Tuesday, November 6, 2012 Print Edition by Collegiate Times

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COLLEGIATE TIMES ELECTION EDITION 2012

WHY I T M AT T E R S Four years of campaigning and $6 billion have been spent on America’s next four years, but today boils down to three minutes in a polling booth. For these four Virginia Tech students, it matters. BY PRISCILLA ALVAREZ, CAMERON AUSTIN, ANDREW KULAK & DEAN SEAL | news reporters

to andrew whitley

to eric smith

to erica wood

to corey scott

the tarmac in Richmond last

fields on a cold winter morning

her room demanding she come

machinery for a major supplier

May, he may have been a

in Iowa. The thermometer reads

downstairs to watch the news.

to coal mines. His mother is a

little surprised to meet Andrew

close to zero, but Eric Smith

It was a strange request for

schoolteacher. Politics run in

Whitley.

the

knows with the wind-chill, it will

a middle school student. That

his family. His grandfather was

surface, Whitley might not

feel more like -20 degrees. He

was the night Ronald Reagan

a county administrator in his

strike you as a Democrat.

has another 12-hour day ahead

died.

hometown of Wise, Virginia.

hen President Obama stepped

Because

out

onto

he wind whips across the plains and through corn-

ne summer night, Erica Wood’s father came to

of him, knocking on doors for From his firm handshake to his distinct accent, Whitley appears to embody the characteristics of a Republican man from southwestern Virginia. But, according to him, in his tiny hometown of under 2,000 residents, he is well known as the “Democrat of Chilhowie.” And it’s a title Whitley wears well. Before the 2008 election, Whitley was just another 15-year-old unable to influence politics. But during that election season, something in then-candidate Obama’s campaigning, stirred a deep drive for politics in Whitley. “Listening to the President speak, it didn’t necessarily change my opinions, but it opened my eyes,” Whitley said. see WHITLEY / page two

WHAT’S

INSIDE

During his two-and-a-half weeks in Iowa last December, Smith shared his political philosophy with thousands of people, some of whom were even less hospitable than the weather. “You’ll have people who answer the door, hear you’re from the Ron Paul campaign, then just slam the door in your face,” Smith said. He paused to think. “You know, it was a lot of work, but it was a lot of fun,” Smith said. see SMITH / page two

see WOOD / page three

Paul before the Iowa Caucuses.

Our views on the importance of voting, columns for each candidate page four

country. His stepdad sells

Population: 3,296. Graduating Her father stressed the importance of the event, saying that one of the most influential men of the century had died. “He legitimately interrupted what we were doing to watch this day that he considered historic,” Wood recalled. Wood’s father was a fi nancial planner for campaigns and instilled in his daughter the importance of public service through government involvement. Wood applied this enthusiasm during her senior year of high school, when she interned for her district congressman and became a neighborhood party leader.

GOP primary candidate Ron

orey Scott is from coal

All the things you’ll ever need to know to vote in Blacksburg today page seven

class: 180. He’s seen firsthand how politicians have come in and affected his community, where coal mining is the major industry. As a newly declared freshman political science major, Scott has spent countless hours knocking on doors, making phone calls and campaigning for Mitt Romney. His grandfather was a member of the fi rst Young Republicans decades ago, so it wasn’t a surprise when Scott immediately became involved on campus with the College Republicans. see SCOTT / page three

Breaking down the Collegiate Times Election Poll results page eight

2 november 6, 2012

COLLEGIATETIMES

Whitley: “Democrat of Chilhowie” goes against the grain from page one

Despite the overwhelming Republican presence in Whitley’s hometown, he has always thought for himself. “A lot of my friends and family, sitting around a dinner table talking politics, they were subjected to their parents beliefs and took them as their own,” Whitley said. “I was able to take a step back, and look at things for myself.” Whitley found himself favoring Democratic policies for handling student debt. He even saw the principles of the party ref lective of his religious views. “I feel like the Democratic Party is painted as being anti-religion,” said Whitley. “But if you look at it closer, I feel the party represents my beliefs.” In 2008, Whitley assisted Democratic congressional representative Rick Boucher while also volunteering hours to campaign for Obama. Whitley wasted no time in becoming an active f igurehead for t he Democratic Party on Tech’s campus when he entered as a freshman last year. He started the organiza-

tion “Students for Obama” to generate buzz and gather volunteers to support the President’s re-election a year head of time. His hard work culminated in an opportunity Whitley couldn’t refuse: to meet the president earlier this year before a campaign rally. “I was ecstatic,” Whitley

“

Working on a local race, I know the people, I know how people think down here.” Andrew Whitley

said, remembering the day. Whitley was one of eight other “star volunteers” who were able to talk with the president briefly before the rally began. The president asked about Whitley’s hometown and his studies at Tech. “I told him I was from Chilhowie, and he kind of just raised his eyebrows, so I tried to describe the coal fields of Virginia,” Whitley recalled. “I still don’t know if he knew where I was from, but at least he nodded his head.”

In addition to his work on the national campaign, Whitley has also focused a lot of attention on the local race. Whitley was hired over the summer by Anthony Flaccavento’s 9th district congressional campaign as a political director and deputy field director. “Working on a local race, I know the people, I know how people think down here,” Whitley said. This work has meant full days for Whitley as the election has approached. He moves constantly from classes, to the downtown Montgomery County Democratic headquarters where he manages the office. “Then I’m organizing for our candidate, making sure our signs are out, making sure everybody’s happy. Then on top of that is schoolwork,” Whitley said. But for Whitley the work is worth it, he’s confident that his Democratic candidates will have secure victories. “I’m really confident (about Obama). The polls are tightening, but if you remember 2008, the polls were tight then, too,” Whitley said. Whitley only has subdued worries for congressional candidate Anthony

BRAD KLODOWSKI / SPPS Andrew Whitley has worked through election season on the campaign of local democratic candidate Anthony Flaccavento.

