Upon seeing me on television during the CNN Republican primary debate Sept. 16, my family and friends bombarded me with questions about whether the stage was really that hot, as all of the candidates seemed to be sweating. While I affirmed their assumptions as to the extreme heat, the room temperature was not the most important part of my experience.

At the GOP debate in Simi Valley at the Reagan Library, not only did I sit in the second row during the 5 pm event for the bottom four candidates in polls, but the former governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger, sat next to me in the audience for a few minutes. 

Both during the breaks and at the conclusion of the debate, I was able to engage with the candidates. More specifically, I was given a brief opportunity to speak with Ted Cruz, Mike Huckabee, Rand Paul, Rick Santorum, Bobby Jindal, George Pataki and Marco Rubio. Likewise, I was able to meet and network with many powerful people who were the heads of newspapers and close associates of the candidates. Surrounded by such distinguished individuals, I felt blessed to be in that position. 

As expected, there was much commotion and few commercial breaks throughout the debate, which inhibited me from diving into deep political exchanges with the candidates. My interactions consisted mostly of a quick photo and an exchange of a few words like, “We appreciate your support for Israel, Senator.”

Still, the stage was relatively small, with only 100 to 200 people in attendance. Therefore, I was able to see the candidates and talk to them during commercial breaks. While I looked forward to seeing all of the candidates, I was most excited to see Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida. Ever since I met him last year at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and heard he might run for president, I have been an avid supporter. Although I do not agree with all of his polices, his stances on immigration policy, Israel, taxes, and overall foreign policy align with that of my own. These encompass my core issues. Therefore, Rubio’s vision for “The New American Century” is one that I support. 

After the debate, I was able to meet Sen. Rubio and tell him. Looking me straight in the eye, with a sincere smile on his face, he said he was very appreciative and proud that a young American Jew was so passionate about his campaign. This display of encouragement made me feel like I had made a difference, and that my voice mattered. I felt honored that a young 17-year-old girl, too young to even vote, was able to tell a presidential candidate that his support of Israel was vital. At the end of our brief conversation, he gave me the mug that he used during the debate, and I now keep it in my room.

I was also able to speak with to the son of Dr. Ben Carson, Rhoeyce Carson. He seemed kind and very open to discussion. My father and I once again brought up the issue of Israel, and emphasized that his father’s support to Israel is both vital and appreciated. My father also talked to the young man about the medical field. 

While I am reluctant to discuss Donald Trump, his presence was definitely felt throughout the debate. The audience seemed to believe that Trump was both talented and knowledgeable. This may be partially due to the fact that Trump is provocative, as the debate consisted of three hours of policy discussion, and Trump brought a light energy.  He made the three hours bearable, for both people watching at home and those in attendance. He also received far more press than any other candidate at the debate. 

I do not see him as a viable candidate, and I believe that he is making a mockery of our political system and drawing undue attention towards himself. But there was some benefit to Trump’s presence, as this was the most watched debate in CNN history, and I think Trump played a great part in that.  

All in all, attending the debate was an incredible experience. I was able to see the initial phase of American electoral system at work by witnessing a live presidential debate, talking to candidates and discussing issues with important people. Collectively, this was the best night of my life, despite the heat radiating off of the stage.