Key races, issues on the ballot in Ohio this November
Election Day is Nov. 5, and plenty of races and issues are on the ballot this presidential election. Ohio voters have until Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. to cast absentee ballots and until Nov. 4 to cast mail-in ballots.
Here’s a compilation of national, state and county races and the hot-button issues each candi date’s campaigns tackled.
Race for Ohio’s second U.S. Senate seat
Incumbent Sherrod Brown, a Democrat, and opponent Bernie Moreno, a Republican, are facing off this November for one of Ohio’s two seats in the U.S. Senate.
Brown is a lifelong Ohioan who has served in the U.S. Sen ate as Chairman of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, a member of the Agricultural Committee, a member of the Finance Committee and is the longest-serving Ohioan member of the Veterans Affairs Committee. He also served as Ohio’s 13th Congressional District House Representative.
Moreno was born in Bogota, Colombia, and immigrated to the U.S. when he was five. His entrepre neurial career began when he pur chased a car dealership in 2005. In 2018, he co-founded Champ Titles, an organi zation aiming to help governments make vehicle titles, registrations and liens more accessible to constituents. He is a strong supporter of strengthening southern U.S. border security.
Brown said he prioritizes Ohioan voices over those in Washington, D.C., a claim he has bolstered by holding over 500 roundtable discussion sessions with constituents across the state. He said he supports increasing the federal minimum wage, strengthening policies protecting against discrimination and expanding public schools and healthcare funding.
ALAINA DACKERMANN DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Don Jones and opponent Micah McCarey Oct. 8. They discussed green energy, gun violence, the opioid crisis, healthcare and Israel.
candidates agreed mental health crises, including addictive opioid use, can stem from unemployment and housing instability.
Incumbent Athens County Commissioner Charlie Adkins debated challenger Jon Rose at the behest of the Athens County League of Women’s Voters Sept. 24. The candidates discussed key debate issues surrounding affordable housing, incarceration and tourism in Athens. Adkins’ current term oversaw a $12 billion communication center project as well as the creation of new senior housing and more apartment units in Athens. Adkins worked for the fire department before his term as commissioner and has focused his efforts on elderly and low-income residents. He also used a $2 million grant for improvement projects in Jacksonville, Albany and Rose pitched himself as a father, paramedic and business owner who wants to help people regardless of party affiliation. He campaigned to make the County Commissioner’s Office more transparent and accessible. During his campaign, he spoke with small-town residents who had felt disconnected from their elected officials.
However, Adkins also said he often visits residents and local trustees to discuss
On incarceration, Adkins’ term restructured how Athens pays for the Regional Jail. Before Adkins’ term, the county spent $2 million annually regardless of the number of inmates, which Adkins restructured to ebb and flow with incarceration rates.
Moreno said he will fight to shrink government size and spending to combat inflation. On the international stage, Moreno supports Israel and said he will fight against the selling of American businesses and user data to China. He also seeks to establish congressional term limits, defeat socialism in the U.S. and enact a ban on late-term abortions.
Ohio Congressional District 95 race
The Ohio University Student Senate hosted a debate between incumbent Ohio District 95 House Representative
McCarey said he favors creating green energy, including wind turbines and solar panels, but Jones said such measures would not be practical in Southeast Ohio due to a lack of wind currents.
On gun violence, Jones expressed support for in-school safety measures such as arming teachers with firearms. McCarey contrastingly said his campaign would focus on preventing the issue of gun violence from reaching schools in the first place by enforcing stronger background checks for the purchase of firearms.
Jones’ term saw the construction of a mental health facility in St. Clairsville, Ohio, for preventing relapses in people struggling with opioid addictions. Both
Jones co-sponsored House Bill 49, which aims to give patients access to a preemptive medical bill before committing to care. McCarey previously supported universal healthcare, which he calls unachievable now. Instead, he opts to expand Medicare and Medicaid and improve employee health benefits.
On the Israel-Hamas war, Jones said state legislators should focus on their communities rather than international affairs. McCarey stated that he values listening to the voice of his constituents who supported a ceasefire resolution he helped pass through Athens City Council in February.
Athens County Commissioner race
Rose, however, is focused on alternative routes to incarceration, such as more accessible mental health avenues for people struggling with addiction. He said the County Commissioner’s Office’s resources would be better spent on preventing people from being incarcerated in the first place.
Rose cited the discontinuation of a mental health EMS task force during Adkins’ term, which Adkins explained as the result of the task force’s founding organization pulling its funding.
