Once a year during the spring semester, San Diego State University holds elections for Associated Students candidates competing for leadership positions on campus. These elected students play a crucial role in developing campus policies and representing their peers throughout the academic year. As such, the election process serves as an opportunity for students to participate in electing the individuals who will represent their interests.
Student voting rates, however, are low, with the percentage of voters being 9.1% in 2021 and 8.5% in 2022. The voter turnout for 2023 was higher but fell short of a 20% threshold. Students on campus shared their sentiments on A.S. elections and if they plan to vote.
Alejandro Rangel, a third-year criminal justice major:
“I just transferred here as a junior, so I haven’t heard about how to vote or anything like that.”
Rangel said he plans to vote in the upcoming elections if the link is easy to find.
Frida Sanchez, a second-year marketing major:
“I think someone approached me about it and that was how I heard about it and then I don’t think I ever received an email about it.”
Although Sanchez hasn’t voted in the past, she plans to do so now that she knows about it.
Mathew Lorenzen, a second-year civil engineering major:
“The current president (Tarek Morsy) came to my fraternity and was talking to us and got us to vote for him so I did.”
Lorenzen said he intends to participate in the upcoming elections as well.
(From left to right) Samantha Dollete, a third-year marketing major:
“I just got here so I didn’t know that they even had voting elections.”
Samantha Dollete said she would participate in the elections if she had more information.
Taylor Ochoa, a fourth-year financial services major:
“Possibly, I’m graduating in May so I’m not for sure. But I might,” Ochoa said.
Taylor Ochoa participated in past elections due to a campaign at her sorority chapter. However, she is undecided on whether she will vote in the upcoming election.
Interviews conducted by Nicole Hayek with photography by Callum Wilson.