Flaccavento. “People aren’t taking our guy seriously,” Whitley said. “I believe a lot of political pundits are confident that (Griffith) is going to win.” Despite the media, Whitley has had positive feedback from locals. “Just talking to people from the northern end of the district, all the way down to the Tennessee-

Kentucky border, I’m still confident (in Flaccavento.)” Today as the polls open and results roll in, Whitley will be working a potential 24-hour workday, beginning at 3 a.m. Despite the hard work, he plans to continue campaigning over the coming years. His devotion to campaigning is deeper than any party affiliation.

“Our campaign managers says, all the time, that we’ve got a disease. (We’re) bitten by the political bug,” Whitley laughed. “It’s just wanting to make a difference and help people. And this is how I feel I can do that.” Follow this writer, Dean Seal, on Twitter: @jdseal92

Smith: Libertarian strives to change two-party system from page one

Most would never consider working in subzero temperatures or experiencing regular verbal abuse “fun,” but Smith learned to take it all in stride — just another day of sharing his passion for liberty and politics. Smith has come a long way from his family home in Ohio, where he grew up steadfastly supporting the Republican Party. An avid sportsman, Smith enjoys hunting and shooting. Like his father, he thought Republicans would best protect his gun rights. But the 2008 presidential race left Smith disillusioned. He watched the debates leading up to the Republican primary, and while the message of Ron Paul resonated with him the most, McCain came out the winner. “I voted for McCain. But the day after the election, when he had lost, I thought that I wouldn’t be that happy if he had won,” Smith said. The race was a turning point in Smith’s life. Smith wanted a candidate who would support his right to bear arms, but also fight against federal attempts to define marriage and to end the war on drugs. KEVIN DICKEL / SPPS Spurred by Paul’s message in Junior Eric Smith has revitalized the Libertarian club at Virginia Tech. the debates and by a libertarian

friend from his dorm, he decided to learn more. “I really liked the message Ron Paul was sending, so I read one of his books,” Smith said. “That’s when I realized I was a libertarian.” Before long, Smith had amassed a library of works by Paul and other libertarian writers. What he read inspired him to make the 10-hour road trip to Iowa to work for the Paul campaign before the 2012 caucuses, and to work for the Paul

club in disarray. Working with a few friends, Smith reorganized the Libertarians at Tech. The group has recently been incredibly active on campus, attracting the attention of Libertarian presidential candidate Gary Johnson’s campaign. Smith is the campus coordinator for Johnson’s campaign at Tech, and his club has been working hard this semester to promote Johnson’s run for the White House and to organize

“

It’s impossible to break through the two-party system right now. No one is delusional enough to think we are going to win. My main goal is to spread the message of small government and liberty.” Eric Smith

campaign in Virginia during the primary. Smith became the de facto head of Paul’s efforts in Blacksburg and surrounding areas. Paul won those primary elections in Montgomery County, and neighboring Craig, Floyd, and Pulaski counties. Though Paul lost the state to Romney, he received more than 40 percent of Virginia’s popular vote. At Virginia Tech, Smith tried to find a group that shared his politics, but he found the Libertarian

events to educate student voters. Johnson’s running mate, Jim Gray, spoke this semester to an audience of more than eighty — a turn-out that impressed Smith. The club has also organized voter registration and sign-waving events. They have recently begun door-to-door campaigning around Blacksburg. “We have a ton of materials, and I don’t want any of it sitting in someone’s apartment on Election Day,” Smith said. Working around schoolwork

and other commitments, Smith and his organization have visited several thousand homes in the last week. The club’s strong sense of community helps to keep them motivated, even in the face of obstacles and without the fiscal and logistical support to which Republican and Democratic organizations have access. Libertarian ideas, Smith said, are tied down with chains. “It’s impossible to break through the two-party system right now. No one is delusional enough to think we are going to win,” Smith said. “My main goal is to spread the message of small government and liberty.” Smith would like to see his party become part of mainstream political conversations. If Johnson could garner enough votes to get the attention of the media, which Smith sees as dominated by the two major parties, that would be enough. “To me, it’s just insanity. And I want to point that out to everyone I can,” Smith said, throwing his arms up in frustration. “The system is broken. It’s broken when you have to decide between the lesser of two evils. If people voted for who they really believed in, we could see real change in this country.” Follow this writer, Andrew Kulak, on Twitter: @Kulak_CT

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COLLEGIATETIMES

Scott: Student advocates for struggling hometown from page one

His high school government class was his favorite, and he often discusses politics with complete strangers. He has found his niche here in Blacksburg. Scott’s hometown of Wise County is tucked away in the farthest corner of southwest Virginia. It shares a border with West Virginia, and is in the heart of Appalachia. It was built from the ground up around coal. Several of Scott’s friends chose not to go to college, and head straight to the mines. “When it flourished back in the day, people wanted to live in Wise County,” Scott said. All of that has changed since Obama’s taken office and more regulations on the industry have passed, making it harder for coal towns like Wise to thrive. The poverty rate in Wise has skyrocketed to almost 20 percent. Suddenly, businesses like that of Scott’s step-father were struggling to stay afloat and the group of Scott’s friends that decided to forego college to work in the mines were already being laid off. Scott believes Mitt Romney has the best plan for coal, and will benefit his town the most. “Romney wants to harvest the coal industry and take advantage of the natural resources we have,” he said. Th is could create jobs for his hometown, and bring money back to an area that is eco-

