Rock the Vote hikes political interests

The poor weather conditions last Thursday did not effect the large student turnout at Rock the Vote.

The event was originally planned to take place on Front Campus but the looming clouds forced it to relocate to the porch of Parks Hall.

Students flocked to the voter registration table. Ashley Foster, a member of Law and Society Student Organization (L.A.S.S.O) assisted students with their questions. She estimated that approximately 100 students registered to vote. She also said that at least 150 absentee ballots were distributed.

The College Republicans and Young Democrats were also on hand to inform students about their organizations. Both clubs had information pertaining to their respective candidates.

“Anytime both sides come together to increase awareness it is good for the country,” Brad Spier a representative of Young Democrats said.

Josh Martin the executive director of the College Republicans believes Rock the Vote will benefit his organization.

“Rock the Vote is good because Georgia College is a conservative campus. We hope by getting more students registered more republicans will vote this fall,” he said.

The Secretary of State Office sent representatives to familiarize students with the electronic voting machines Georgia will use in the upcoming elections.

“I am thrilled with the number of students who tried out the voting machine. Students seem to be excited about the elections this fall,” said Alison McCullie, from the Secretary of State office.

Shalynda Warren added, “If 18- to 24- year-olds turn out in record numbers it could impact votes. I believe that the young voters hold the key to this election in their hands.”

A good indication that students are taking voting seriously is the Student Government elections. The election began Thursday and carried on through Friday afternoon.

A good indication that students are taking voting seriously is the Student Government elections. The election began Thursday and carried on through Friday afternoon. Many students participated and displayed their “Georgia Voter” peach sticker.

Students were asked to give their opinion about the 2004 Presidential election.

Curtis Isenberg a sophomore majoring in education has a unique view of the election.

“Young people care about the election but are ill advised,” he said, “Voting has become a popularity contest.”

Most students believe that events such as Rock the Vote will increase the number of young people who vote this year.

“Hopefully Rock the Vote will accurately inform students of the candidates and prove to them that their votes are extremely important this year and in all future elections,” said Pamela Johnson a sophomore.

Daniel Siebel, secretary of L.A.S.S.O said the event was a success.

“I think Rock the Vote went great. We constantly hear about the low voter turn out among young adults and lack of interest in our politics and government in general,” he said. “It was awesome to see so many students excited about voting and excited about letting their voices be heard in their community, their state, their country. I feel privileged to be a part of something like this.”

Posted by Colonnade Archives on Sep 10 2004. Filed under News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry