Election Section

By Alexzenia Davis


With all of the hype and surprise surrounding this year’s presidential election, Smithites are more excited than ever to rock the vote.

Even with JCSU’s disappointing turnout during the primaries, students foresee a greater presence in collegiate voters on November 4th.

“I don’t know if it’s because we have a black man running for president, but having Obama in the election makes more people want to be involved,” said Lesley Freeman, a junior Communication Arts major.

Many students feel that the fact that they attend an HBCU has had a major impact on their level of involvement, noting that some of their coursework has given them a more in depth look into the candidates’ platforms.

“I am taking a Media Literacy class where we debate, look at newspapers, and really try to decipher the facts. We aren’t trying to be bias,” said Charmaine Fenner. “It’s gotten me more involved in politics. I can foresee major changes if Obama wins.”

“[My] reporting class has given me more information. It pushed me to watch the debates,” said Freeman, “Before I came here I knew I wanted to vote, but it wasn’t that important.”

Student organizations have shifted their focus to the election. Voter registration drives and workshops have caused many to realize the significance of their vote even more so than in previous years.

“I think the [magnitude] of this election is hyping everybody up. I’ve watched every debate. I always have the TV on to stay updated on what’s happening,” said Fenner.

With the faltering state of the economy, Leah Burney, a senior majoring in Spanish and English understands how this decision will directly affect herself as well as her peers. “The economy is bad; there is so much job loss. Companies are going bankrupt; the housing market is in trouble. This election is important. It will determine the next four years.”

Burney’s level of awareness on these issues is something that she hopes other Smithites will have before voting.

“I will say a select few know what’s going on. When broad based issues come about, students want to become more active. A lot of people only want to be involved when something big happens.”
So what will students be doing on election night?

“It’s a Tuesday so I guess homework. And of course I’ll have the TV on to see whose winning,” said Burney.

“I’m going home to vote,” said Freeman, “I will be watching CNN, MSNBC, and all of the news stations. I want to know everything that’s going on as it happens.”

“I will be tuned into CNN. I don’t care if I have a meeting. I will be in my room,” said Fenner.

“Well for one, I will vote,” said Junior Y’Nique Wright. ”Then I’ll be praying that Obama wins.”