Editorial: A higher standard of excellence

Last week, we outlined some problems with the ASPSU election, which has become a broken system in dire need of an overhaul. This week, we offer suggestions in the hope of improving ASPSU and its elections. But citing problems and complaining can only go so far—solutions should be offered and action needs to be taken.

The problem at the forefront of the election is the lack of new blood and, as a result, cronyism. Having someone other than the ASPSU president in charge of election management is one possible solution.

Better yet, why not have a capstone class for political science students which puts them in charge of managing the election? This would offer a unique educational opportunity while bringing neutrality to the system.

Each year our election suffers from an increasing lack of visibility. This year, with so few candidates in the running, some did not even bother to campaign, while others were barred from campaigning at all.

A policy should be established stating that there must be more than one candidate before an election can be held.

Students should never be barred from campaigning. This year, write-in candidates faced the extreme difficulty and unfair disadvantage of being prohibited from campaigning on campus. After a review of the Elections Board bylaws, a rule explicitly stating this prohibition could not be located. Furthermore, if such a rule exists, it is a clear violation of candidates’ First Amendment rights.

Clear election dates and application deadlines need to be set and consistently executed each year. This schedule should include the hiring of an E-Board chair before winter break.

This year, applications for candidacy were due in the middle of spring break; such timing does not encourage participation. Applications should be due when school is in session, and not when everyone is on vacation and the school is closed.

While its intent was good this year, ASPSU’s small victories were completely overshadowed by office drama. Members spent a lot of time and energy rallying students for state legislative measures and for a war against the Frohnmayer Report.

If ASPSU’s members can handle a massive voter registration drive and tour classes to inform about state measures, they certainly have the ability to pull off a far better election than what was provided this year.
If the ASPSU president has enough time to rally students to yell at President Wim Wiewel with a megaphone outside his office, he has enough time to organize a decent election.

ASPSU has a tendency to set lofty goals and it seems to forget about all the little things that could be done which students would appreciate more. The food bank, for example, was a good start. Students would be perfectly happy to get e-mails about something that helps students, like simple food donations.

Blame cannot be placed entirely upon the shoulders of ASPSU; the student government can only do so much. Its efforts will all be completely meaningless if students don’t make the choice to become involved. An organization that really does need the attention and oversight of the student body deserves more than a cold shoulder from the very students for which it works.

Student elections are by no means beyond repair. We hope that next year’s representatives can find the dedication that will bring the elections up to a higher standard of excellence.