nomically struggling “They’re proud of what they do; these are third generation miners,” Scott said, his passion evidence in his voice. “They want to be working hard to support their families. They don’t want the government to pay them.” Volunteering five days a week for the past eight weeks, Scott has jumped head-first into the campaign. “It’s been a fun process. The more involved you get, the more fi rsthand experience you get seeing how the political process works,” Scott said. Meeting people and educating them has been the primary goal Scott has set for himself. “It’s nice to go out and meet people and really inform people who desire to be informed,” he said. As a first-time voter, Scott tries to stress the importance of this election, and how politics affect students’ life. No matter whom you’re voting for, becoming informed and educated is always a priority for him. “It’s our right and privilege to vote,” Scott said. BRAD KLADOWSKI / SPPS After campaigning for days, Corey Scott sits at his ofﬁ ce in Romney’s “Victory” Ofﬁ ce where he has worked all semester on the presidential candidates campaign. all of Scott’s hard work had fi nally paid off. Blacksburg. hard to get Romney elected. already looking ahead. The he’s doing is helping his He had the honor of being “Romney thanked me for The College Republicans will madness will start again on hometown friends. a greeter at the Roanoke everything I was doing, and be doing voter outreach and Nov. 8 when campaigning for “What I’ve gained out of this rally Mitt Romney held said that the grassroots effort working the polls, trying to the gubernatorial race begins. experience and the friends on Friday, where he got going on is what’s making talk to as many people as they Whether Romney wins or I’ve made, I know it all won’t to meet and talk with the this election possible for can before the election is over loses, Scott’s passion and be wasted,” Scott said. former Massachusetts gov- him,” Scott said. with. dedication has been a tesFollow this writer, Cameron ernor about the work he Suddenly, Scott’s mission Even as election season tament to his Appalachian had been doing in couldn’t be clearer: work draws to a close, Scott is roots, knowing everything Austin, on Twitter: @CAustinCT

Wood: SGA rep driven by principles of democracy from page one

That year, she spent her time planning financial and fundraising dinners, calling people to ask for donations, entering data and simply asking people in the community if they were registered to vote. Even after totaling her car in the middle of the internship, she insisted on continuing by relying on friends and family to take her to the campaign office. Her mom picked her up every day. “I was happy (my mom) valued it as much as I did, even with other children and other things going on...she would still pick me up and allow me to do that,” Wood said. But this year, Wood hasn’t been working for a particular campaign, and she won’t even say what party she’s affiliated with. Her primary goal this election season has been registering students, regardless of who they’ll vote for. Wood is a junior and the Director of Governmental Affairs for the Student Government Association. When she first took the position, it wasn’t mandatory she would be responsible for registering voters, but she took the mission upon herself. “Initially, I just started thinking about what (the SGA) wanted to do this year regarding the elections,” Wood said. “I really

just decided we wanted to create a campaign that instilled a provoting culture on campus.” To do that, Wood spent her summer in Blacksburg planning for the start of the school year. In July and August, she spoke to people in the area once or twice a week from different parties to establish a partnership. She spent long hours calling dif-

“

I really just decided we wanted to create a campaign that instilled a pro-voting culture on campus.” Erica Wood

ferent parties, sending emails and visiting offices — her hard work didn’t go unnoticed. Wood became one of eight people to speak with Vice President Joe Biden during his visit to campus over the summer. “We spoke to him for about 20 minutes on the impact students had on the campaign,” Wood said. She said she teared up when she spoke to Biden about education access for students. “I was unable to pay for classes last fall and I was purged from classes and didn’t get credit,” Wood said. “So, that was a really

hard time for me and now with all of these new loans and grants and things like that I’m able to go to school.” Wood carried that memory as she progressed with preparing for voter registration on campus. One week before the drive was set to kick-off, Wood experienced a serious set-back when she learned about the liability that came with registering people to vote. Wood met with the Attorney of Student Legal Services to discuss SGA insurance for the drive. “She told us that it’s a felony if you mess up registering people to vote, so we had to move through the steps and talk to the insurance companies to see what they covered,” Wood said. Wood, who had already had everything planned and volunteers in place for the drive, became concerned about the feasibility. “We realized that if we mess up, not only SGA, but individuals can be held accountable and charged with felonies, so that was kind of a freak out,” Wood said. Through tirelessly working with legal services Wood was able to expand SGA’s insurance plan without delaying the drive. With everything set to go, Wood began to implement the plan. “All of September and October

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Erica Wood has worked ceaselessly all semester to make sure Virginia Tech students are registered. I put off a lot more schoolwork “I think it’s critical for people “I know we have 200 more that I should have,” Wood said. our age to get our voice heard,” people who will get their voice “The first two weeks of October, she said. “I think it’s so impor- forward,” Wood said. “The more I would spend three or four tant for students to stand up for students that vote, the more the hours a day (working for the things we want for our genera- student voice can be heard as a drive).” tion and the future.” conglomerate.” She organized registration In the end, Wood’s determibooths around campus, debate nation meant at least 200 more Follow this writer, Priscilla screenings and a campus candi- students were registered on cam- Alvarez, on Twitter: @priscialva date forum. pus.

