[guest name="Stefano Rivolta" biography="Stefano Rivolta is a student-intern in the International Information Programs for the U.S. State Department in Washington, D.C. He loves to travel, and weather permitting, he’s out doors long-boarding, playing basketball, or hiking. When it’s raining, he’s either strumming his guitar, reading, or attempting to cook ethnic foods."]

Young people from all over the United States (and the world!) come to Washington to gain valuable experience working for Congress, the federal government, law offices, lobbying firms, international organizations and non-profits. America.gov had its own group of summer interns, and we thought it would be fun to feature their thoughts on democracy here on By the People:

All my life, I sort of viewed politics as a bone-dry topic for boring grownups to talk about during their get-togethers. Now, at 21, I have a totally different take on it. Perhaps it’s because this past election was one of the most celebrated, star-studded, hot political events ever.

When it comes to politics, everyone has something to say. This past U.S. presidential election was my very first chance to vote legally as an American and I, of course, wanted to be able to say something too. So, I began surfing the net, watching news coverage and listening to the radio to learn more about the candidates, Senators John McCain and Barack Obama. In doing so, I also learned about the U.S. government’s structure, its history, the difference in political parties, and election procedures.

I saw a lot of celebrity involvement. This was a bit weird for me: It felt like a fusion of the cool, teen and young adult world mashing up with the calm, big-word-filled world of maturity.

When you see one of your favorite musicians who’s been off the radar for about a decade suddenly reappear on television you’re thinking: comeback?! You turn up the volume only to find out he’s talking about the same stuff your parents did back when you were buying his CDs. This is strange; you’re used to listening to your favorite musician sing about emotion and expression, topics that make him cool! Now he’s discussing energy and the economy, topics that make him … a grown-up.

My question is this: Is it appropriate for celebrities to become a political voice during election times?

Also, do celebrities get involved in politics in your country? Would you still buy a celebrity’s movies, records, or books after you find out he or she is against whatever issue you might favor?