Adkins and Rose agreed that Athens’ economy could benefit from increased tourism efforts such as supporting the Baileys Trail System, though Adkins said he is wary of how much funding the Baileys need.
JACK SOLON | FOR THE POST
Ohio University recognized for student voter registration efforts
ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge recognized Ohio University for its nonpartisan democratic engagement efforts and its student voter engagement in the 2022 midterm elections.
OU received the Campus Democracy Challenge Silver Seal Award, reflecting the university’s commitment to making nonpartisan democratic engagement a defining feature of campus life, according to a press release obtained by The Post. Silver Seal Awards were awarded to campuses with 30%-39% or higher voter participation in the 2022 midterm elections.
“Voting is not just a right; it’s a responsibility that shapes our future,” Mary Nally, Center for Community Engagement director, said. “We are proud to be given this designation and support OHIO students registering to vote. It is a testament to the power of engagement and civic responsibility and reflects a commitment to shaping the future and ensuring that the voices of young people are heard in our democracy.”
Jennifer Domagal-Goldman, executive director of the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, said the awards were created to recognize and honor the nonpartisan democratic engagement and campus voter rates and turnouts achieved by ALL IN campuses.
“ALL IN is proud to celebrate and honor top-performing campuses, like Ohio University, which demonstrate that nonpartisan student voter engagement
is possible and effective,” Domagal-Goldman said.
The National Study of Learning, Voting and Engagement found in a 2022 study colleges and universities had the second-highest student voter turnout in a midterm election. OU was recognized among over 500 other campuses using data from NSLVE.
OU’s Center for Community Engagement was awarded two mini-grants from Ask Every Student and Campus Vote Project to reduce voting barriers, reward student and faculty leadership and promote a broad approach to campus
voter registration and access to information through academic, institutional and student integration.
The CCE integrates nonpartisan democratic engagement into academic and student life through Faculty Civic Champions and Student Civic Champions.
Registered faculty will receive curriculum resources such as an interactive online tutorial, lesson plans and communication materials for classroom use.
Registered students will receive resources such as flyers and residence hall bulletin boards. Students and faculty can register using Give Pulse.
OU has hosted several voter registration events on campus ahead of the 2024 presidential election to continue its efforts for student voter engagement.
Adriane Mohlenkamp, co-president of the League of Women’s Voters of Athens County, said the organization hosted several voter registration events.
“We’re always just out talking to people about voting and (voting) information,” Mohlenkamp said.
The League of Women’s Voters of Ohio hosted an on-campus event Oct. 3 and provided students with voter registration resources.
Mohlenkamp said this fall at OU, LWVO focused on partnering with different groups working to spread voting information.
"We worked with a lot of groups so that we could kind of bring them the background and information and the knowledge about how to do it and be there to support their work of engaging with fellow students and events,” Mohlenkamp said.
OU offers several other opportunities for students to get involved in civic engagement, such as taking the Bobcat Voter Pledge to receive updates and information regarding voting and ways to be an engaged citizen.
Students can also sign up to be volunteer campus poll monitors and nonpartisan volunteers who assist voters at campus polling locations with Election Protection.
ET029322@OHIO.EDU
HB 458 changes, restricts voting, causes controversy
Over a year ago, Republican Gov. Mike DeWine signed Ohio House Bill 458 Jan. 6, 2023. The bill changed voter identification rules, shortened absentee ballot requests, changed curbside voting rules and moved early voting windows.
“Ohioans are clearly supportive of strict photo ID for voting, and we have found a common-sense way to make it happen that ensures voters are not disenfranchised,” Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose said in a press release.
HB 458 restricts voting identification to only accepting Ohio-issued identification documents, such as a driver's license, passport or Ohio-issued military ID and can now send absentee ballots using the last four digits of their social security number.
According to Mary Nally, director of the Ohio University Center for Campus and Community Engagement, these new laws disenfranchise people and make voting more difficult.
Nally said she recommends students vote via absentee ballot, especially if the student is from out of state. Absentee will help prevent them from having to get an Ohio ID.
“Some of the potential consequences of an out-of-state student getting an Ohio driver's license or ID is that it may impact scholarships,” Nally said. “(Students would) have to re-register their car in the
state now that their driver's license may be in the state, and it may even impact health insurance.”
Currently, over 500,000 out-of-state students are in Ohio, and over 4,475 of them are at OU. In addition, many other Ohioans may have already been disenfranchised, with over a million Ohioans having a suspended driver's license, according to Nally.