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opinions

4 november 6, 2012

COLLEGIATETIMES

Obama gives college students bright future

Romney would save American economy

ith Election Day upon us, it is critical we genuinely evaluate what we want as students, and as part of this country as a whole. With that in mind, we must go to the polls knowing the choice we must make has never been so starkly diverse, nor more clear. As America’s youth and a beacon of the incoming middle class, the most sensible choice for students to make at the polls is to reelect President Barack Obama. Across the board, Obama offers our demographic — and the other most critical demographics — the best foot forward for our future. For students looking to enter the workplace for the first time on a legitimate career path, Obama’s current and proposed policies offer the brightest horizon. They alleviate pressure on the middle class, while making the transition into the workplace easier with tax cuts and extending health insurance coverage to young adults under their parent’s plans until they are 26. Obama is prepared to make necessary decisions on contraception issues and give women the support they need as young adults — decisions critical for female students about to launch careers. They need to know they will have a network for support if childbearing occurs at an inopportune time, and the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act gives women voters hope that one day, they will be as competitive in the workplace as men. This is legislation disavowed by those in Republican administrations. Also important for the nation’s future is an invigorated manufacturing sector, which is perhaps the economic highlight of Obama’s administration. Mitt Romney was a vocal opponent of the auto industry’s bailout, and as America’s automotive sector has once again taken the top spot worldwide, Romney’s assessment on American manufacturing casts

he country and economic future are at stake here. GDP is 2 percent. China’s is 7.2 percent. Unemployment is 8 percent, but it is really nearly 12 percent if you include all of the people who dropped out of the labor force. What President Barack Obama is doing for America is making you worse off. Barack Obama’s vision for the future involves three things: 1. Big government. He proposed his budget plan last week, and it involved the creation of a new Business Administration. What an idea. We already have the Chamber of Commerce, and the Small Business Administration. 2. Investments. Investment is a different way of saying “borrow more money from China to pump into green energy and education.” Obama has a record of picking losers; a prime example is Solyndra, a California solar-power company. It was a taxpayer-funded waste of $528 million. 3. Entitlements. Increasing the size and scope of government so each and every person is more and more dependent on it. A handout isn’t a job. And borrowing 40 cents of every dollar to pay for that entitlement isn’t financially sound. All these things draw our country away from its original vision of freedom from oppression and individual liberty. As stated in the Constitution, the Creator endows our rights, not the government. That’s what Gov. Mitt Romney and Rep. Paul Ryan want to do for America: restore America’s greatness by bringing us back to principles of limited government. What’s Ryan’s strength? Math. As house budget committee chairman, he proposed a plan that restructures the

clouded judgment on his ability to make tough decisions that save jobs. In addition, Romney’s proposed tax code is a cause for concern. At first glance, tax cuts across the board can be appealing. But there is no substance behind that first glance. The proposal is missing critical details beyond “cut taxes, shrink government,” and many experts have provided data saying his tax plan is mathematically impossible. Reducing debt and economic recovery cannot be propagated without some kind of increase in revenue. As much as Romney wants to utter the words, “We’re all in this together,” his proposals put most of the weight on those in the middle class, who must concede more to balance the budget. Again, these proposals have been called mathematically impossible. When Obama speaks of national unity — and everybody being in it together — he asks the wealthiest Americans to pay a fairer share. These Americans see most of their income on investment returns taxed at much lower rates than what the average American pays out of their working, living wages. Obama calls for critical investment in education and energy, to make upcoming Americans more competitive in the global workplace and cut America’s reliance on foreign energy. These actions work twofold, reducing our costs in foreign investment and creating jobs here in America. When you evaluate the picture as a whole, Obama has presented the best course forward for America. Prospects for the future of the younger generation entering the workplace are best attainable under Obama’s policies and the choice for president this Election Day couldn’t be clearer. -Eric Jones, regular columnist

its political “losses” pale in comparison to standing too tall and seeing absolutely nothing get accomplished in terms of meaningful legislation. A Mitt Romney presidency, on the other hand, will most likely divide our Congress even more than it is today. Despite his full-court press on undecided voters over the past few weeks, issuing statements about bipartisanship and working with the other side to come to a consensus on hot issues, the reality is his proposed policies are too far right to have any chance of seeing liberal support in Congress. An immediate repeal of Obamacare is nearly impossible without any kind of bipartisan support, and any kind of subversive legislation or even an executive order would amount to nothing even close to bipartisanship. Romney’s legacy for bipartisanship as governor is dim. He used the Massachusetts health care system, various tax cuts and a strong educational system in Massachusetts as evidence of his ability to reach across the aisle. All of this done in a state Congress made up by 87 percent Democratic legislators. While these accomplishments seem impressive at fi rst, it is important to note the health care system is a liberal idea, and much of the educational progress was a result of policies passed during administrations before Romney’s. His Achilles heel in his record is the nearly 800 overturned vetoes during his four years as governor. Nearly 800 times Romney vetoed a law only to see his largely Democratic state congress push the proposed legislation into law anyway. Th is is not bipartisanship. Th is is getting muscled into policy Romney never wanted in the fi rst place. These are the realities voters should be aware of as they vote, particularly if they are concerned about the severe partisanship dividing Congress. Romney only evokes a larger schism. Obama has proven that he tries to close the gap. ERIC JONES -regular columnist -psychology major -senior

