Student groups at the University are gearing up for today's election with a common goal in mind: They want everyone to get out and vote. From canvassing neighborhoods to working the polls, students are fulfilling their civic duty by getting involved in various levels of politics.
While many of the active student groups today will voice a certain political affiliation, on the whole students are stressing the importance of making sure that everyone who can vote casts a ballot.
"We are trying to encourage students to vote regardless of their political affiliation," Cavs '04 Kerry member Maria Petrini said. "We want to encourage general awareness of our political system."
Cavs '04 Kerry spent yesterday on the Lawn handing out information, and the group plans to stand near the polls with Kerry signs today.
The College Republicans will cover four precincts for the election.
"Virginia isn't a swing state, so we will just be covering the polls," said Amber VerValin, vice chairman for campaigns for the College Republicans. "We hand out sample ballots and greet voters and see if they have any questions."
The University Democrats have been working in conjunction with the Al Weed campaign, spending much of their time standing in highly visible areas with signs, reminding motorists and pedestrians to vote.
"I'm being terribly optimistic and saying of course Kerry will win," University Democrats Secretary Amanda Le Tard said.
Political issues and discussions are more prominent on Grounds this election year, Cavs '04 Kerry member Andrew Erwin said.
"I think everyone in our age group cares a lot more this year because there are so many issues affecting our personal lives," Erwin said. "Issues like the war in Iraq, abortion and gay rights directly impact today's youth."
All groups seem optimistic about their respective candidate's chances.
Caitlin Howarth, a second-year College student working on Weed's campaign, said that not only wanting her candidate to win compels her to action.
"People have to speak up to make sure their voice is heard," Howarth said. "It's not so much that your guy is spectacular -- you have to send a clear message if the incumbent has screwed up."
These informational campaigns will be working full strength tomorrow, with the University Democrats going door to door, asking if people have voted or if they need a ride to the polls.
Civic participation "helps people feel better about politics in general," Le Tard said.
Democrat or Republican, the message is the same.
"Go vote!" Le Tard said. "I hope everyone has said that."
Associate Editor A.J. Frank contributed to this report.
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