and Eagle Scout seemed like something that was out of reach when I first joined. I had an amazing time in the program, and I was active right up until I turned 18 when I got Eagle Scout. It was an amazing opportunity to serve my community at a young age. In addition to the life skills I learned such as cooking, camping, budgeting, teamwork ,etc, I really learned what it meant to be a leader. My first leadership position was at the age of 14 as patrol leader, which is a leader of a group within the troop. It’s definitely a learning experience when you have 20 boys looking to you to lead and plan a camp out or event—without help from adults. However, it truly built my confidence when I discovered that I was able to lead others and make decisions based upon intuition. It definitely helped with my maturity being thrust into a leadership position so young. The journey to Eagle Scout is long, and only about 4% of scouts ever reach it. However, the sense of accomplishment carries on past the achievement. Eagle Scouts have become successful businessmen, astronauts, athletes, and even President of the U.S.A. I had my family and others that helped keep me on track, and my own desire to attain the rank.
You’re right - it’s extremely rare to become an Eagle Scout, and it takes tremendous perseverance. What motivates you to keep going when the path towards one of your goals gets difficult?
For me, motivation comes down to vision. Having a clear vision, and believing that I am capable of achieving that vision.
I try to visualize my goals so that they are so clear that I can almost touch them.
Focusing on my vision is what motivates me. During the hard times, I would picture the end result. That is what kept me going during my journey in scouts, and in life.
I respect you for how dedicated and determined you are, and how you set new goals almost as soon as you achieve one. Thinking about what you’ve done and what you still hope to accomplish, what’s your vision?
Right now, my goal is to be the best student leader that I can be. I’m involved in student government, and college Republicans among other organizations on campus. After I get my undergraduate degree, I would like to go to Law school. I’m trying not to focus on too much beyond that as law school is no easy thing to do and will require great focus.
You’re currently majoring in Business and minoring in American Government & Politics at Regent University. Obviously things are a bit different right now due to the pandemic, but what does a day in your life look like?
My day begins early with a devotion. Then I’ll have breakfast, and will watch the news for an hour or so. Then I will be in classes and attending meetings relating to student government or another club for the day until the evening. Then I will either be studying or will hang out with some friends!
Speaking of meetings, you are the Vice Chair for the Black Conservative Movement. It’s taken me a long time to find my voice in politics, and even so, my views don’t always align with one party across all platforms. And it’s a big decision to recognize what you politically identify with outside of the influence of family, friends, or the media. What do you think?
It’s definitely a big decision. I think it’s important to study both sides and really think for yourself and decide what views align with your values. I have family members that are both liberal and conservative, so it wasn’t an easy choice. However, I also think it’s important to not be so dogmatic that you think your side is ALWAYS right. Though a conservative, I don’t believe conservatives have all the answers, and are wrong sometimes. I’m always willing to listen to the other side.
You bring up a really good point about neither side always being right, and I think more people need to be open to listening, too. It seems like we’re at a time now where people will dismiss someone’s point of view simply for being aligned with one party’s ideals. What is something you wish people knew about the conservative moment/ Republican party, or a stereotype you’d like to push back against?
I think what I’d want to push back against is the stereotype that conservatives want to take us back to the 1800s. It’s about keeping the government small and preserving our constitutional liberties—not holding people back. Most importantly, conservatism is about empowering people to realize their individual potential and letting them know that through hard work, they can do anything in this country.
I agree that hard work is a major testament to success, but do you think there are certain systems at play that give certain individuals or groups advantages over others? If so, how can we (whether it’s what we as individuals can do, or what the government’s role should be) address and fix that?
I think that those systems have definitely existed in the past, and I believe that there are definitely stereotypes in society today. I think the greatest “systemic” problem is the lack of a quality education available in black and brown communities (high quality teachers/curriculum etc). That’s why I support a voucher program for education, which incidentally is supported by conservatives, not democrats. However, I truly believe that in 2020 America, anyone can literally do anything with the right mindset and dedication. I’m reminded of a book that I read called “Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins. He is a black man who has experienced racism. However he spoke of in his book how, although these things like racism exist, they aren’t what hold people back today from achieving their goals.
What really holds people back is the belief that they can’t achieve something. If you don’t believe in yourself, then it is a done deal.
Education truly is so important - not that college is for everyone, but the opportunity to choose that for yourself is something everyone should be able to do. And I love that book, too! It was an incredible read. Last year you worked as a Page in Governor Roy Cooper’s office. We have a presidential election coming up, but there’s so much to be said about state and local governments, and how much they affect our day to day lives, right? And what was it like being a Page?
Yes, education is important, and I’m specifically referring to K-12 in this case. Local and state elections are extraordinarily important—arguably more so than Presidential elections. More change happens at a local and state level than at the federal level. Local and state elections are also a great chance for average citizens to have influence regarding decisions surrounding their communities because often, local candidates are more than happy to meet with constituents and talk about the issues. Working as a Governor’s page was an amazing experience. Governor Cooper was the highest profile politician that I had met at the time, so I reveled in the opportunity. It was a great learning experience as well. I was able to learn of the bureaucracy of government, and how things worked on a state level. I was able to interact with constituents via phone and email and hear their concerns. I was also able to observe the state senate and house in action as well. It was really neat to see all of the behind the scenes work.