-Sally Brady, regular columnist

Obama needs to compromise with Republicans to pass laws

Romney’s record shows lack of bipartisanship, compromise phrase politicians like to throw around in the political landscape today, quite recklessly, is “bipartisan support.” It is true that bipartisanship is necessary for a functioning government. Without it, legislation grinds to a frustrating halt. The President is most often commended for how the government churns out legislation with support from both sides of the aisle and blamed when neither side — Democratic nor Republican — can get anything substantial accomplished while in session. With that in mind, our current president, Barack Obama, has brought the most to the table in the “bipartisan support” environment. Many liberal supporters, politicians and voters alike, have expressed concern that Obama has not accomplished enough and that he has struggled to go far enough with policy to advance the liberal agenda. With a deeply divided Congress, people neglect to acknowledge concessions must be made to garner enough support from the Republican Party to pass meaningful legislation. When health care reform was in its infancy at the dawn of Obama’s term, many liberals cried for a single-payer “universal” health care system, resembling some of the successful systems found in Europe. But the cost of such a system, as well as the commitment many Republicans have made to never raise taxes per the Taxpayer Protection Pledge made popular by conservative activist Grover Norquist, sparked intense refusal by Republicans to never accept such legislation. Concessions were made, many with encouragement from Obama, and the current health care system passed through Congress with just enough support from conservative politicians for the legislation to become a reality. Obama’s pledge to cut taxes for the middle class and small businesses is hardly policy that lines up on only one side of the congressional split. As it stands, Obama’s perceived “weakness” in the minds of even the most moderate liberals is perhaps more aptly described as a sincere attempt to make sure that both sides of the table get at least a piece of what they want. Loosening the grip on your demands in order to get something accomplished is a sample of modesty, and

budget and entitlements so Medicare and Medicaid will be there for us. What’s Romney’s strength? He’s a problem solver and has a record of turning unprofitable businesses around. As CEO, he resurrected the 2002 Winter Olympics from the brink of financial collapse by turning a $379 million debt to a $100 million surplus. In preparation for the presidency, Romney has devised a simple fivepoint plan to help government move forward. 1. Energy. Gain energy independence by using our resources at home. This means opening the Keystone Pipeline, something Obama refused to approve. 2. Trade. Put in place trade that works for America. This means being tough on China, a currency manipulator. 3. Education. Make sure Americans gain skills in areas that meet the demands of our economy. 4. Taxes and deficit. Cut the deficit, reduce the size and scope of government, remove tax loopholes and reduce all tax rates. 5. Small business. Cut red tape and reduce taxes for small businesses, which provide 60 percent of new jobs in America. With the exception of the first presidential debate against Romney — a debate Obama lost — Obama sounds pretty good on TV. But when you go to the polls, keep in the forefront of your mind that Obama doubled the national debt in four years. It could easily be $10 trillion by the time he leaves. And that is a burden we will be paying in taxes each and every day until we die. Think about that, and go plan your spring break vacation.

T LUCAS ECKERT / COLLEGIATE TIMES

Our Views [staff editorial]

merican governement is a balance of three values: Medicade voucher program would also cause inequality in the equality, freedom and security. But these values often healthcare realm because seniors with less income would be conflict, leading to the type of severe partisanship disadvantaged.

that plagues Washington today.

President Barack Obama and the Democrats would aim to

President Barack Obama and Gov. Mitt Romney represent maximize equality through the social welfare programs like starkly different balances of these values, and starkly different PPACA and protecting the current Medicare and Social Security paths for America, and that is why it is crucial to vote.

structures. But, these exist at the detriment of some freedoms.

Romney and the Republicans seek to maximize freedom. Regulations such as the Dodd-Frank Act and increased taxes Their policies of reducing the size and scope of government and limit both corporate and individual freedoms. Even PPACA limiting bureaucracy are a plan to spur economic growth. Jobs would limit the freedom to choose or not to choose healthcare. and wages themselves are a form of freedom to pursue happi-

style of growth, which is achieved by eliminating programs crucial that every vote is cast.

SALLY BRADY -regular columnist -agricultural and applied economics -graduate student

For more views, check the

Pollsters show a dead heat with both candidates with 47 percent

Obamacare —g would reduce equality in terms of access to of the general population, with neither being a clear winner. healthcare. It would particularly affect those under the age of

However, his failure to reach out to Republicans and ask them how bills would need to be changed in order to gain their support will indubitably be his biggest challenge over the next four years. Unless Obama wants a standstill for the four next years, in which no new laws are passed, he will have to compromise with the Republican majorities. The president is going to have to take advice from Clinton and give the Republicans some of the things they want. If he does not, it is unlikely he will garner enough support from Republicans to pass any Democrat-proposed legislation. Maybe if he had reached out to gain bipartisanship earlier in his administration, Republicans would be more willing to come to agreements now. If Obama wins, he will just sit back and blame Republicans for their lack of support on Democrat-proposed legislation but fail to compromise with Republicans on any of their proposed legislation. If reelected and without compromising with Republicans, Obama will likely accomplish very little.

Every American knows what values matter to them most and

ness, and also increases freedom from intrusion. However, that which vision they want to see come to fruition. That is why it is like the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act — dubbed

o understand bipartisanship, one must understand the branches of the U.S. government and how Congress works. First of all, there are three branches: the Legislative Branch (House of Representatives and Senate), the Executive Branch (President and Vice President), and the Judicial Branch (Supreme Court). Representatives and senators introduce a bill about a certain issue, and it is then passed to the subcommittee representing said issue. If it gains enough support, it will be voted on in the House of Representatives or the Senate, depending on where it was introduced. If the bill passes with a majority in both the House and the Senate, it will go to the president to be signed into law. The “dream job” situation for a new president is what President Barack Obama had when he first came into office: a 60 percent filibusterproof Democratic majority in the Senate and a Democratic majority in the House of Representatives. With both Democratic majorities, Obama had no trouble passing anything he wanted. In the 2010 election, the Republicans gained 60 seats in the House of Representatives and achieved a majority. Republicans gained seats in the Senate, but fell short of a majority by 10 seats. During his first two years in office, Obama took the majorities to his advantage.