“(People) do not have a state ID for a variety of reasons,” Nally said. “Maybe someone lost their house or has recently lost their ID. There was a higher level of flexibility about identification previously, and now it's been substantially restricted to an Ohio state ID.”
Previously, polling locations also accepted utility bills with a person’s name and address, a bank statement, paycheck, government check and government or job document with a person’s social security number on it.
HB 458 also shortened the deadline to request an absentee ballot by four days and eliminated early voting on the last Monday before an election.
The Bill mandates an absentee ballot to be received by a board of election no longer than four days after the election and mailed not after the day of the election. Additionally, 458 shortens the timeline for the ballots to be cured.
Drop boxes have also been restricted. They must be bomb and fireproof, bolted
to the ground, emptied by employees of both political parties and there can only be one per county.
Jen Miller is the executive director of the League of Women Voters of Ohio. Miller said LWV is concerned about restrictions made on drop boxes.
“(The LWV) think there should be more of them, not less per county,” Miller said. “We think there should be more access to drop boxes, not less.”
HB 458 also made it illegal for family members to help disabled voters cast their ballots. A federal court struck down the restrictions in July, allowing a person with a disability to select a person of their choice to assist them with voting.
“Ohio has one of the most restricted voter ID laws in the country now,” Miller said. “The 2020 Election in Ohio was one of the most secure in the history of the state and the country. So tightening those voter ID laws did not seem necessary to us.”
OU and Student Senate are trying to help students vote and spread awareness of the new laws. OU has partnered with the university mail service to treat all absentee ballots as packages, making the absentee ballots more accessible, with campus package lockers being available 24/7.
In the Senate office, students can find absentee request forms, stamps and flyers on how to complete the forms and
a box to turn the forms in.
Donald Theisen, The Senate governmental affairs commissioner, said it is important, especially in this election, for people to know the laws.
“Whatever the law is regarding (voting), we still want (students) to know it right,” Theisen said. “The changes have been relatively recent, and we may be putting a little bit more effort into these things because there's a possibility that people haven't caught them.”
DH384223@OHIO.EDU
ELIZABETH TALAGA | FOR THE POST
DREW HOFFMASTER | FOR THE POST
Voting sign outside of Alden Library, Athens. Oct. 24, 2024.
(RACHEL KLANCHER | FOR THE POST)
Athens County Ballot features 4 levy renewals
Athens County has four levies, Issues 19, 20, 21 and 22, on the ballot for renewal in the November election to support medical treatment and vehicles, senior citizen facilities and children’s services.
A renewal is when a levy is passed again to keep the same tax rate for an initiative and continues for the number of years stated in the levy. Athens County Auditor Jill Davidson said knowing the difference between a renewal and a replacement is important.
“What people don't often understand is they don't know the difference between a renewal and a replacement,” Davidson said. “They don't realize that by replacing a levy, they would be nearly doubling the revenue.”
Davidson said it is also important for people to understand what a mill is. A mill is $1 per $1,000 of assessed value. An assessed value for a person is any property taxable value a person has.
LEVY 19
The funds from Levy 19 would support tuberculosis treatment, specifically for tuberculosis clinics and testing.
If renewed, Levy 19 is estimated to collect $213,000 annually from Athens County taxpayers. The rate at which people will be taxed will not exceed 0.3 mills. According to Davidson, for a $100,000 assessed value, a person would be paying $4.
Currently, Davidson anticipates the Board of County Commissioners will not actually collect the full 0.3 mill amount but a 0.2 mill amount, something done with this levy since 1995.
“(The Board of County Commissioners) want the approved 0.3 in case there is a need,” Davidson said. “They could come back later and increase it, but right now, their intention is to only continue to collect it at 0.2, so it's going to stay at 0.2.”
If the levy passes, the taxes for the renewal will not be collected until 2026. The previous renewal of the levy will be collected for the final time in 2025.
LEVY 20
Levy 20 will collect taxes to fund emergency medical services in the county. These funds will be used for the maintenance and operation of emergency vehicles.
It is predicted that the levy will collect $557,000 each year from Athens County residents. This would be done at a rate not exceeding 0.5 mills, meaning it would collect $11 for $100,000 from each person per assessed value.
According to Davidson, this levy was last voted to be renewed in 2018. If renewed, the revenue amount will be increased from $556,000 by $1,000. Davidson said most people misunderstand where tax increase comes from.
“If they vote for a renewal, (the millage) should stay the same,” Davidson said. “The reduction factor will also go up, and their rate will go down to bring the revenue in back to what it should have been.”
If renewed, the Levy 20 collection will begin in 2025 and last five years. Previously, the levy failed in 2023.
