Students attended a forum in the CAC to witness a debate between the local Democratic and Republican party representative as well as a few other, lesser known parties on Tuesday, Oct. 23. With the national election right around the corner, students confronted with the many conflicting and confusing ideas presented in politics were able to hear first hand the positions of the respective parties.
This debate gave students an important insight into the policies and views supported by the attending parties.
“I gained information on many topics,” senior Bryan Reina said. ” I am usually against government policies but hearing these people speak helped me understand their opinions and political stance.”
For many students, the debate was a positive and informative experience, especially those who are registered to vote and needed more information for the upcoming election.
“Honestly, a lot of my opinions changed,” senior Marshall Daines said. “I knew some of the main policies but its always good to learn about the opinions of both republican and democratic supporters, as well as those independent parties such as the Green Party, Libertarian Party, and Peace and Freedom Party.”
Although some found the debate intriguing and informative, others were surprised by what came of the debate. The debate was meant to inform government and economics students, and some did take away more than they expected.
“I don’t like to say I don’t care, but I just don’t see the sense in choosing one or the other in politics,” senior Jacob Evans said. “Politics is so black and white and I’d rather support something I truly believe in, and that’s why having the lesser known parties struck a chord with me. Their beliefs are much more focused often times.”
For people like Evans, the three less popular parties provided a chance for students to find a party that supported their particular views. Although these parties do not get as much recognition, the debate gave attendees the chance to become more affiliated with a party of their choice and gain important insight in moving toward voting in the coming years.
