California State University, Bakersfield
October 21, 2020
Vol. 46, No. 5
Voting: What you need to know By Jennifer Samano Features Writer With presidential elections approaching and early voting now available in some California counties, millions of newly eligible voters are getting ready to cast their ballots for the very first time. First time voters make up 21% of the voting population in the United States, yet these newcomers are also the group least likely to register to vote and cast their ballot, according to the Student Training & Education in Public Service (STEPS) writes. There are many things voters should know before voting for the first time, such as determining their eligibility, when and where to vote, and learning about the candidates and propositions. This may appear overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Combing through expert advice, here are five tips to help first-time voters navigate the polls: How to register
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Registering to vote is often a simple process, but that varies from state-to-state. Voter registration is not federally managed, therefore each state sets its own requirements and deadlines for voters to register, according to Genevieve Carlton with Accredited Online Schools. The three most common
registration options are: in-person with some states allowing you to register at the DMV or by participating in a voter registration event, online by filling out a registration form on your state’s official website which 38 states and Washington D.C. currently allow, and by mail by visiting the United States Election Assistance
Commission and printing out a National Mail Voter Registration form. According to the County of Kern Elections Division website, if eligible to vote and you meet all the qualifications, you may register to vote online through the California Voter Registration website or by visiting the following locations in Kern County and picking
up a registration form in person. You may visit fire stations, U.S. Post Offices, DMV offices and public libraries. You can also visit the Kern County Elections Division office located at 1115 Truxton Avenue, 1st floor Bakersfield, CA. 93301 or by phone at (661) 868-3590 or 1-800-452VOTE (8683). Verify the credibility of sources when researching When doing research, it is important to keep in mind that not all sources are created equally. Zachary Fagenson, an independent journalist, writes that voters should seek out trusted and transparent sources. His recommendations include reputable research journals and news outlets, publications with data citations, and research organizations partnering with academic institutions. Websites ending in “.org” or “.edu” are a good place for voters to start looking for information. Vote411.org, recipient of
the 2020 People’s Voice Winner Webby Award, is a voters’ guide with personalized voting information to see what’s on an individual’s ballot, where their polling place is, listings of upcoming debate and forums in their area and more. Confirm what documents you need on election day Before election day, voters should look into their state’s rules and regulations. Carlton writes that everyone should check when they can vote, as most states offer early voting. While most polling locations remain open for at least 12 hours to help guarantee every voter has an opportunity to cast their ballot, some states require employers to let employees vote on Election Day. In the state of California, first time voters should plan on showing ID at the polls if they didn’t include a driver’s license number, California ID number, or the last four digits of a so-
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October 21, 2020
Prop 16 would allow affirmative action in colleges, universities By Ray Dean Reporter Californian voters will be wrestling with how to define discrimination when they vote on Proposition 16. It is an issue Californians have tangled with since at least as long as it has been a state. In 1850, Calif. became the thirty-first state in the Union while Congress and Californians argued whether it should enter as a free or slave-holding state. Issues of race and discrimination have long played a role in how Californians define themselves. Proposition 16 is once again asking Californian voters to address this issue and repeal an amendment to the State Constitution, allowing affirmative action to play a role in State employment, education, and contract decisions. In 1996, Ward Connerly, a member of the University of California board of regents, led the movement in Calif. to pass Proposition 209 banning affirmative action in the state.
Californians approved the proposition by the vote of 54% in favor to 45% opposed. By passing Proposition 209 Californians amended the Constitution by adding section 31(a)-(h) to Article I of the California State Constitution. (a) The state shall not discriminate against, or grant preferential treatment to, any individual or group on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in the operation of public employment, public education, or public contracting. (f) For the purposes of this section, “state” shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, the state itself, any city, county, city and county, public university system, including the University of California, community college district, school district, special district, or any other political subdivision or governmental instrumentality of or within the state. On June 24, 2020 after passing in the California State assembly, the state senate approved along par-
ty lines California Assembly Constitutional Amendment No.5 (ACA 5), which would become Proposition 16. ACA 5 reads: “In the wake of Proposition 209, California saw stark workforce diversity reductions for people of color and women in public contracting and in public education … Since the passage of Proposition 209, diversity within public educational institutions has been stymied.” Through ACA 5, which has become Proposition 16, the California State legislature has proposed to the people of California that they repeal Article I Section 31 of the State Constitution. The California State University Board of Trustees, University of California Board of Regents and California Community Colleges Board of Governors all support Proposition 16. According to the County of Kern Sample Ballot, “Proposition 16. Allows diversity as a factor in public employment, education, and contracting decisions.