LEVY 21
Levy 21, up for renewal this year, will provide funding for senior citizen facilities and services. These funds may also support social services, help meet needs and provide housing.
Levy 21 will not tax at a millage above 0.25 mills, meaning for a $100,000 assessed value, a person would be paying $5. Currently, Davidson estimates Levy 21 will generate $278,000 each year. Davidson said this amount would be increased by $84,000 if the levy was replaced,
not renewed.
Last renewed in 2019, the current levy is set to expire at the end of the year. If renewed, taxes for Levy 21 will begin being collected next year for the next five years.
LEVY 22
The taxes for Levy 22 will support children’s services and care, helping to prevent children from being abused and neglected. These taxes will also help with children's placement, care and protection.
The millage of the levy is to not exceed three mills, which is less than the maximum 10 mills the county commissioners could ask for. According to Davidson, with a $100,000 assessed value, a person
would be paying $60.
This levy was last renewed in 2015. If renewed in the upcoming election, the levy will not begin collecting taxes until 2026. Davidson said the current levy in place for children’s services funding does not expire until 2025.
“(The board of county commissioners is) trying to go to the voters a year early,” Davidson said. “They can put it on the spring and then put it on the fall. My expectation is they just took out a $13.1 million bond, and they're building a building, so they want to put this on a year early. That way, if it does fail, they have two more chances at the ballot.”
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Union Street Market works to sell liquor Sundays
TESSA SEARCY | FOR THE POST cause beer isn’t as popular with the new generation.
If approved by Ward 3 Precinct 1 voters on election day, Nov. 5, Union Street Market will be able to serve its community with hard liquor, alongside beer and wine, all week long.
According to the Ohio Department of Commerce website, a store must have a D-6 liquor permit to sell intoxicating liquor Sundays, including wine, prepackaged mixed beverages and high-proof spirits.
The Athens Ward 3 Precinct 1 ballot will allow voters to approve the permission for Sunday liquor sales at Union Street Market.
Alan McMillan, the owner of Union Street Market, opened the market in 2007. McMillan said Union Street Market can sell low-alcohol spirits six days a week, but it needs to upgrade its license to sell liquor Sundays.
However, the Ohio Department of Commerce website said that a liquor permit holder can sell beer Sundays regardless of whether they have a D-6 permit. “If it gets approved by the voters, then we’ll have the full complement for beer, wine and alcoholic drinks like High Noons and canned beverages,” McMillan said. McMillan said beer sales are falling be-
“They love seltzers and other alcohols … now customers are requesting them seven days a week,” McMillan said.
McMillan said if the issue is passed, the market will look and act the same, except it will be able to sell the same products Sunday.
“Customers don't understand why they can’t buy the same product they can buy six days a week,” McMillan said.
McMillan said he thinks Union Street Market is one of the only liquor stores in Athens that cannot sell liquor on Sundays. He also said he wants to treat the customers well and provide them with the products they want seven days a week.
“We’re asking for something that is so minor,” McMillan said. “It has more to do with the bureaucracy of liquor laws in the state of Ohio.”
McMillan said he prioritizes caring for his customers, noting the market stayed open during COVID while many other convenience stores closed.
“It's a family-owned business,” McMillan said. “The community knows Union Street Market, and we just want to treat our customers well.”
DREW HOFFMASTER | FOR THE POST
Student walking in front of the Board of Elections Court Street, Athens. Oct. 24, 2024. (RACHEL KLANCHER | FOR THE POST)
Union Street Market, Athens, Ohio, Oct. 22, 2024. (OWEN HEDBURG
POST)
Issue 1 could end gerrymandering in Ohio
As many students make the weekly trip from campus to East State Street to buy groceries or for retail therapy, the inevitable passing of political signs outside homes catches eyes and creates conversation.
The signs typically include visual endorsements of “Kamala-Walz” or “Trump-Vance.” Some are issue-based, like the citizen-led initiative Issue 1, which says “Vote Yes” or “Vote No.” Issue 1 has become a popular topic for Ohio voters in the Nov. 5 election.
According to Ohio University Lancaster associate professor of political science Linda Trautman, Issue 1 is on the ballot for Ohio voters because Ohio voters initiated it, practicing their democratic right to the redistricting process.
“It is a measure that will determine the future of control of the redistricting process in Ohio,” Trautman wrote in an email.
Trautman said voting in favor of Issue 1 will change the district drawing process and include citizens.
“Voting yes means providing citizens’ voices in the redistricting decision-making process,” Trautman wrote in an email.