That’s incredible. Whether it’s civil service or your work in the scouts, so much of your life so far has been about helping others. What is one thing we can all do to help others, regardless of our differences or limitations (such as financial ability to donate)?
I’ll go generic and say follow the golden rule: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you” - Matthew 7:12 If we all follow this simple principle, and treat others with dignity and respect regardless of our differences, we would have a much better world. This means helping the needy and the poor, lifting up the weak, and striving to better the world every day.
That’s not generic at all! We could all use that reminder, if it’s not already innate to us. That being said, what does service mean to you?
Service means helping others in need, and going where others won’t go. It means leading when able. I have mixed opinions on the historical accuracy of cavemen, but I read something interesting about them awhile back: when cavemen had to explore a new cave to live in, it would be pitch dark inside. One person would have to be the first in, with a torch in hand ready to confront whatever creature was nestled within and to see if the cave would make a good home. Service means being the first person in the cave.
Wow. I love that, and how it mixes leadership in as well, because I think in order to be a good leader, you have to be selfless. Something I ask everyone I interview regardless of industry, goals, upbringing, or past, is this: what is something everyone should know how to do?
Everyone should know how to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. Life is full of challenges and difficult situations, but if we acknowledge and embrace this fact, then there are no limits to what someone can do.
Definitely. And thinking about what you do and what’s coming up, I have to bring up the election. I think this is your first presidential election, which is extra special. Why are you voting?
It is my first presidential election. I am voting because in this country, the citizens can make change if they vote. I’m voting for the ideals that I believe in. I am voting because I believe that my vote and every vote really does matter. I’m voting because it is a privilege. Most importantly, I’m voting because many gave their lives to protect or better our nation, and voting moves us closer to that “more perfect union” that so many gave their lives for.
I’ve grown up learning about the privilege of using your voice, and how much power one vote has. You touched on the fact that people have sacrificed their lives for our ability to vote and speak up about what we believe in. Some people question whether their vote counts - would you agree that every single vote matters and makes a difference?
Absolutely! So many elections have come down to the wire. Here in Virginia, control of the legislative bodies between the Republicans and Democrats was decided by a coin toss because the vote was tied—and the Republicans won the toss. Imagine if one more democrat had voted that day. In the 2000 election, the Presidency was decided by a couple hundred votes out of over one hundred million votes cast. Voting can make a difference. Even if you are a Republican in California or a Democrat in West Virginia, voting still matters because it’s a right that isn’t enjoyed by many around the world. Every citizen should vote— it’s one of the most important rights as a citizen.
Regardless of the results in November, what would you say to all Americans in a post-election country?
That we are all on the same team. Elections are intramural scrimmages, and we can’t lose that mindset. At the end of the day, we all need to come together for the good of our nation and to be the shining city on the hill for the rest of the world.
Earlier you mentioned that you have family members that align with liberal and conservative views, and I’m sure that even though you disagree politically, you’re able to appreciate and support each other still. I personally believe the media plays a role in this, but it seems like political divisions are dividing the country more than they ever have before. Many people would argue that everything goes back to politics, so you can’t not be political, or it’s an exercise of privilege to play that card. And yet, looking back on times like 9/11 that brought the country together as Americans, I’m not sure how likely such unity is to happen again. Thinking about how divided things seem to be now, can we agree to disagree? Can Americans come together again?
I think we can, but it’s going to require an event as a catalyst to bring us together. 9/11 comes to mind. Obama’s election was also a time that I believe that Americans looked at one another as brothers and sisters and not enemies (I think he squandered a good chance to unify us). However, I don’t think we will always agree—we never have. Even from the beginning of our nation there have been divisions, and that’s okay. Debate is necessary to move our country forward. However, what I think we should hope for is that people learn to respect one another regardless of political beliefs. Like my family does.
You’re right. I think it will take empathy and not only a willingness, but a desire from everyone. Lastly, what does it mean to be an American?
Being an American means believing in and fighting for human freedom and Liberty.
We are the greatest country the world has ever seen, and although we haven’t always lived up to our founding documents I truly believe we will get there one day. We are the land of freedom and opportunity, and I hope all Americans realize this, and take advantage of their unique rights.
seven questions with jacob neer:
I can’t go a day without… a cup of coffee!
Everyone should read… Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins.
Life is better with a little… hike in nature on a clear day.
Everyone in their 20s should… work on discovering who they are inside. There fears, insecurities, childhood experiences, etc.
One insider thing to do in Virginia Beach… the obvious answer is go to the beach. However, more broad, I would say to explore the city and specifically its ties to the military. We have a huge military presence due to the Naval bases around.
What the world needs right now is… unity.
One way to spread love is… to do something for someone without expecting anything in return.
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Photo courtesy of Jacob Neer.