Legislative Constitutional Amendment”. With Proposition 16, California voters will be asked if they want to remove words from the State Constitution, words that some argue fight discrimination and enforce equality. Connerly, currently President of Californians for Equal Rights, opposes Proposition 16. “[Yes on 16] means that any government entity can discriminate under the umbrella provided to them by the people of California. And discrimination would be explicitly understood to be preferential treatment; you could apply whatever standards you want,” Connerly said in an interview with Dennis Prager. Those in favor of Proposition 16 also view the issue within a framework of discrimination. In a town hall with California State University students, CSU Chancellor Timothy P. White, spoke in support for Proposition 16 amid the recent unrest over the police involved deaths of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd.
“I think as a university community we need to stand up and be counted as a voice against [racism/ discrimination]. But also, to understand the systemic and historical and contemporary issues that create different opportunities for people based on race and ethnicity,” White said. A Pew Rearch Center poll from April 2019 titled Race in America 2019 shows 56% of American adults recognize that being black hurts people’s ability get ahead to some degree. 59% of American adults say that being white is an advantage. However, an earlier poll from the Pew Research Center in Feb 2019 shows that across racial, ethnic and political parties the majority of Americans feel that race and ethnicity should not be considered in college admissions. The poll shows that most Americans believe high school grades and standardized test scores should be defining criteria in admissions. A majority of Americans recognize racial ineq-
uities and discriminatory practices that arise; however, Americans are not sure they support affirmative action like methods of combatting it. Californians will have the chance to decide this for themselves. Yes or no on proposition 16 asks in a seemingly simple question, how one feels about discrimination. Connerly and those opposed to Proposition 16, argue that allowing for affirmative action or preferential treatment of any group over another, regardless of label or category, is a form of legalized discrimination. Those in favor of Proposition 16 argue that there are systemic issues that create barriers and deny certain opportunities to people based on gender, race or national origin. Proposition 16, they argue, fights discrimination by leveling the playing field for those segments of the population. With Proposition 16 Californians are being asked again to define discrimination and how best to fight it.
Cont: Everything to know about voting [VOTING cont from p. 1] -cial security number during registration. However, showing an ID or any other form of identification are only required if voting in-person. Finding your polling location Everyone’s polling location is determined by their address. The STEPS website explains that voters can find out where their assigned polling place is located by contacting their local election office or by visiting websites such as Get to the Polls or using the USA.gov search tool. For in-person voting, everyone’s polling location will be listed on the sample ballot mailed to them by the county elections office, according to the CapRadio news station voter guide for the 2020 election. What to expect at the polling station Capradio recommends
voters bring their mail-in ballot to help speed up the process for voters and election workers. When you arrive at the polls, you may have to wait in line before reaching the front. At this point you will be greeted by a poll worker; they will then ask for your name and ID and proceed to check the voter registration list. According to the Kern County Elections Division website you will then fill out a roster and be given a ballot and a marking pen. You will be directed to a voting booth where you will fill out your ballot. Make sure to read the instructions provided on the ballot to avoid any mistakes. If you need help filling out your ballot correctly or have made a mistake notify a poll worker. Tej Gokhale, Senior Manager for Civic Technology
and writer for DoSomething.org, writes that if for some reason there is an issue with your voter registration, there’s no need to panic, you may ask for a provisional ballot that will be counted after your registration status has been verified. After you’ve asked the poll worker for a provisional ballot, they will then provide you with the instructions necessary to verify your voter status to ensure your vote is counted. Casting mail-in ballots Any registered voter is eligible to vote by mail, according the Kern County Elections Division. After voting you should return your ballot in the envelope that was also included with your ballot. HowtoVote’s website explains that mail-in voters’ ballots must be postmarked on or before Nov. 3, and it must be received by the
