The Spokane County Republican Party is excited to announce our annual Lincoln Day Speech Contest and invite passionate young people, ages 14-22, to participate.
This year’s speech topic:
“The Consent of the Governed Is Not Theoretical—It’s Fundamental”
Historical background of the speech topic:
The phrase “consent of the governed” is not a lofty abstraction tucked into the pages of history—it is the bedrock of American democracy.
When the Founders declared independence in 1776, they asserted that governments derive “their just powers from the consent of the governed,” establishing a radical departure from monarchies and authoritarian rule.
This principle is not merely philosophical; it is operational. It defines how laws are made, how leaders are chosen, and how legitimacy is sustained.
Without consent, government becomes coercion. Consent is expressed through voting, civic engagement, and public discourse. It is renewed with every election, challenged through protest, and protected by the Constitution. The rule of law, separation of powers, and individual rights all hinge on this foundational idea.
To treat consent as theoretical is to risk erosion of liberty. When citizens disengage, power consolidates. When voices are silenced, legitimacy fades.
The consent of the governed is not a passive inheritance—it is an active duty. It demands participation, vigilance, and accountability. In a republic, freedom is not self-sustaining. It must be affirmed by the people. That affirmation is not optional—it is fundamental.
Speech Contest Information and Format:
The speech contest is open to high school and college aged students and young men and women pursuing a trade in an apprenticeship, on the job training, or similar program and are between the age of 14 and 22 years.
Research the topic from the perspective of our “Founder’s Intent” and create a 3-minute video of you presenting your speech highlighting a key point or points from your research, why the Founders believed it was important, why you believe it remains important today, how you will do your part to carry forward this critical “Freedom’s Framework” civic duty, and the impact it will have on our community.
Submit a video of you presenting your speech before February 14, 2026.
The top-3 finalists will be selected to deliver their speech live at the Lincoln Day Gala, Saturday March 21, 2026, 5:00 to 9:00 pm
The Lincoln Day Speech Contest Committee will evaluate the entries based on the following criteria:
- Content (structure, originality, clarity)
- Delivery (confidence, enthusiasm, presence)
- Language (grammar, vocabulary, articulation)
- Engagement (storytelling, humor, connection with the audience)
The Committee will select three (3) finalists who will present their speech at the Spokane County Republican Party Lincoln Day Gala March 21, 2026.
Contestants will be notified of the results no later than February 22, 2026.
The Lincoln Day audience will vote to determine 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners
Cash prizes are as follows:
1st Place Winner - $1,500
2nd Place Winner - $1,000
3rd Place Winner - $500
5. Finalists must be able to attend the Lincoln Day Gala March 21, 2026.
6. Each finalist will receive a VIP ticket to the event and discounted VIP and General Admission tickets will be available for family members and friends.
How to Apply:
- Click on this link: "Lincoln Day Speech Contest", complete the submission form, attach the video file with your speech presentation.
For more information or if you have questions contact:
- Morna Gilbert, Lincoln Day Speech Committee Chair, Morna6064@pm.me
