Saint Xavier University will host three Debate Watching Parties that will screen the 2016 presidential and vice presidential debates on campus. These will be open to students, staff and the community.
The first Debate Watching Party will screen the Presidential Debate on September 26th, from 7:30pm to 9:30pm in McGuire Hall. The second and third debate parties will be screened in the Fourth Floor Boardroom on October 4th for the Vice Presidential Debate and October 19th for the Presidential Debate, starting at 7:30pm as well. Doors will open at 7:15pm for all Debate Watching Parties.
Students will be able to register to vote at the debate parties by bringing two forms of identification (one showing current address). Click here to see the Voter Registration requirements. Additionally, local elected officials will be present at the debate parties and will answer all questions from the attendees. Refreshments will be served.
If interested in attending any of these Debate Watching Parties email newsroom@sxu.edu to RSVP.
James Mills, SXU Political Science graduate, believes that hosting these Debate Watching Parties on campus will help motivate students to vote. He is convinced that presidential debates can persuade voters and can also help voters get to know the plans each candidate has. For Mills, debates are important during the election season because they help a candidate win or lose the election.
“Students should vote because voting is one of the most important actions a person can do to let their voice and opinions be heard. It is very important that everyone has a say in who runs their government and what that government does,” said Mills.
When asked why students should watch the presidential campaigns, Mills responded: “First, because it’s in their best interest to do so . . . Secondly, voting is a fundamental right that not all people had at first. I won’t go into the long storied history of women and minorities fighting for their right to vote but, I will say this: People have the right to and not to vote. Just know, by not voting, you are in essence allowing someone else to make a choice for you.”
Mills encourages students to research the policy proposals of both presidential candidates. He explained that, although there are four candidates running (Hillary Clinton, Donald Trump, Gary Johnson, and Jill Stein), only Clinton and Trump “have a viable path to the 270 electoral votes needed to win the White House.” Click here to see Hillary Clinton’s (Democratic nominee) proposals; and here for Donald Trump’s (Republican nominee).
“I truly hope [that] everyone gets out on November 8th and votes. I know this election has been long, grueling, and even downright nasty, but, don’t let that keep you from voting. Get informed about the candidates, pick a candidate you think best aligns with your views, and vote! May God bless you all and may God bless the United States of America,” concluded Mills.
Miryam Villarreal
Senior News Editor