county elections office no later than Nov. 20. According to Capradio and their 2020 election voter guide, ballots can be dropped in any U.S. Postal Service mail box. You can also use a designated ballot drop box, typically located in libraries and community centers. Mail-in ballots can also be returned to the appropriate county’s elections office, voting center or polling place. In Bakersfield, there are several U.S. Postal Service locations that offer the drive-thru drop boxes that voters can access, such as the Stockdale Hwy location. HowtoVote lists that ballots must be placed in the designated drop box or returning it in-person no later than 8 p.m. on Nov. 3. Drop boxes will be available in Bakersfield from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. on Oct. 17, 24, and 31. Locations
will include Bakersfield College, by the Haley St. entrance, CSU Bakersfield, by the Icardo Center, and any Kern County Library Branch. Same Day Voter Registration (Conditional Voter Registration) County election officials should offer Conditional Voter Registration provisional voting. According to the California Secretary of State website, Same Day Voter Registration also known as Conditional Voter Registration is a “safety net for Californians who miss the deadline to register to vote or update their voter registration information for an election.” California’s deadline to register to vote for any election is 15 days before Election Day, making Oct. 19, 2020 the official deadline, as written by the California Secretary of State, Voter Registration
guide. However, they do write that citizens who need to register or re-register to vote within 14 days of an election may complete the process by registering and voting at their election’s office, polling place, or vote center. Provisional ballots will be counted after the county elections office has thoroughly completed the voter registration verification process. Ultimately, there are a variety of resources available for first time voters that need additional assistance preparing for the polls. Now more than ever, voters have the ability to enter polling stations informed about the ballot’s contents, allowing voters to cast their votes behind candidates and policies that reflect the change they wish to see at local, state and national levels.
Elections
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October 21, 2020
Prop 18 would change voting age By Chase Anderson Reporter With the Presidential election underway and ballots already being accepted it is important to understand exactly what is on the ballot to make the most informed choices, rather that just being told how to vote from an commercial. One such proposition on the ballot is Prop. 18 which would allow 17-year-olds to vote in primary and special election if they will be 18-years-old by the time of the next general election. From June 2020 there have been approximately 108,000 17-year-olds that have pre-registered to vote, meaning that once they turn 18, they are automatically registered to vote. This number reflects a considerable number of votes that could have a major impact on deciding the United States’ elected of-
ficials. In terms of fiscal costs to enact this change, they are very minimal in terms of county elections and present only a one-time state cost. According to the California General Election Official Voter Information Guide booklet, this proposition would increase the workload of county election officials which would be dependent on the 17-year-olds who meet the voting requirements. It is projected that statewide, county costs would increase each two-year election cycle between several hundreds of thousands and $1 million. For the state these would only be a one-time fee to cover the costs of updating all vote ballots and systems. This cost is projected to be in the hundreds of thousands, but still would less
than 1% of the state’s General Fund for elections. There are various organizations and individuals that have given their testimony on being either for or against this proposition. Kevin Mullin, Assembly member CA Assembly District 22, and Evan Low, Assembly member CA Assembly District 28, write feel that passing this would increase youth participation and interest in voting as “We need youth voices to be represented at the ballot box…to amplify the voices of young voters throughout California and will lead to a more inclusive election process for our state overall” said Mullin and Low. Orange County Register Editorial Board opposes Prop 18 and believes there is no necessary reason for those that are 17-years-old to vote because there are other ways young people
can get involved. “Working on campaigns, helping candidates get out the vote, speaking their mind and educating themselves,” Orange County Register Editorial Board wrote. The Los Angeles Times Editorial Board wrote in favor of Prop. 18 as the voters of California (as with other states) have no part in selecting which candidates will represent the many political parties on the ballot, but from these select the two that will run for office. “[It is] an added reason to let some 17-yearolds vote…it makes sense that teens who will be eligible to vote in a general election should also help decide whose names will be on the ballot,” The LA times wrote. For more breadowns of the propositions, visit www.therunneronline.com.
