SVSU political organizations to debate on candidates, issues

January 28, 2008 —

As the 2008 presidential elections inch closer , some SVSU students are tackling major issues and promoting student participation in the political process.

Student Association, in conjunction with the Organization for Progressive Politics (OPP) and the SVSU College Republicans (CR) is hosting a series of debates focused around the upcoming primary debates and the major presidential issues of this election.

The first set is based around the televised primary debates on CNN. Students are invited to gather in the Alumni Lounge at 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday and watch the Republican and Democratic debates, respectively.

Following the broadcast, participating students will have an opportunity to discuss whatever issues interest them most.

"The topics for these informal discussions range from certain issues and candidates to the differences in the national parties," SA Parliamentarian Jeremy Jones said. "These debate nights, open to all students, are designed to increase awareness and participation in America's political system and to provide a forum for student opinions."

Voter registration cards are available each night, as well as free pizza and drinks.

The other upcoming debate night is a more formal function between the OPP and the CR. On Feb. 19, these two groups will meet at the Rhea Miller Recital Hall to face off on such issues as immigration, health care, and the environment. Each issue will consist of a 30-minute period in which five questions will be asked to each side. All SVSU students are invited to attend.

Jones, a political activist himself, feels very strongly in the importance of these events for students.

"The debates provide voters, including students, with an opportunity to see the popular candidates discussing important issues in an unscripted manner. Many of the issues are critical to students and their success now and later in life."

SVSU College Republicans, formed in 2007, is a grass roots movement on behalf of the Republican Party. Their primary focus is in ensuring Republican victory in the 2008 election by working on door-to-door campaigns, working the phone banks, and increasing awareness on and off campus by going out into the community and talking about the issues.

The Organization for Progressive Politics on the other hand doesn't technically follow partisan lines, professing to be frustrated with both mainstream American political parties. They are a group that caters to all progressively-minded people from any party.

Both the OPP and the CR have Facebook groups for further information or membership questions.

Debates and open discussions for January and February

Jan. 30

Open screening of the Republican debates in Alumni Lounge at 8:00 p.m.

Jan. 31

Open screening of the Democratic debates in Alumni Lounge at 8:00 p.m.

A public forum hosted by the Environmental Protection Agency in Curtiss Hall from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. Presentations will focus on status of the Great Lakes.

Feb. 19

OPP and College Republicans hold debate in Rhea Miller Recital Hall on the 4th floor of the Zhanow Library. Begins at 7 p.m.