What matters to you? The stakes are high, and the visions are

Opinions section online at

26, as well as those who lack access to decent jobs — often due incompatible. Every vote counts as the government considers its to inequality in education and other factors. And the proposed role in society.

collegiatetimes.com

The Collegiate Times is an independent studentrun newspaper serving the Virginia Tech community since 1903 Collegiate Times Editorial Staff Editor in Chief: Michelle Sutherland Managing Editor: Nick Cafferky Design Editors: Andrea Ledesma, Alicia Tillman Public Editor: Erin Chapman Web Editor: Chelsea Gunter News Editors: Mallory NoePayne, Victoria Zigadlo News Reporters: Priscilla Alvarez, Dean Seal, Cameron Austin, Donal Murphy Features Editors: Emma Goddard, Nick Smirniotopoulos Features Staff Writers: Ben Kim, Katie White, Kara Van Scoyc, Allie Sivak, Jacob Wilbanks Opinions Editors: Josh Higgins, Bethany Melson Photo Editor: Kevin Dickel Sports Editors: Matt Jones, Zach Mariner Special Sections Editors: Cody Elliot, Danielle Buynak Copy Chief: Nora McGann Copy Editors: Allison Hedrick, Kristin Gunter Collegiate Times Business Staff Business Manager: Ryan Francis Circulation Manager: Travis Neale Student Publications Photo Staff Director of Photography: Brad Klodowski College Media Solutions Assistant Ad Director: Carla Craft Account Executives: Elizabeth Dam, Emily Daugherty, Taylor Moran Inside Sales Manager: Amanda Gawne Assistant Account Executives: Andrew Newton, Jordan Williams Creative Director: Danielle Bushrow Assistant Creative Services Director: Alyssa Morrison Creative Staff: Mary Dassira, Diana Bayless Voice your opinion. Readers are encouraged to send letters to the Collegiate Times. 365 Squires Student Center Blacksburg, VA, 24061 Fax: (540) 231-9151 opinionseditor@collegiatetimes.com All letters to the editor must include a name and daytime phone number. Students must include year and major. Faculty and staff must include position and department. All other submissions must include city of residence, and if applicable, relationship to Virginia Tech (i.e., alumni, parent, etc.). All letters should be in MS Word (.doc) format, if possible. Letters, commentaries and editorial cartoons do not reflect the views of the Collegiate Times. Editorials are written by the Collegiate Times editorial board, which is composed of the opinions editors, editor-in-chief and the managing editors. Letters to the editor are submissions from Collegiate Times readers. We reserve the right to edit for any reason. Anonymous letters will not be printed. Have a news tip? Call or text 200-TIPS or e-mail newstips@collegiatetimes.com Collegiate Times Newsroom 231-9865 Editor-in-Chief 231-9867 College Media Solutions Advertising 961-9860 The Collegiate Times, a division of the Educational Media Company at Virginia Tech, was established in 1903 by and for the students of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. The Collegiate Times is published every Tuesday through Friday of the academic year except during exams and vacations. The Collegiate Times receives no direct funding from the university. The Collegiate Times can be found online at www.collegiatetimes.com. Except where noted, all photographs were taken by the Student Publications Photo Staff. To order a reprint of a photograph printed in the Collegiate Times, visit reprints.collegemedia.com. The first copy is free, any copy of the paper after that is 50 cents per issue. © Collegiate Times, 2012. All rights reserved. Material published in the Collegiate Times is the property thereof, and may not be reprinted without the express written consent of the Collegiate Times.

november 6, 2012

Regular Edition GET INSIDE THE GAME

Today’s Birthday Horoscope: Despite chaos from Mercury’s retrograde, you’re in the limelight this year. Use your influence wisely for the greatest impact. Income, status and audience grow steadily, shifting toward educational exploration after June. Stay grounded with exercise, healthy food and love.

Piled Higher and Deeper by Jorge Cham Quote of the Day

“The pure and simple truth is rarely pure and never simple.” - Oscar Wilde

Send us your quote and see it here! creative.services@collegemedia.com

XKDC by Randall Monroe

6 9 2 8 1 7 6 8 3 5 4 6 7 8 4 5 2 3 4 9 1 7 6 5 4 8 2 7 Complete the grid so that each column, row and 3x3 box contains the numbers 1-9. For a greater challege see how fast you can complete the puzzle. Copyright 2007 Puzzles by Pappocom Solution, tips and computer program at www.sudoku.com

By Pete Muller

Week ending November 9, 2012

ACROSS 1 Puts a little too close to the flame 7 Does away with 11 Spirit 14 Set straight 15 Narrow space 16 Pay add-on 17 Where many changes occur 18 August 20 Boast à la Donald Trump? 22 Patriot Act protesters: Abbr. 24 Malt finish? 25 Goddess of motherhood

Top Tracks (1) 1

Gangnam Style • PSY Locked Out of Heaven • Bruno Mars

2 (3) 3

Die Young • Ke$ha

Some Nights • Fun.

(5) 5

One More Night • Maroon 5

11/6/12 26 “Our overly fussy friend has a point”? 31 Wasikowska of “The Kids Are All Right” 32 “Trinity” novelist 33 Union agreement 34 Fiber source 36 Illegal pitch 40 “Have some” 41 Kid on “The Cosby Show” 42 Big name in ’40s’50s Argentina 43 Joplin piece about modern weaponry?