According to All About Redistricting, voting to oppose Issue 1 will protect the nine-year-long Ohio Redistricting Commission. The Commission draws districts based on the recent Census results, according to the Ohio Redistricting Commission website.
“Voting no means maintaining the current process of redistricting controlled by politicians— Bipartisan Redistricting Commission and voting,” Trautman wrote in an email.
In other terms, Issue 1 is deciding whether gerrymandering will end in Ohio. According to the Citizens Not Politicians organization website, politicians and lobbyists in Ohio manipulate voting districts to protect their interests and guarantee their reelection, causing incumbents running for reelection to rarely lose.
“In other words, we let politicians choose their voters,” according to the Citizens Not Politicians website. “The Citizens Not Politicians Amendment bans lobbyists and politicians from the process and instead empowers voters to choose their politicians.”
Trautman said gerrymandering focuses on politicians’ gains in voting outcomes and deprives representation in the country.
“Gerrymandering is the manipulation of district boundaries,” Trautman wrote in an email.
Trautman noted different types of gerryman-
dering, such as partisan gerrymandering, which is drawing district lines to advantage one party, and racial gerrymandering, which is drawing district lines to negatively impact minorities’ voting power.
Accordng to Citizens Not Politicians, Ohio is among the 10 most gerrymandered states.
“It typically maintains a monopoly on ‘political power’ in this country,” Trautman wrote in an email. “It denies a fully functioning democracy that reflects the political inclusion of all citizens.”
According to an article from The Post published Oct. 1, 41 million members of Generation Z will be eligible to vote in the upcoming general election. Much of OU’s student body falls in the Gen Z category.
“It is absolutely important that students vote on Issue 1,” Trautman wrote in an email. “It has significant implications regarding whether they are represented within American democracy (great representational consequences, the degree of public school funding, etc.).”
Dan Gordillo, a senior majoring in political science and Student Senate president said young voters have the most to lose in this election because they have the most future in America.
“There’s a war in Europe, tensions are rising in East Asia, the Middle East is facing another conflict,” Gordillo said. “Who are the people that are going to be sent boots on the ground to stop that if the United States gets involved? It’s going to be young people.”
According to Gordillo, Senate office has Ohio absentee ballot request forms for students not registered in Athens.
“You can fill out a ballot from the comforts of your own home, and then you can walk back to the same post office here in Baker and mail it,” Gordillo said. “Bam, you voted. You did it. You did what you were supposed to do.”
Gordillo said regarding Issue 1, students must understand the capacity to vote yes or no.
“The laws that really affect us are not made at the federal level, but they’re really active at the state level,” Gordillo said.
Trautman said students can learn more by talking to the Board of Elections in their respective county and contacting nonpartisan organizations, such as Common Cause of Ohio and voteohio.gov.
@SUZIEPIPER
SUZANNE PIPER | FOR THE POST
A “Vote Yes on Issue 1” sign in the window of Brenen’s Cafe on Court Street in Athens, Oct. 23, 2024. (ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST)
Levy would replace, increase Athens County Libraries funds
MAGGIE ALLWEIN | FOR
Athens County Libraries Levy 17, originally passed in 2019, is expiring this year, putting a replacement and increase on the ballot for 1.5 mills.
It is estimated to generate $2.175 million per year, according to the County Auditor’s worksheet. Currently at 1.2 mills, the proposed levy will increase by 0.3 mills for the next five years.
According to Athens County Loves Libraries, a political action committee dedicated to helping pass Levy 17, the replacement levy will cost approximately $3.94 per month for $100,000 of property value, compared to the current levy that
costs property owners approximately $2.45 per month.
Nick Tepe, director of Athens County Libraries, explained that before the 30% libraries’ budget cut passed by the state in 2009, Athens County Public Libraries was fully state-funded.
“In order to deal with that back at that point in time, hours were cut, staff were laid off,” Tepe said. “It was really devastating for the library system and the whole community.”
To make up for budget cuts, the libraries passed their first local property tax levy in 2014. However, Tepe said over the past five to 10 years, state funding has increased a small amount but is not enough
Athens Public Library on 30 Home Street. Oct. 28, 2024.
STARK | FOR THE POST)
for services to be maintained.
“When we passed our last levy in 2019, that was increased to 1.2 mills, and now we’re kind of in the same boat where our costs, as everybody’s, continued to go up, but we have not received increased funding from the state,” Tepe said.
Tepe said the library system needs increased funding from Athens County residents to offer library services at its current level.