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The Runner
October 21, 2020
Prop 20 would restrict parole, increase sentencing for theft By Rosa Salazar Copy Chief On Nov. 3, California voters will have the chance to weigh in on sentencing and the justice system, starting with Proposition 20 Criminal Sentencing, Parole, and DNA Collection Initiative. The ballot proposes changing policies and laws relating to criminal sentencing that were passed between 2011 and 2016. According to the Califor-
nia Secretary of State website Proposition 20, “Restricts parole for certain offenses currently considered to be non-violent. Authorizes felony sentences for certain offenses currently treated only as misdemeanors.” This means crimes like petty theft valued up to $950 can be charged as a felony. Additionally, parole for these types of crimes would be difficult to obtain. A yes vote means people who commit petty
theft crimes should receive harsher penalties including felony charges and longer sentence times, state’s will consider the parole processing for these crimes, and DNA samples would be collected from certain misdemeanors. On the contrary, a no vote means the penalties of certain petty theft crimes would not be increased; the penalties would remain as they are. Also, the state’s parole processing would not change. And finally,
only DNA samples would be collected from people charged with a felony, sex offenders, and arsonists. An argument for Proposition 20 on the California Secretary of State website states, “Under California law, assault with a deadly weapon is classified a “nonviolent” offense— along with date rape, selling children for sex, and 19 other clearly violent crimes.” But Proposition 20 changes this by preventing the early prison release
of violent criminals by classifying these crimes as “violent” and making victims aware of the release of their perpetrators. An argument against Proposition 20 on the same website states, “Prop 20 could slash mental health treatment and rehabilitation programs—proven strategies to reduce repeat crime. That will make us all less safe.” Additionally, victims of these types of crimes as well as law enforcement leaders, and re-
habilitation experts oppose because the money for Proposition 20 can be used elsewhere including homelessness, schools, mental health, and housing. Lastly, those against Proposition 20 argue that “Prop. 20 is a prison spending scam that takes us backwards.” Additional information on Proposition 20 and the rest of the 12 propositions can be found on the California Secretary of State website.
Prop 22 stirs up debate for Uber drivers By Katrina Singleton News Editor Proposition 22 aims to categorize app-based drivers and couriers for companies like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash as independent contractors rather than employees. If it passes, it will negate California Assembly Bill 5, which established a three-factor test to determine if someone can be considered an independent contractor. According to Ballotpedia, to be considered an independent contractor, the worker must be “free from the hiring company’s control and direction in the performance of work; (2) the worker is doing work that is outside the company’s usual course of busi-
ness; and (3) the worker is engaged in an established trade, occupation, or business of the same nature as the work performed.” The proposition would permit app-based companies to create their own labor laws specific to their contracted drivers instead of adhering to California labor laws that protect employees. Drivers would be ineligible for minimum wage, overtime, unemployment insurance, and workers’ compensation. Instead, they would be entitled to at least 120% of the minimum wage, a stipend for healthcare, and paid medical expenses for injuries obtained while driving. It would also limit drivers to working 12
hours in a 24-hour period and prevent local legislature from setting a higher minimum wage for appbased workers in their jurisdiction. Proponents for the proposition say voting yes would keep fares low and wait times short. Opponents, on the other hand, argue that voting yes would eliminate important protections for workers like guaranteed minimum earnings and important insurance benefits to keep profit margins high for companies. For more coverage of local news as well as each of the proposition on the California ballot, visit our website www.therunneronline. com.
Elections
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October 21, 2020
‘Runners cast their first ballots By Destinee Sims Features Editor and Valeria Roman Features Writer As the U.S. presidential election approaches, citizens are finding themselves feeling conflicted about their right to vote. For many U.S. citizens, voting feels like a great privilege and creates a sense of empowerment. However, some Americans find themselves unsure about casting their ballot for the first time. Qualifying Americans opt to abstain from voting for a variety of reasons, including nerves over submitting their first ballot. Many CSUB students will have the chance to cast their first vote this year, with some having expressed excitement about their ability to contribute to society and potentially create change. Alondra Ramirez, a junior math major, was one of many Runners that were able to vote in the 2018 elections, but were still underage during the last presidential election in 2016. Now, Ramirez is ready to use her voice for those
who cannot. “I am definitely voting, because during the last presidential elections I was too young to vote and hated the feeling that I had. I am using my vote because of people who live in [this] country and are unable to vote, regardless of their reason,” Ramirez wrote. Not all Runners share their classmates’ optimistic views though, as multiple CSUB students state they do not feel ready to vote yet and would like to abstain from this year’s election. “I just think that our vote doesn’t make a difference in who gets chosen for presidency or anything like that,” Dusty Rose Forty, a junior art and psychology major, wrote. It is unclear how many students have decided to abstain after the U.S. Electoral College representatives’ cast their votes for Donald Trump in 2016 after Hillary Clinton won the popular vote. Some uncertain Runners have determined that they will vote before the election window ends, although they aren’t sure who they will be support-
ing yet. “I’m 24 and this will be my first-time voting. I didn’t vote previously because I didn’t feel I was educated enough to vote. I didn’t really follow politics before and never took
Illustration by Alyson Bravo/The Runner the time to really look into Gomez, a junior business it. I still don’t really follow major, wrote. politics and even though First-time voters are enI still don’t think my vote couraged to explore the rematters, in the end with ev- sources available to help erything that has happened them prepare to cast a balthis year I think it’s import- lot that accurately exant for me to vote,” Karla pressed their hopes for the
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United States. CSUB instructor Dr. Ivy Cargile, Assistant Professor of Political Science, encouraged students to go out and vote. Cargile disagrees with the belief that a single vote doesn’t count. “Every vote matters. When elections are this competitive every vote counts. Every little grain of sand that is put in either jar matters. Some elections have come so close that the difference was one hundred votes. So, your votes do matter. […] If you never invest yourself in the system, the system is going to completely pass you by. […] You can’t complain when you haven’t tried to do anything to fix it,” Cargile said. Cargile urged students to keep in perspective how important the votes from the 18 to 29-year-olds population are, as youth voters make up approximately a quarter of the U.S. population that is eligible to vote. With each election ballot serving as a symbol for the American voice, it is ultimately up to students to decide how they wish to be heard.
