Anna Baynham
Blue & White Flash/Staff Writer
As students prepare for the upcoming 2012 Presidential election, in support of their candidate of choice, many watched the Democratic National Convention which nominated incumbent President Barack Obama and the Republican National Convention, which nominated Gov. Mitt Romney.
Each candidate spoke on several key issues that were very significant to the concerns of Americans. Some of the key concerns tackled by the candidates were: jobs and the economy, homeland security, health care, and education.
The following political science majors voiced their opinions as to why they are voting for a particular candidate and support that candidate’s stance on the key issues.
REPUBLICAN
Mary Bishop (Senior)
Political Science Major
Raymond, Miss.
Candidate of Choice
Gov. Mitt Romney
Jobs & the Economy
“I believe his policy on organized labor and secret ballots with states becoming “right to work states” will be one large step in preventing companies from fleeing from overseas to make money. His policy on responsible energy development in the U.S would create jobs and cheapen energy cost.”
Homeland Security
“I agree with his notion that when America is strong the world is safer.” To achieve this strength, Romney wants to restore the American economy, our military, and our core values. These values give us the moral authority to lead internationally.”
Health Care
“I do agree that something has to be done to address the third rail of American politics. Like Romney, I think that health care should be a state rights issue and the free market should be included in the New Bipartisan Plan.”
Education
“I completely agree with his policy and position of parental choice and putting the child ahead of special interest (teachers unions) and achieving reform through local school leaders.”
DEMOCRAT
Stephanie Lane (Junior)
Political Science Major
Jackson, Mississippi
Candidate of Choice
President Barack Obama
Jobs & the Economy
“I believe his policy on jobs and the economy will help us to not depend so much on foreign goods. The Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act will increase not only accountability for Wall Street but will also help prevent future financial collapses. While of course he has already found means to making several new jobs in the U.S, Obama is also encouraging businesses to hire unemployed Veterans and those with service-connected disabilities.”
Homeland Security
“His policy will reduce the risk of nuclear threats made by other countries by reducing the number of weapons deployed by certain countries. The Mexico Border Initial Act will limit the amount of threats that enter the U.S across the Mexican border. After the acts on 9/11, Obama really just wants his country to feel safe again. “
Health Care
“I agree totally with this policy. This stance is very beneficial because he has made it to where college students now can stay on our parent’s health care until the age of 26. Citizens now have more free clinics and more affordable nationwide health care.”
Education
“This policy is the most important for college students like me. He has already increased the amount of money given to students for the Pell Grant. He has signed a bill to implement an act on decreasing the amount of interest rates on our student loans and making them easier to pay back. Also he is helping create funds for education jobs, which will also prevent teacher and staff layoffs.”
Register to Vote Today: Last day to register is Oct. 5, 2012
Students and others may register to vote this Saturday during High School Day, at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium during the JSU vs Prairie View football game. You may register at Ayer Hall on campus or visit the SGA office on the 2nd floor of the JSU