Jill Davidson, Athens County auditor, detailed the resources her office supplies on its website. Property owners can type in their addresses to explicitly view and understand the individual effect of the library levy.
“It’ll show how much they’re currently paying, how much they would be paying if the levy passes, and then what the difference would be, so they can actually see a direct impact immediately,” Davidson said.
The Ohio Library Council developed an economic return on investment calculator for libraries, which uses a library’s actual 2022 services such as circulation, programming and computer usage to calculate its individual return on investment.
According to the calculations, for every $1 spent on library services in Athens County, $3.27 comes back into the local economy.
Tepe, who has worked for the Athens system for eight
years, sees the library as essential for residents.
“I have always believed in the power of libraries to improve their community, and libraries are at their best when the community is involved and working to help support the library,” Tepe said. “We can respond to the things that the community brings us that they need from their library."
Laura O’Neil, treasurer of Athens County Loves Libraries, doesn't want residents to lose the library’s resources.
“The libraries do so much for our communities,” O’Neil said. “They provide safe space for kids, access to the internet. I personally use the printer and copier at the Athens Public Library all the time since I don’t have a printer at home. Not to mention the access to physical and digital materials.”
Tepe said the library provides information, resources and entertainment residents need to live their lives to the fullest. These include having kids in the library for storytime, helping those looking for jobs, providing internet access, helping with resumes and navigating the social services system.
“I really do see the library as the beating heart of the community, where we’re taking in all of the information that’s available in our community and then finding ways to connect it to people in the library, and then pushing that back out into the wider community,” Tepe said.
CAMPUS EVENTS October 30th - November 13th
Social Engagement & Student Org
Wednesday, October 30
Careers in Student Affairs Mixer
11:30 am - 1:30 pm 1804 Lounge Baker Center Light refreshments & Networking
Entrepreneurs with a Bite Guest Speaker hosted by CEO OU Chapter
6:30-8:00 pm CoLab 3rd floor Alden
Midweek Bible Study
hosted by Encompass Campus Ministry
7:00 -9:00pm Baker 366
Thursday, October 31
Lavender Menace
Halloween Party
6:30 - 9:00 pm
Check Bobcat Connect for Location
180: Weekly gathering of Cru
7:30-8:30 pm Morton 201
* To have your event included on this calendar make sure it is registered on Bobcat Connect!
Friday, November 1
ASTA Invitational with Fry Street Quartet 7:00 - 9:00 pm Glidden Hall
Monday, November 4
Polaroid Patchwork: A Collage Night 12:00 - 8:00 pm Seigfred Hall
Check Bobcat Connect for Location
Thursday, November 7
Pancakes to Rations hosted by: Student Veterans of America
8:00 am - 2:00 pm Baker 3rd floor Atrium
Regular Discussion hosted by Bridge USA OU Chapter 6:00 -7:00 pm Alden 322
Events
Friday, November 8
Friday’s LIVE Season 53 E04 hosted by Ben Christiansen 8:00 pm
Studio C (RTV 515)
Humans vs. Zombies NERF Tag hosted by: Bobcat Blasters 8:00 pm - 11:45pm Walter Hall
Saturday, November 9
All Day Gaming Event hosted by: Bobcat Tabletop 10:00 am-10:00 pm Living Learning Center
Sunday, November 10
Sip & Draw hosted by Caribbean Scholars Association 4:00 - 7:00 pm Baker Center
*RSVP on bobcat connect limited spots available
Friday, November 1 &2
Family Weekend Campfire TBA Meet in Ping
Tuesday, November 12
Sorority & Fraternity Life PAWS for a Cause 7:00 - 8:00 pm Baker Ballroom
Wednesday, November 13
OHIO Greeks New Member Workshop 2:30 - 4:30 pm Baker 237
SCAN for more events
October 25
Adrian @ OHIO
7:00 PM
November 1 & 2
Delaware @ OHIO
7:00 PM
November 15 & 16
Grand Valley State @ OHIO 7:00 PM
November 22 & 23
Oregon @ OHIO
7:00 PM
December 6 & 7
Maryville @ OHIO
7:00 PM
(follow on X for streaming link)
Organizations, businesses voice the power of voting
CARLY DELUCA | SLOT EDITOR
Election Day is fast approaching, and although the voter registration deadline has passed, local businesses and campus organizations are advocating for Athens residents to vote.
According to a study from Tufts University, in the 2020 presidential election, the national student registration rate was 83%, up from 76% in 2016, and the national student voting rate was 66%, up from 52% in 2016. Even though there was an increase in voter turnout from the 2016 to 2020 presidential elections, there still is a gap between those who register to vote and those who make it to the polls.
