THE BIG O: Indiana dems' vote counts in 2008 primary

What do Indiana Democrats and disco have in common? Both haven't mattered since the 1970s. Well, that is, until this year.

For the first time in a long time voting Democrats will play a role within the party's nomination process. In the general election Indiana may very well become a blue state voting for change instead of a continuation of the Bush administration. As was evident during the weekend, both Democratic candidates Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton realize the value of the Hoosier state.

As confirmed by the many visits of the Clinton campaign and the opening of several regional headquarters across the state for Obama, Indiana is shaping up to be a critical battleground before the Democratic National Convention. Cities like Indianapolis, Fort Wayne and Muncie that hold sizeable pockets of Democratic voters are receiving much attention.

Hillary Clinton visited Muncie Central High School on Friday to discuss the country's ailing economy.

I'm glad she took the time to visit Muncie, Ind.," said Kevin Shroyer, a Ball State University student who attended the event. "She has some really great ideas that people need to look at. After hearing her talk, I don't know who I'm going to vote for."

As illustrated through Shroyer's comments, there is a sense of energy and excitement that surrounds the candidates and that the community needs to embrace.

Additionally, Saturday saw the official opening of the Obama campaign office in the Village. Democratic state representative Dennis Tyler and Obama campaign manager Mitch Stewart were both on hand to see a line of 120 people eagerly awaiting its opening. According to Nate Horning, the regional co-director, the office represents Delaware County and 18 other counties.

"We want to bring about a sense of pride and purpose to the process," he said.

The office's goal is to provide information regarding Obama's platform, serve as an outlet where students can volunteer for the campaign and register voters for the upcoming election.

The last day to register for Indiana's May 6 primary is April 7. Instead of being apathetic to the presidential election process, students should take advantage of the opportunity to make a difference. Though some may be turned off by politics in general, the fact is that past and future policies set by legislators represent America. Politics are inescapable as they surround every facet of life, which in turn defines who we are.

Turning on CNN, FOX News or MSNBC instead of Comedy Central or ESPN and becoming informed about the policies that are shaping America is an act that is worthwhile and of value.

Those who remain undecided should take time and explore each of the candidates' official campaign Web sites. Personal blogs, though amusing and sometimes pertinent, may contain exaggerations and fallacies misleading voters in relation to a candidate's particular stance. Becoming informed and then making the choice as to which candidate to support is the responsibility of every voter.

Students should explore on-campus student organizations like the College Republicans or the University Democrats to take advantage the presented political opportunities. Ultimately, choosing to be a campaign volunteer for John McCain, Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama is a wonderful opportunity to become an active participant in the historic 2008 presidential election.

Besides, nobody really knows when the next time a Hoosier's vote might actually matter.

Write to Travis at tjoneill@bsu.edu


More from The Daily






Loading Recent Classifieds...