Periscope

Issue date: 9/29/08 Section: News

Media Credit: Hannah Orr College Republicans make a statement in the Fitton Student Union. This sign is hanging in a central location to remind students of the importance of political activism.

What do elephants, donkeys and the lack of available gasoline in America have in common?

The 2008 presidential election.

It is that time again: the time that we only experience every four years when America elects a new president.

This year, Shorter College is already greatly involved in the political process.

Shorter College Young Republicans and the Shorter College Young Democrats assembled politically minded students.

Both organizations have had recent meetings in order to distribute materials supporting their candidates and plan activities for the upcoming month until the election.

Also, each group held voter registration drives, encouraging students to get involved and make their voices be heard. These drives have been held during lunch in the Austin Moses room.

According to junior Corey Colbert, applications for absentee ballots have also been handed out.

Sophomore David Dockery said, "I thought it was a great idea to set up tables for voter registration. Many students want to vote, but they have never really had a chance to register. They now have the opportunity."

A faculty debate is scheduled to be held in the upcoming weeks. According to Dwight Cassidy, Eta Pi Sigma will host an event to watch the nationally televised presidential debates between the two candidates in the Fitton Student Union and discussion will follow.

Senior Amy Goggins said, "Everyone's vote can make a difference. It is important for college students to voice their opinions and make a difference in the world."

In the past few elections, college age students have been the smallest percentage of voters, according to www.census.gov.

In 2006, only 22.1 percent of people ages 18 to 21 actually voted in an election. Many Shorter students feel that this election will be different.

"I believe that college students are more interested in this election than ever before," said senior Suzanne Gonzalez. "Both candidates have been overly publicized, and Obama especially has utilized technology, like Facebook, to get the word out."

The suffering economy also plays a role in the increased student participation in the election.

Colbert said, "This election can have a dramatic effect on students' lives, and they should be interested."

As the signs, bumper stickers and t-shirts begin to fill the campus, the excitement of the next president also increases.

Colbert summarized the election by saying, "I feel that either way we go, there will be immense changes in Washington in 2009, but I definitely hope my man gets elected."

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