Many organizations in Athens hold voting initiatives to ensure political participation in college students continues to grow and the gap between registered voters and those who make it to the polls closes.
One of those organizations is the League of Women Voters in Athens County. The Athens branch is part of a national group that strives to eliminate barriers to political participation so diverse perspectives can be represented in government. Co-President Adriane Mohlenkamp discussed the importance of getting to the polls and being educated on local candidates as well as national candidates.
“The more local the race, it's often
more of a direct impact on people's day-to-day lives,” Mohlenkamp said. “For example, a lot of townships are in charge of road maintenance … Our county commissioners, they oversee the budget for the county … It takes a fewer number of voters to make a difference in those elections.”
Local businesses are also encouraging Athens residents to vote. Bagel Street Deli, located at 27 S. Court St., is holding a “Voter Benefits” event from Oct. 14 to Nov. 5, where voters can get a free bag of chips or fountain drink if they show their “I Voted” sticker at the register.
Additionally, Jon Rose, a candidate for Athens County Commissioner, is a barista at Donkey Coffee and asks people at the register if they are registered to vote and answers questions people have on the upcoming election.
Campus organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union Ohio University Campus Action Team understand the complexities of voting, especially for outof-state students or those voting through a mail-in ballot.
Alyssa Gray, a sophomore studying political science, is the new member coordinator of ACLU-OU. She discussed how the group educated students on their civil liberties, who the candidates are on the ballots and how to fill out voter registration forms.
“I think a lot of people, the reason why
they don't register to vote is because they don't understand the forms and how all of that stuff works,” Gray said. “So I think it's really important to have someone else who knows the process and all those things to help you fill out the forms.”
Student Senate’s governmental affairs commission also works to bring political education to OU students and is the liaison between students and the local, state and federal governments. Senate hosts informational events, has resources in its office for absentee voting and posts flyers on Instagram about important dates surrounding the election.
Donald Theisen is a sophomore studying political science and economics and serves as the governmental affairs commissioner. He recently hosted a “Meet the Candidates” event where the two candidates running for the 95th District seat of the Ohio House of Representatives could talk to students about their campaigns.
“We managed to have them both (the candidates) here and ask them questions,” Theisen
said. “Generally, we just wanted to know anything the students were wondering of them, anything that may be pertinent to us as students now and then in the future when we apply for jobs.”
These businesses and organizations all have one thing in common: the importance of people using their voices and exercising their right to vote. Although simple, they all advocate that every vote matters and can make a difference in the election’s outcome.
“Your vote is one of the tools in your toolkit,” Theisen said. “It's important to make use of it.”
@CARLYDELUCAA
Student organizations anticipate Election Day
Student organizations have spent countless hours providing students with opportunities to get more involved with the upcoming election. Sean Slatzer, a junior studying political science, is the president of one of these groups on campus: Ohio University College Democrats.
“Getting younger people to vote is our big thing, and also educating them on the issues because most people our age don’t know about a lot of issues and what we’re even voting for,” Slatzer said.
Previous events hosted by the organization have included canvassing, voter registration, letter writing and phone banking. Their primary goal of voter education will culminate in the group’s final meeting before Election Day, an educational session that will give young voters
a chance to learn about the different issues and candidates on this year’s ballots.
A similar event, called “Know yOUr Vote,” was recently hosted by the OU chapter of BridgeUSA in partnership with the Athens League of Women Voters following the first presidential debate in September.
“BridgeUSA is an international organization that fights polarization by encouraging civil and respectful discourse on divisive topics across party lines,” Cayla Otto, a sophomore studying environmental studies, said.
Otto founded the chapter during her freshman year and served as president until the organization disbanded in mid-October.
“I’m actually kind of encouraged by not
seeing a really intense need for the BridgeUSA club on our campus,” Otto said.
“The way that my vice president and I see it, there’s a really good culture of conversation here at OU already.”
However, Otto also believes there are still gaps to fill in the political conversations held across campus.
“I think we’d like to see more space open for conservative views because we’re a pretty liberal school and maybe some people aren’t speaking out on that side,” she said.
An integral part of OU’s non-partisan conversation culture is The New Political, an independent publication that focuses on local, state and national politics. Rachel Yount is a junior studying journalism, as well as the managing editor of TNP.
“Our main priority is informing people or creating that dialogue and getting more conversation started about these topics,” Yount said.
Although TNP is a digital-first publication, they publish multiple print projects a year with the first one of the semester hitting newsstands Friday.
