Wagoner High School Senior Elected President Of Boys Nation Summer Program In Washington D.C.

The American Legion is holding its annual Boys Nation summer program in Washington D.C. 

Morgan Johnson, Wagoner High School senior was named president of the leadership camp. 

Johnson didn't think he'd be interested in a career in politics until he participated in Boys Nation. 

"I really would not be opposed to attempting to serve in state or federal legislature, and try to make a real difference in the policy we create and the impact we have on Americans," Johnson said.

While Boys State focuses on state government, Boys Nation takes a look at the role of the federal government.

Johnson was one of two boys selected from Oklahoma to go to Washington D.C. 

The representatives from each state are split into two nonpartisan political parties. They elect party chairs, hold elections and do mock debates.

"It's a really, really engaging experience that immerses you in the entire political sphere on the national level," Johnson said.

Johnson was elected President of Boys Nation. He says he's the first from Oklahoma since 1995. 

While being elected was an honor, he says one of his favorite parts of the week was touring the National Mall, especially the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. 

"I was talking with my grandfather and I found a couple of names of people that he served with and that stuff really sombers the event and makes you think what it means to be an American," Johnson said.

He says the friends he's made through this program will be his friends for life, and this is an experience he will never forget. 

"The ability to be here and do all of these things and see such integral parts of American history, it's really just the highlight of the American dream, anybody can go anywhere if you have the will and have the heart to try and go for it," Johnson said.

Johnson says he plans to study history and political science in college and hopes to attend law school.