CAMPTON, Ky. (WYMT) – Jake Denniston, who is only 18 years old, is running for Campton City Council this election. He won the seat, garnering the most votes, making him the vice mayor-elect.

After graduating from Wolfe County High School in May, he decided to take a year off between high school and college to gain real-world experience by running for local government.

“I thought, ‘What better experience to win in politics than to run for office and try to go out and see what people are really like instead of learning it from a textbook,’” Denniston said.

Denniston’s campaign proved successful, as he became elected vice mayor of his hometown. He received the most votes among City Council candidates. Denniston said he is honored to serve his community in this new way.

“That’s what I call it, it’s a job interview,” Denniston said. “People show up for you. If you deserve the job, you will get it.”

Former Denniston High School Principal Greg Creech said he has always been a hard worker and loves politics.

“Jake was one of those students who always worked very hard to improve. “He was always very forthright,” Creech said. “Always in Frankfort talking to legislators, always talking to community leaders, always talking to state leaders. He was very frank. “I really enjoyed politics.”

In terms of the future, Denniston doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon.

“I don’t have any personal limits for myself. I would like to go as far as I can and do as much good as I can for people. But that depends on them, it doesn’t depend on me. But I have no limit. I love politics and I would love for it to be possible in any position,” Denniston said.

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