MTV News comes to student debate

POLITICAL NOTES: Rockin' the vote in TSC. / Photo by Marshall Young

By Marshall Young

January 24, 2008 | MTV News came to Utah State to film a student political debate designed to discuss different political parties' perspectives on issues with government.

The event took place Wednesday afternoon in the International Lounge.

Nick West, HASS Senator, said that the purpose of this event was to show everyone that "college students are interested in the political process." The interest in the debate comes from the Rock the Vote campaign that the university has been performing during the week. MTV News knew about the event because the university had to contact them and get permission to be a part of the Rock the Vote program.

The debate had one student representative for the Republican, Democratic, Libertarian and Constitutions parties. They came dressed up in a different way from your typical political debate. Among the non-traditional attire included a bandana, hat, sporty corduroy jacket, long hair, and jeans.

While the casual observer may have noticed a lack of protocol in the manner of dress, the students didn't lack knowledge on the different political viewpoints, and contested each other's answers.

West, who represented the Republicans, said that the party is proactive in its approach to the war on terror because it believes that by doing so America can avoid economic catastrophes that come with terrorist attacks.

Jon Adams, a sociology and political science major who represented the Democrats, slightly disagreed, saying, "We can support the warriors without supporting the war."

Each participant presented his party's platform and other misconceptions about the party. They also discussed issues such as the perceived rise in independent candidates, healthcare, social security, and how to strengthen the economy.

"I'd pay a lot more to get less government," said Ryan Tonk, graduate student speaking for the Libertarian Party.

Overall, the student panelists agreed that the potential voting power the student population has is great, but the response is likely to be spotty until the candidates offer special attention to issues that matter most to students.

The Rock the Vote campaign will continue to help students register to vote in the TSC through Friday. Those who register won't be able to vote in the presidential primary Feb. 5, but will be able to vote in November.

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