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The Runner
October 21, 2020
Women discuss voting history By Melanie Romo Assistant Features Editor A hundred years ago, the image of women hovering over a ballot bubbling in her decision to share her voice with ink was taboo. No one could have imagined a gathering of women exercising their 19th amendment right, the right to vote. Women actively participating in the political world previously dominated by men was simply inacceptable. According to the Center for American Women in Politics (CAWP), since 1964, female voters have outnumbered men voters in every presidential election. Moreover, “Women outvoted men (in terms of both turnout rates and actual numbers) in every racial and ethnic group-African American, Latino, Asian/Pacific Islander, and white,” according to CAWP. The upcoming November 3 election will mark history as it finds itself in the middle of a global pandemic and in the middle of social justice issues such as Black Lives Matter movement. Also, it marks the first time a woman has ever been nominated for the role of Vice President. Women’s voice will play a major role in the election. Gitika Commuri, associate professor of polit-
ical science at CSU Bakersfield, teaches a course discussing women in politics. “I think one of the big surprises in conversations we talk about is why the United States has not had a female head of state. That puzzles the students a lot, and it bothers them a lot,” said Commuri. She pointed out the increase of women voters, specifically in Black women. This group of women’s engagement in politics grew and continues to grow at impressive rates, according to Commuri. Commuri speculates that one possible explanation for the gender gap in politics is that there are differences between men and women, not only in population but mentally. “There is also literature that shows women are more cooperative than men- in terms of their ability to deal with other members of the legislature... that they can come together, and they can make things work, and they have a consensual style of functioning,” Commuri said. Certain topics of importance to women are similar. According to Commuri, these topics include social welfare, health, and education. Whether they are Republican or Democrat doesn’t matter, the com-
monality in topics of interest still exists. Though there are differing feminist theories that show that not all women think the same way. “There is no agreement, which is nice because then you are forced to not accept an easy way,” Commuri said. She explained that in mainstream feminist theories, there are multiple theories and viewpoints regarding why this is. “Because it’s such a masculine dominated field, the feminist theory argues why women joining in this very masculinist public sphere, women are masculinizing themselves,” she said. Another theory argues that women are necessary because in some societies across the world there are more women than men, according to Commuri. “The United States is behind. There are third world countries that have powerful women in office from Liberia, to Sri Lanka, to India, to Bangladesh, to Pakistan. Women in other parts of the world have beaten the United States to it... In that sense we are behind, we need to catch up,” Commuri said. When asked how she feels about the current political climate of the 2020 election, she took a few seconds to gather her thoughts and expressed the difficulty in putting words
to describe it. Commuri used the words “scary” and “dangerous” to explain the political environment she said President Donald Trump created with his failure to condemn white supremacists, among other instances. “Certainly, in the last 25 odd years since I have been in the United States, and I would argue nothing like this has happened from the second world war onwards,” she said. In response to if she will vote in this election Commuri said, “I just became a US citizen, so this is my first vote. So, I am damn well going to vote.” Jaycee Sharp is a junior studying biology and is part of the CSUB College Republican club. She wrote in an email to The Runner on the political topics that are of importance to her. Some include public safety, healthcare, and racism in the United States. “I would like to remain in charge of my body, and do not think that the government should have an extensive say in anybody’s healthcare or vaccinations! The phrase ‘my body, my choice,’ should be valid for every aspect of healthcare,” Sharp wrote. On the topic of racism, she wrote, “Joe Biden refused to condemn the violent protests that erupted as a result of George Floyd’s
