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November 07, 2006
Intern works to create political awareness on campus
Election day has come around again, and for Minnesota the stakes are high. The first step in electing any official is getting people to the polls in the first place. Junior Jacob Peterson is working to help ensure that Hamline students do just that.
Peterson started as an intern at Minnesota Student Vote (MSV), a college-based organization dedicated to promoting political awareness and progressive values, at the beginning of October. Since then, he has been an active member of the MSV teamčtabling, talking to students about the voting process and informing them of the goals of MSV’s favored senate candidate, Amy Klobuchar.
Peterson said many Hamline students he’s talked to are in support of Klobuchar, who he said addresses the issues college students seem most concerned with.
What are Hamline students concerned with? According to MSV, which has been asking questions around campus, it all comes down to tuition. Students want a candidate who can improve the economy globally, but who also cares about lowering tuition rates in private colleges.
Another issue Peterson said Hamline students seem to be very aware of is the war in Iraq. Many, Peterson said, favor a gradual withdrawal of American soldiers from Iraq rather than an immediate removal.
In order to vote, all that is needed is a valid Minnesota identification card. Campus residents should bring Hamline ID's. A proof of residence, such as an original copy of a current utility bill, may also be required. Peterson added that it is always a good idea to bring someone who can vouch for your eligibility to vote and your residence.
Getting students to the polls is an important issue, Peterson saidčnot only because it is a responsibility, but also because it beneficial. Candidates cater to the majority population of voters and right now, students are voting less than the general public. Some of the bad turnout could be due to the feeling that an individual can’t make a difference.
“That’s true, it is only one vote,” Peterson said, “but it’s more than that. It’s your most fundamental and powerful right.”
Peterson said that’s one thing that MSV has been trying to get students in Minnesota to understand.
“I can post fliers, and [people] might read it and they might not. I think talking to people is the most important thing. It’s much more powerful and is more personal,” Peterson said, regarding his chosen method of getting the word out.
Peterson said that he and MSV hope that students vote for Klobuchar and other progressive candidates.
The Secretary of State’s poll finder is online at
pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/
Posted by dwright at November 7, 2006 08:53 PM
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