Primary concerns: College groups fight to increase voter support
By Irene Manahan
Posted: 1/31/08, 2:00 AM EST Section: News
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They talked to voters about why former New York City mayor Rudolph Giuliani is the best presidential contender. They contacted College Republican leaders in chapters throughout the nation to create a solidarity movement between the states. They reached out to the student body, encouraging engagement in politics and involvement in a campaign.
Then, Tuesday night, the bomb dropped on the Students for Rudy. Senator John McCain took home the Florida vote-the vote from the only state Giuliani relied on. Come Wednesday, Giuliani announced he had conceded the race. Naturally, the team was left frustrated, but despite the loss, it did not feel defeated.
"We did all we could. It was beyond worth it. I have no regrets," said Vinny Napolitano, executive director of the College Republicans and chair of the Students for Rudy at SU. "We've really been able to experience the nitty-gritty of internal politics. I think that anyone who participates in these campaigns can learn valuable stuff for their futures."
As Super Tuesday on Feb. 5 draws near, political organizations across the SU campus continue to mobilize young voters and garner support for some of their favorite candidates.
Albeit their political ideals often clash, the College Republicans and Democrats at SU share a passion for engaging the student electorate. The upcoming presidential primary elections have driven the groups closer together as they encourage young voters to take part in this potentially revolutionary election.
"The presence of the College Democrats and Republicans on campus gives the face to both parties," said Abbey DiPlacido, president of the College Democrats at SU. "It shows that politics is something that people our age should care about."
U.S. voter turnout rates have steadily declined within the last 50 years, but as the 2008 presidential primaries come to a close, those waning participation patterns are starting to look up.
While voters between the ages of 18 and 24 are notoriously known for their political apathy, Brian Duprey, chairman of the College Republicans at SU, has noticed student awareness has peaked during this election season.
"I think this year, more than ever, kids are getting involved," Duprey said. "Each side of the spectrum-Democrat and Republican-is so wide open. There are so many candidates that could possibly win. This is the year that we could really make a difference. More people in our age group are taking notice and taking the chance to be involved."
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