death but failed to condemn the police during the first presidential debate, and that to me, is a red flag that he is unable to choose a stance on an issue.” The duality of an issue and the work it takes to understand contrasting perspectives is important and necessary to be able to vote, according to Sharp. “Watch both CNN and Fox News, do a quick google search, have friends with different political opinions as yourself!” Sharp wrote. Sharp will be voting in this election, and she will be voting for Donald Trump. “By voting for Trump, I am voting for a better quality of life for everyone. I am voting for hard work and prosperity, not handouts and freebies. I am voting for the wellbeing of my family and my future children. I am voting for a strong economy and lower taxes. I am voting for the right to choose what chemicals I put into my body, and the right to be in charge of my health and well-being. I am voting for the voices of everyone to be heard!” Sharp wrote. Robin Walters, President of the Democratic Women of Kern (DWK) and CSUB alumni, is 61-years-old and considers herself politically active. “Really I became super active at the end in 2016
like so many when I saw the election of someone that I thought was antithetical to everything I value in this country. I mean truly antithetical, and in my view morally bankrupt. So, to that extent I don’t feel at all with the current government represents me or anyone like me or anybody that cares about human beings,” Walters said. Walters said she is involved because she wants to set a good example for her daughter. Walters has never missed an opportunity to vote. “One [candidate] is qualified, and one is not. One is moral, and one is not. One cares about human beings, one does not-well cares about one, only himself... One has pets. One doesn’t. For me, those speak through the character of the men that are running, and that character follows through into their policies,” Walters said. To Walters, it is a choice between good and evil. “This time this is different, different than any election I’ve ever, ever seen in my lifetime,” Walters said. Walters says she will be dropping off her ballot tomorrow. “I just hope you young people vote… This your world and you need to help save it, and unless you vote, you’re not going to have a say,” Walters said.
Illustration by Alyson Bravo/The Runner
Opinions
The Runner
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October 21, 2020
Vote like your life depends on it By The Runner Editorial Board In a time where political tensions are nearly as high as the rates of voter suppression, it is imperative that young people continue to vote. Despite the best attempts to dissuade young voters that can be seen throughout the United States, the Millenial vote has continued to rise. According to data from the Pew Research Center, the Millenial vote doubled between the 2014 and 2018 midterm elections. This statistic may come as somewhat of a shock, given the notoriously low voter turnout of young people. But the youth vote
is finally on the rise. Combined with the votes of Gen X, young people could outvote older generations. In the 2018 midterm elections, the Millenial vote, paired with the votes of Gen Z and Gen X totaled 62.2 million votes, compared to the 60.1 million votes cast by Boomers, according to data from the Pew Research Center. While young people have the sheer numbers to make waves in each election, change rarely happens due to the widespread lack of engagement among America’s youth. It is common to hear fellow students lament the state of American democracy. But are those same
students participating in the democracy they are preemptively mourning? Despite what you may have heard, voting works. The U.S. political system is not entirely comprised of theatrical performances ready for televised news segments. The propositions, measures, and local legislators that appear on your ballot can and will affect your life, perhaps more so than the presidential candidates. The nuts and bolts of propositions and measures may sound almost as boring as researching local candidates, but those local elections will impact your life in tangible ways. Whether it be the slashing of your university’s
budget or the reelection of your local congressperson, you will be able to see the effects of those ballots. While local elections make the most direct impact on our daily lives, national elections can make an enormous impact as well. Issues like marriage equality and pathways to citizenship for undocumented immigrants can make a sizeable impact on your daily life or the lives of your friends and family. Perhaps you have friends who are DACA enrollees or family members who are undocumented. Though they are undoubtedly part of the fabric of America, they do not have the opportunity to seek representation or make their voices
heard through voting. Vote for them. Vote with the interests of others in mind. Voting is not simply an option, it is a social responsibility. Perhaps a hot-button issue on the ballot may not affect you personally or even someone you know. But does it not ultimately affect another human being? Could it affect you in the future? Apathy will never bring about change. If you see an issue and want to change it, there is only one way how. Vote. Vote for your friends, family, and neighbors. Vote even though it can be boring. Vote like your life depends on it. In many ways, it does.
