People our age have been soured on elections many times over. Most of the propositions we vote for never seem to be actually enacted, and too many people in both parties invariably turn out corrupt. Personally, I’ve solved this problem by resolving to always vote for the pro wrestler.

        But today’s ASB election is of a different sort. Typically, you don’t see anywhere near the level of mudslinging in these campaigns, and I’ve never heard of anybody involved having any scandals with any interns. Since I’ve been through three of these silly things (why am I proud of this?!), I fancy myself as some sort of political columnist, so I’m going to talk about a couple of the races.

         In my humble, yet extraordinarily biased opinion, ASB Director of Activities is the most important of the positions, controlling the largest single budget of any ASB officer. As I write this, this office is unopposed (which never happened to me. Not that I’m bitter…). Personally, I think we’ve picked a winner. Andrew Vick was one of the Associate Directors last year, so he has experience. In addition, anyone talking to Vick can see that he is absolutely bursting with ideas. Next, I’ve come to the opinion during my experience that being the Director of Activities is not only about having your own ideas, but being able to champion good ideas from other sources just as vigorously, which is rarer than it sounds. I think Vick has this. Finally, Vick was one of the people spearheading the movement last year to try to update school mascot Charlie Crusader, and has a real heart for getting more school spirit behind the sports programs, which I believe is needed, but was one of my weak areas last year.

         The other race I want to talk about is the one for ASB President. This is the toughest race I have ever seen for the position. It is also one of the most diverse in terms of ethnicity and social involvement with a little gender diversity as well. In my opinion, all four people involved would make absolutely great presidents. It should be a close race.

         In speaking with D Marsh, I was most impressed with his humility. I believe that Marsh’s main focus for the job would be treating it as a ministry opportunity. He is very concerned about bringing the ASB more to the students, which needs to be a focus given the current “holy third floor” location and perception (which has been a focus and a bane for a lot of prior ASB Councils).

         The experience edge has to go to Gina Rice. I’ve known Gina since her first year here as she’s been involved with class councils, as well as being both the Associate Director and Director of Student Relations. Rice’s strength would be her ability to augment the other members of the ASB Council through her experience.

         When I was speaking with Joey Sagawa, I was impressed with his perception of the job. The President’s job is largely undefined, and can be a bit intimidating at times. I see Sagawa as someone who would hit the ground running as President, and become very active in the position.

        Last (alphabetically), but far from least is Brent Simmons. Simmons is the youngest of the contenders and will only be a Junior next year, but I believe him to have a lot of talent. He did a great job being Sophomore Class President last year, as well as being on Social Life Committee for that one guy. You know, the one who thinks he’s funny. Anyway, Simmons brings a lot of energy to the position and, in my opinion, really reaches out to some social groups on campus that other candidates might not have as strong a connection with.

         But here’s where you guys come in. Most of you have just been entertained by a lot of funny speeches, and heard some serious ones as well. Remember, this shouldn’t be a beauty contest or a popularity contest, but the result of asking yourself who you trust with nearly a quarter of a million dollars of your money. Your vote and your involvement does make a difference.

         See you at the Caf.