Student government is not an entity separate from the student body—it’s comprised of members of the Portland State community who are willing to represent the interests of us all. But this time around, no one seems willing to step up to the job, including those who are running for office.
Editorial: Out with the old, in with the old
Student government is not an entity separate from the student body—it’s comprised of members of the Portland State community who are willing to represent the interests of us all. But this time around, no one seems willing to step up to the job, including those who are running for office.
The deadlines for entering the race for next year have come and gone. Students are left with only a short list of candidates, none of whom managed to show up for a public Senate forum Wednesday, which was planned weeks in advance.
Despite the Elections Board’s efforts to better organize the electoral process this year, the due date for applications to run for ASPSU president, vice president, Senate and Student Fee Committee fell on the Monday of spring break. This unfortunate timing may be a contributing factor to the uncontested races for president and vice president. Until yesterday, other interested parties could collect 50 signatures to become “write-in” candidates. However, according to ASPSU’s constitution, those who register late are disallowed from campaigning on campus, putting them at a disadvantage and making it hard for students to cast informed ballots.
Naturally, an organization cultivates its next crop of leaders, but the list of those running primarily contains names of people already part of ASPSU. Too few new people—who could contribute novel ideas and fresh perspectives—have put their hats in the ring.
Last year’s election had a low turnout of only 800 hundred voters. Numerous resignations throughout the year have led to an understaffed executive branch and a Senate that is barely able to make quorum. ASPSU needs a renewed zest for its work and better student outreach efforts.
Blame for a disengaged student body that is unwilling to participate in its government does not fall entirely on the shoulders of the current leaders. To some extent, students have to be willing to autonomously seek out election information and to include themselves in the governmental process. Both those who are dissatisfied and those who are pleased with the efforts of ASPSU are obligated to step up to either bring about reform or to contribute to the work already being done.
While it may be too late to enter this year’s race, it’s not too late to become involved. Students can still inform themselves about the candidates, apply to be appointed to vacant offices or consider running in next year’s election.