Trump’s language will spark a civil war Jocelyn Sandusky Opinions Editor On Sept. 29, U.S. President Donald Trump said he was “willing to do anything” to achieve peace and end the extreme violence between the left and right parties in cities that have become hotspots for protests and civil unrest. He did no such thing. Instead of condemning white supremacist groups like The Proud Boys, Trump issued a rallying cry to racists and domestic terrorists across the country when he told them to “stand back and stand by” at the first presidential debate. Part of Trump’s appeal to his supporters is that his confidence is unwavering. Even against the worst odds, he remains unfazed and focused on getting his way. Americans want strong leaders. Any sign of weakness or fear is a sign they are not equipped to protect this country. Trump can say or tweet he is confident that he will win, but this direct address to rightwing extremist groups was a clear indication of panic. President Trump has made it clear that if he loses the upcoming election to former Vice President Joe Biden, he will stall the transition of power to contest Biden’s victory in the Supreme Court. When Trump said “stand
back and stand by,” it was a plea to white supremacist groups to pause their participation in violence and instigation until he needs their help in creating chaos if Biden defeats him. It is troubling that his supporters and fellow politicians look past such abusive and dangerous behavior. People need to stop worrying about electing the person from their preferred political party and look at what is right and wrong instead. We need more people like John McCain and Mitt Romney who worry about
Jocelyn Sandusky/The Runner respect and preserving the premacists during the prosanctity of this democracy. tests in Charlottesville, Va., In response to Trump’s in which one woman died, statements about contesthe refused. ing the election results, It should have been easy Romney wrote on Twitto say racism, violence, ter, “Fundamental to deand murder have no place mocracy is the peaceful in this country. Instead, he transition of power; withblamed both sides for the out that, there is Belarus. fallout of that day. Any suggestion that a pres“You had some very bad ident might not respect this people in that group, but Constitutional guarantee is you also had people that both unthinkable and unac- were very fine people on ceptable.” both sides,” said Trump, Trump did something according to a transcript similar in August 2017. from Politifact. When reporters asked According to Trump, not Trump if he would deall racist and bigoted peonounce the violence from ple are deplorable. neo-Nazis and white suThe primary organizer of
that deadly Charlottesville protest, Jason Kessler, is a former Proud Boy. The Proud Boys organization actively seeks conflict to engage in violence. They are vigilantes hoping to protect armed police forces against weaponless citizens. According to the Anti-Defamation League, a Proud Boys member posted, “If any contact is made with you, that’s assault. If they take your hat, spray you with silly string, spit, push… It’s assault. We need to have all our guys there before we retaliate, though, if we can. The cops aren’t going to let us fight long. We need to inflict as much damage as possible in the time we have.” Rather than distance himself from dangerous and fascist groups like the Proud Boys and make it clear his values don’t align with their ideology, Trump asked for their help, a favor in a sense, with an intentionally ambiguous statement. Instead, he blamed the entire left-wing for the problems plaguing cities like Portland and Kenosha. While Trump lumped farleft extremist groups with everyone else on the left side of the political spectrum, nobody equated Republicans to far-right extremists; Trump did when he recognized them as allies instead of enemies.
Itzell Baez, who frequently protests in support of Black Lives Matter, believes Trump could not afford to lose the support from such a substantial base of his supporters. His reelection is not in the bag, and he has to hold on to every vote he can. “Donald Trump was endorsed by David Duke. His main audience is white supremacists. He had his chance to condemn white supremacy, and he didn’t,” Baez said. The president of the U.S. should not want the votes from such deplorable people. Hatred does not belong in this country, and groups like these seek conflict to inflict pain on others. Trump can shift the blame onto the opposite side of the aisle time and time again, but at the very least, even the ones that engage in violence, are fighting for something worthwhile. Shifting the blame to people who are seeking change will not overshadow the dangerous behavior exhibited by his loyal supporters. Condemn violence on both ends. Implore peaceful protests that seek respect and equality for everyone. Do everything but order chauvinistic, xenophobic, and racist groups to wait for a signal to attack. A civil war is coming, and Donald Trump will start it.