[College students are turning out in record numbers to vote for presidential candidates this year. Democracywise reporter Beth Croughan tells us about one group of college students and their new-found interest in politics. ]
College students don’t vote, according to history. But this year, the numbers show differently. The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement at the University of Maryland studies young people and their political behavior. The research group reports that in this round of voting for presidential nominees, young people are changing their habits.
In Iowa, for example, the youth vote tripled from 2004. And in New Hampshire, 43 percent of 18- to 29-year-olds cast their vote in the primary. Here on Syracuse University’s private college campus, many young people are also part of that pattern of a new excitement about the candidates.
[We’re out here to show support for Obama’s candidacy in Syracuse. We’re here to remind people that the primary is this Tuesday. That they should get out and vote.” Marshall Spevak, campus coordinator, Syracuse University Students for Obama]
[“I think around here there does seem to be some enthusiasm for candidates on both side—especially on the Democratic side, for Barack Obama.” Danny Hayes, political science professor, Syracuse University]
So far, Senator Barack Obama and Republican Senator John McCain are capturing more of the youth vote than their opponents. Danny Hayes is a Syracuse University political science professor. Hayes says young voters see a special appeal in Obama and McCain.
[“They represent something new. And I think some of the things young people don’t often like about politics is that they seem it as the continuation of the same old thing that isn’t really relevant to their lives. And this year seems to be a little bit different. That these candidates seem to have an appeal to young people, saying that this isn’t just the same old thing.” Danny Hayes]
On Syracuse University’s campus, the most noticeable candidate group is Students for Obama. The group’s campus coordinator is Marshall Spevak, a sophomore, political science major. He says he thinks Obama’s vision for America is the attraction for young voters.
[“His ability to unite people. His ability to restore our image across the world. And he’s really someone I believe can unite this country.” Marshall Spevak]
Republicans on campus have just organized a Syracuse University Students for John McCain group, with already over 40 members. The presidential primary is February 5th. The polls open at noon. For Democracywise, I’m Beth Croughan.
[Beth Croughan is a junior broadcast journalism and political science major.]
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