It is no secret that the editors of the Three Village Herald despise the right of university students to vote in local elections. This statement, aside from being grossly untrue, reflects an arrogant but common mentality among a few local residents who wish to preserve their lily-white community and keep outsiders away. Stony Brook students live, shop, and conduct business in the same places as other residents of the three village area.
Students drive on the same roads, drink the same water, and are subject to the same laws.
Students interact with local residents on a daily basis and share common concerns - a fact that the Herald refuses to acknowledge. The most likely reason for the contempt shown by the largely Republican community may be due to the overwhelming majority of students who register themselves as Democrats. LaValle also insulted the intelligence of students when he packaged himself as the Independence party candidate, without any connection to the Governor. Maintenance staff are instructed to remove signs affixed to buildings, doors, and other public areas. Signs from LaValle's campaign that were posted in inappropriate spots were removed, as were all other literature in the area.