With the presidential election just weeks away, Washington State University campuses across the system are busy educating students about the democratic process, introducing them to the issues and candidates, and helping them register to vote.
“People are energized right now,” said Ben Calabretta, director of the Center for Civic Engagement (CCE). “We can see it during our interactions with students — they are excited to participate in the election.”
Their excitement does not always translate into knowing how to participate. For many students, this election will be their first time voting and they are unfamiliar with the process. Calabretta said students often have questions about where they can access voter registration forms, which address they should use on the form — their school address or permanent address, what type of identification they need, and where can they drop off their ballot.
To help address these questions and many more like them, Calabretta coordinates the Cougs Vote Campaign, which brings together students, faculty, and staff from across the system who are planning and implementing voter education activities and programs. Interactions with students are taking place in residence halls, classrooms, union buildings, and student organization meetings.
Zoe Pfeifer, the director of legislative affairs for the Associated Student of Washington State University Tri-Cities is organizing monthly voter registration drives, and has a special event planned for Oct. 10 when students can meet and talk with six congressional members from their district.
“The purpose of this event is to help students understand that those who represent them are people, too, and it is okay to reach out to them,” Pfeifer said.
While the presidential election is getting most of the attention, T Rozhkova, the director of internal legislative affairs for the Associated Students of Washington State University Vancouver, wants students to know that their votes can make a big difference at the local level. Pointing to the recent Washington primary election, a recount was needed in the Commissioner for Public Lands race because the difference between second and third place was less than 50 votes.
“Many students believe their votes don’t matter,” said Rozhkova. “We want to educate students on how their votes hold more value the more local you get.”
Rozhkova and his team are planning a Floats for Votes gathering on Oct. 22, 11 a.m., in Firstenberg Commons, that will bring together students, and local and state legislative candidates. Pizza, floats, and swag will be provided.
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