WORDSEARCH: Election Day Locate the list of words in the word bank in the letter grid. P

WORD BANK

OBAMA ROMNEY DEMOCRAT REPUBLICAN NOVEMBER PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON DC FIFTY SEVEN ELECTION CANDIDATE UNITED STATES ELEPHANT DONKEY BIDEN VOTE TERM

C W N

47 Went under 48 Emulate Eminem 49 Irascibility 50 Delay from an 18th-century English ruler? 55 LA and MI, but not DO or RE 56 Gas up? 59 NRC predecessor 60 It can get you credit in a store 61 Shrink, in a way 62 “The __ of Pooh”: ’80s best-seller 63 “Right away, Mammy”

64 It’s zero in freefall—and, put another way, a hint to how the four longest puzzle answers were formed DOWN 1 Religious org., perhaps 2 George’s lyricist 3 Show little interest in, as food 4 Get ready for action 5 Sicilian resort 6 Unaccompanied 7 Biology text topic 8 Roadside attention getters 9 Water brand named for its source 10 Dam up 11 Fertilizer substance 12 Draw forth 13 Treaties 19 Water source 21 Surround with dense mist 22 Spherical opening? 23 Hirsute pet 27 Like the sticks 28 Sizzling 29 More fleshy, perhaps 30 Under the weather, e.g.

35 Anouilh play made into a Burton/O’Toole film 36 It’s not always easy to get into 37 “Tootsie” Oscar nominee 38 Assessment, for short 39 Popular trend 41 Pontiac muscle car

43 Sartre work 44 Paris-based cultural org. 45 “Gunsmoke” star 46 Popular purveyor of stromboli 47 Zippo 51 Deep blue 52 Play to __ 53 Named names 54 Two pages 57 Front-of-bk. list 58 Cote girl

Friday’s Puzzle Solved

11/2/12

HOKIE

presents... HAPPENINGS Have some free time this week? Check out our hottest show, Hokie Happenings, to hear the latest buzz around Blacksburg! Channel 33 Follow VTTV

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GET INSIDE THE GAME WITH FLORIDA STATE - NOVEMBER 8TH, 2012

november 6, 2012

COLLEGIATETIMES

FIND YOUR BALLOT

’S

C RE BLACKSBURG COMMUNITY CENTER 725 PATRICK HENRY DRIVE

AD RO

THERE ARE SIX POLLING PLACES LOCATED IN THE IMMEDIATE BLACKSBURG AREA

TR PA

REMEMBER!

ROA RY MARGARET BEEKS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 709 AIRPORT ROAD

O T R AD

COMMONWEALTH’S MARY PETTIT - Republican PEGGY GRANK - Democrat ATTORNEY

BLACKSBURG HIGH SCHOOL 3109 PRICES FORK ROAD

ANTHONY FLACCAVENTO Democrat H. MORGAN GRIFFITH - Republican

US HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

ICE

AD RO

TIMOTHY M. KAINE - Democrat GEORGE ALLEN - Republican

K OR

US SENATE

CAMPUS

BLACKSBURG LIBRARY 200 MILLER AVENUE

BARACK OBAMA - Democrat MITT ROMNEY - Republican VIRGIL GOODE - Constitution GARY JOHNSON - Libertarian JILL STEIN - Green

S F O R K R OA D

CANDIDATE-PARTY

ICE

TE R STA

PRESIDENT & VP

OFFICE

LUTHER MEMORIAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 600 PRICES FORK ROAD

DRIVERS LICENSE VOTER REGISTRATION CARD HOKIE PASSPORT

WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR BALLOT

GILBERT LINKOUS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 813 TOMS CREEK ROAD

IC K

VIRGINIA STATE LAW REQUIRES CITIZENS TO PRESENT AN ID BEFORE VOTING. VALID FORMS OF IDENTIFICATION INCLUDE:

STILL LOST? IF YOU REGISTERED TO VOTE IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY, YOU CAN FIND YOUR POLLING PLACE LISTED ON YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION CARD. ALTERNATIVELY, YOU CAN CALL (540) 382-5741. ANDREA LEDESMA / COLLEGIATE TIMES

here are two amendments to the state constitution on the ballot in Virginia. These amendments have

MORE INFORMATION

already been approved by a majority of both legislative houses. If an amendment is approved by a

For live election coverage, follow the Collegiate Times on Twitter @collegiatetimes or with #swvavotes

majority of Virginia voters, it will become part of the state’s constitution. The two amendments would… 1) … prohibit state and local governments in Virginia from seizing private property for private development. Currently, governments can exercise eminent domain, meaning they force citizens to sell property, to use for public projects, such as roads or schools. However, a 2005 Supreme Court case held it is also permissible for government to use eminent domain for private development, such as a shopping mall, that would provide jobs or help encourage economic growth in an area. This amendment would restrict the government from exercising eminent domain for private development. It also defi nes more specifically how government must compensate people from whom it takes property and it prohibits taking more property than is necessary. 2) … allow the state’s General Assembly to delay its reconvened or “veto” session by up to one week. At the end of each legislative session the GA reconvenes to consider bills the Governor has sent back, by vetoing or suggesting changes. Currently that session must begin on the sixth Wednesday following the end of a legislative session. Th is amendment would give the legislature added flexibility in accommodating holidays, if necessary.

Lifestyle & Community have a big announcement, selling things, need help?

To catch up on our #CAMPAIGN COUNTDOWN: bit.ly/VwfNpZ

Free for VT students! Place an ad or announcement at collegiatetimes.com, visit our business office at 618 N. Main St. 9am - 5pm, Monday - Friday, or call 540.961.9860. Students can come into 618 N. Main St. to place a free ad.

AMENDMENT BRIEFS Rates as low as 32 cents per word, contingent on the number of days to run. Prepaid. 15 word minimum. Cash, check, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. Deadline: 3pm 3 business days prior to publication.

