By David Jackson/reporter
TCollege students are highly recruited to participate in political elections, but many fail to turn out on election days.
Some students are persuaded by what the political parties have to say or offer while other student viewscome from what their parents tell them.
In the 2004 presidential election, voter turnout in the 18–29 age group was higher than the 2000 election by 4.6 million votes.
The young registered voters had 55 percent in John Kerry’s favor, according to USA Today, but they did not have enough votes to get Kerry into office.
The young voter turnout has not had an increase like this since 1992, USA Today reported.
Many news sources believe voter turnout will increase with candidates Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama,
Rudy Giuliani and John McCain running for president.
More young voters have been converted with voting rallies like Vote or Die, aimed at the young Hip-Hop
voters, or Smackdown Your Vote for the wrestling-viewing voters.
With the 2008 election ahead, student views vary as to which political parties they support.
Henry Handy, NE Campus, is undecided.
“ I believe both sides are crooked because they cater more toward their party rather than the people,” he said.
Ann Pinson, South Campus, takes her views from her family.
“ I grew up in a conservative household, so my views are openly toward conservatives,” she said.
While parents are swaying students, the country could be in peril, Julius Williams from SE Campus said. Williams is a liberal who does not follow in his parents’ conservative footsteps.
Frederick Smith, NE Campus, grew up in a fairly liberal household, but sides with the conservatives because he believes they are leading the country in the right direction.
Nancy Young, South Campus, said she does not rely on family for her views.
“ I choose my political affiliation based on facts and beliefs,” she said. “And that’s how I plan to base my vote next year for the 2008 election.”
James Lewis, SE Campus, said his mind is made up.
“ When it’s time to vote, I will be ready to cast my vote for the Democratic Party,” he said.
“ Growing up in the last eight years with the Republicans on top has shown me it’s time for a change, and I will vote on that change.”
Latoya Anderson, SE Campus, had no intentions of voting until she heard Hillary Clinton was running. She wants to support her just because she is the first woman to run.
Arthur Mason, NE Campus, is leaning toward someone he considers a proven leader.
“ I might vote for Rudy Giuliani because he seems as if he can hold his own ground,” he said. “Watching what he did for the city of New York after 9-11 gives me the confidence that he can do a great job as president.”
Joseph Wright, NE Campus, is also leaning toward the former New York City mayor.
“ Rudy Giuliani seems to be the best choice out there,” he said.
“ He has the right attitude and good experience at handling problems and understanding people, especially after 9-11 and all the efforts Giuliani did to boost the city’s morale after such a shocking event.”
Troy Matthews, South Campus, is looking for an experienced leader.
“ Senator John McCain should be the next president because of his military experience and political experience because that’s what I believe makes a good leader,” he said.
Anthony Williams, South Campus, believes Barack Obama is a good choice.
“ He seems to be highly intelligent and confident about running, and he looks as if he will be ready to handle the pressures of office,” he said.
Campus student voices are now being heard.
“ We are young,” Brian Snead, South Campus, said.
“ We have a voice, and they will see next year when we go to the polls and vote for who we believe is the best fit for the job.
