Lowry would like to use his results to organize an open forum, town-hall type of debate on campus involving the student Democratic and Republican groups. If someone has a question about where a candidate stands on an issue, he said, hopefully a student will be able to answer. Peggy Lawlis, assistant director of the Hansen Leadership Program, said that they held a voter registration and sent information to students about absentee ballots. It seems as if students are really busy and some don t know about the issues on the ballot, she said. I guess that s why we re doing election stuff this year to get students ready.
Students have similar views on the issues, but conflict about the importance of voting.
Freshman Melanie Harryman said that she thinks the most important issues are the environment, education and the budget. I think it s looked at as a hassle rather than a privilege, but everyone should vote, no matter how old they are, she said. Freshman Bryshonne Bryant said he thinks education and taxes are important issues, but he is not registered to vote. It s pointless to me. However, sophomore Solomon Kleinsmith said it s hard for him to comprehend why someone wouldn t vote.