Notices HOME HEATING FUELS Bell Oil Company serves all of the New River Valley and surrounding areas. Call us for best prices and prompt service!. www. belloilcompany.com 540.381.1023

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tip of the week

DON’T FORGET

LESSON 1: GREEN DRIVING MACHINE

TO PICK UP THE

QUESTION: ANSWER:

• Drive Green – Recognize that how you drive has a lot to do with fuel economy. Avoid sudden starts and stops and go the speed limit. Jerky and aggressive driving decreases your miles per gallon (MPG) and increases wear and tear on your vehicle. Minimize unnecessary miles by combining errands in one trip.

COLLEGIATE TIMES TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Your reputation is growing. Discover forgotten treasures. It’s not a good time to travel, sign or sell. Watch out for misunderstandings for the next three weeks. Revise and re ine.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Take a break from routine. Review and resolve career issues; sort, ile and organize. Pad your schedule and wallet for the unexpected.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Review your conclusions. Follow the advice of friends. Postpone negotiations. You already have what you need. Give a little to get a little.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Don’t gamble. Delegate to a perfectionist. Your fans think you’re brilliant. It’s natural to renew old bonds. Postpone travel, and provide excellent service. Vote.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Follow the money trail. Act on reliable information. Ask probing questions. You have valuable resources hidden. Listen carefully. Choose to participate. You matter.

Aries (March 21-April 19) Kind words empower others. You can solve the puzzle. Rely on a wise partner. Watch out for fouled-up orders through the end of the month. Mercury goes retrograde today.

How can I make my car environmentally friendly?

JOIN OUR TEAM!

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Consider an outrageous, but unpro itable, request. Hold out for the best deal. For about three weeks, inetune your routine at work, and apply creativity. Go with what works. Gemini (May 21-June 20) Private effort pays off, revealing a new view. Your choice matters. Provide for others. Over the next month, revisit past creative ideas. Your good luck holds. Proceed with caution. Cancer (June 21-July 22) Accept encouragement without letting a loud person hurt your feelings. Check out an interesting suggestion. Speak out and be counted. Stick to the basics.

APPLY NOW AT

collegemedia.com/join creative.services@collegemedia.com

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Ask questions. Consider an outrageous possibility. You can afford to ix things; make your home more comfortable. Reaf irm commitments, and balance work with pleasure. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) You’re most successful over the next month, playing games you know well. Make sure you have all of the facts. Record your choice. Postpone an outing or launch. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Don’t bend the rules. If in doubt, ask an expert. A win-win outcome is possible. There’s less urgency and more repetition for the next few weeks. Stick up for your view.

• Check Tire Pressure – Each year, about two billion gallons of gas could be saved if the tires on every American’s car were properly inflated. Optimal tire pressure for your vehicle is listed in the owner’s manual. Tires that are not properly inflated add rolling resistance that makes the engine work harder to move the vehicle. All of this increases fuel costs as much as three to five cents per gallon, and increases the risk of engine damage. • Get a Tune-Up – Regular tune-ups, maintenance and having clean air filters will help your car pollute less and burn less gas. With a proper tune-up, you can save four percent on the cost of gas and up to 40 percent by replacing a faulty oxygen sensor. Simply changing the car’s air filter can improve efficiency by 10%. • Lighten the Load – Get the junk out of the trunk and the stuff out of your car, with the exception of emergency items such as a spare tire, flares and a first-aid kit. Extra items weigh the vehicle down and cause an increase in gas usage. • Gas Caps and Fill-Ups – Check your vehicle’s gas cap. Loose, damaged or missing gas caps cause millions of gallons of gas to evaporate into the air each year. Topping off your gas tank when filling up can also release harmful vapors into the environment. -www.carcare.org

YOUR AD HERE! sponsor the car care tip of the week to help readers know where to go

advertising@collegemedia.com

8 november 6, 2012

COLLEGIATETIMES

1,770

members of the Virginia Tech community responded.

The 1,770 was made up of:

Of that, 92% plan to vote in this year’s election. 1%

Graduate 1% Agriculture & Studies No Answer Life Sciences University Studies 3% 9%

52% 47% Female Male

By gender: 51% Obama 38% Romney 3% Johnson .007% Stein 4% N/A

No Answer

24%

and

Pamplin College of Business 12% Natural Resources & Environment

Engineering

Science

Barack Obama

49% 7% 1% Gary Johnson

Other: 1% None: 4%

58% are voting differently than their parents 19% are voting the same as their parents 16% parents’ votes are split between candidates 5% parents don’t vote 1% gave no answer

Obama 46% Romney 36% Johnson 11% Stein .007% N/A 4% DANIELLE BUYNAK/ COLLEGIATE TIMES

in Blacksburg at home other

By college: Engineering 45% Obama 37% Romney 13% Johnson

Graduate Studies 67% Obama 27% Romney 0% Johnson

Jill Stein

By doing so,

They are registered to vote:

Veterinary Medicine

12%

As a whole, they are voting for: 37%

0% 25%

Architecture & Urban Studies

Mitt Romney

Liberal Arts & Human Sciences

39% 56% 5%

Agriculture & Liberal Arts & Life Sciences Human Sciences 48% Obama 45% Romney 57% Obama 3% Johnson 34% Romney 4% Johnson Architecture & Veterinary Urban Studies Medicine 60% Obama 43% Obama 28% Romney 57% Romney 5% Johnson 0% Johnson Business 34% Obama 53% Romney Science 8% Johnson 56% Obama 33% Romney University 7% Johnson Studies 51% Obama Natural 47% Romney Resources & 2% Johnson Environment 55% Obama 33% Romney 4% Johnson