cartoon by Adam Omernik
Election 2004 is over and there is not a hanging chad in sight. Despite a nation torn over the outcome, some positives should be noted. A record number of voters went to the polls. It is all University of La Verne students talked about as they scheduled voting around lunch and classes. Some students even made the drive back to their hometowns where they are still registered. It seemed everyone invested something in this election.
So even though election fever will soon cool and many voters will return to a more comfortable state of political comatose, it is important that they not forget what it felt like on Tuesday to stand in line at the polls.
Remembering the enthusiasm and faith in democracy, not to mention strong opinions on major national themes, that turned out so many voters should encourage voters to force the reigning administration to take notice.
Even though Bush has been re-elected legitimately this time he should still feel the pressure of this close race.
The Campus Times is here to help you, Mr. Bush, with a wish list for the next four years.
1. As college students, we know the importance of a deadline. You might have gotten out of this in your own college experience with a note signed by Daddy Bush. But you need to give us a deadline for getting out of Iraq.
2. Please note that during your campaign you were adamantly against reinstatement of the military draft. Remember that please. We know math is not your strong suit, but now that you’ve won, we still have the same number of volunteers for armed service and we don’t need to be volunteered.
3. And we know you aren’t the best in grammar either. For the last time, it’s N-U-C-L-E-A-R. Perhaps some private tutoring so we can at least fake out the rest of the world with the facade of a competent president.
4. Keep your faith within your family, please. Separation of church and state is essential.
5. Protect the environment the way you do large corporations like Halliburton. Nature, too, is a target of a different kind of terrorist.
6. You are now leading a very divided nation. Treat us all fairly because not everyone subscribes to your values.
7. No more private clubhouse. Let’s stay away from remaining a secret administration.
8. As you may recall, unilateral decisions did not go over well with many nations and many Americans. Do not be too proud to ask for advice and then take it.
9. In appointing Supreme Court justices, please keep out the crazies.
10. And as for Jenna and Barbara, well maybe the podium isn’t their place to shine.