“We wanted to get it in newsstands a little bit before the election and it just focuses on the election,” Yount said.
“There’s a news story about political violence and the history of that, there’s some opinions on things like the electoral college and certain thoughts about certain candidates.”
In addition to their first print of the year, TNP has been hosting debate watch parties in collaboration with Ohio Involvement and plans on hosting another event as results filter in Nov. 5.
“We’re just going to be waiting and seeing what happens if there is any chaos after this election, depending on who wins and stuff like that,” Yount said. “We’re just going to be very prepared for whatever we need to write about next or have opinions on next.”
Before disbanding, BridgeUSA’s national team anticipated conflict to follow either outcome of the presidential election. According to Otto, in case of the threat of violence, the organization is set to come together to provide support across chapters by teaching rapid response moderation, a framework designed to help “sort out our thoughts and feelings in a more controlled and respectful environment.”
Slatzer has been preparing for the election by encouraging members of OU College Democrats to “stay as emotionally grounded as possible.” He also hopes people focus their attention on local issues as the election draws closer.
“A lot of people don’t know about a lot of local issues, like the library levy and stuff like that,” he said. “If I can focus on one thing it would definitely be everything besides the presidential election because everybody knows who they’re voting for by now.”
Slatzer hopes young voters continue researching and don’t solely rely on the inclusion of a candidate’s affiliated party on this year’s ballot to inform their votes, and Yount hopes people “use their voices and … the outcome of this election is reflective of that.”
A woman holds a voting sign while walking down Court St. during the 2024 Homecoming Parade in Athens, Sept. 28, 2024. (ELLE MALTRY | FOR THE POST)
Board of Elections Court Street, Athens. Oct. 24, 2024. (RACHEL KLANCHER | FOR THE POST)
SOPHIA ROOKSBERRY | HUMAN INTEREST STAFF WRITER
New college students battle nerves over 2024 election
AIDEN RYAN | FOR THE POST
Election Day is one week away and Ohio University students share concerns over the election and impending results.
Griffin Luebke, a freshman studying film, pointed to his concerns centering around the electoral college system.
“With an electoral college system, I don’t really feel like the election is in our hands,” Luebke said. “It’s in the hands of undecided voters in Pennsylvania.”
There is a growing concern among students that no matter their civic engagement, other places across the country will have a greater means of deciding the final count. Those who just entered college face the task of voting. knowing their decisions will impact the next four years.
“Elections dictate the next four years, and it’s going to be my college years,”
Lindsey Acker, a freshman studying film, said.
While students generally have these concerns, some signs indicate encouragement on campus.
Kalli Langdon, a freshman studying film, said she has been seeing groups on campus that encourage students to vote.
“They just want you to at least get involved and take an interest in politics,” she said. “I think that’s very important.”
OU’s recent event, the Absen-Tea Party occurred Oct. 21 and Oct. 23 and
fielded questions from students and faculty about how their absentee ballot could best be completed in the 2024 election.
OU has made attempts to encourage students to vote. The university’s Center for Community Engagement offers students resources for registering to vote and voting by mail.
As the election draws nearer, student organizations campaign and voice their
support for political representatives.
Acker said she has seen students and locals demonstrating their political opinions around campus, especially with flags and yard signs. Acker believes these initiatives are due to students realizing their actions as voters affect their futures.
“I feel like this is going to have a really big impact on the culture and the energy (of the country), and obviously,
on the actual government,” Langdon said. “I’m pretty nervous.”
For students on nearby campuses, the stakes remain just as high.
“(The election represents) a big difference between finally having a chance at equality or a Handmaid’s Tale,” Elizabeth Catalan, a student at Columbus State Community College, said.
Catalan holds personal thoughts on the election candidates.
“With being an immigrant, it affects me a lot knowing the things that the former president has said about people from my country,” Catalan said. “It’s just difficult.”
In a highly contentious election, students see a stark difference between the two major parties. Luebke worried people have concerned themselves with trivial matters compared to climate change, inflation and wealth disparities.
One of the most common emotions students described was feeling nervous. Luebke described a moment that made him especially nervous during fall break.
Students are not the only ones recognizing the vocal nature of OU student organizations and initiatives. He recalled a moment when a dad picked up his daughter and the first thing he said to her was, “‘How does it feel to get off that woke-a*** campus?’”
@AIDEN_WITH_AN_I AR260223@OHIO.EDU
Registered party voters in Ohio
Republican voters lead over Democrats in Ohio early voting data
Ohio residents have until Nov. 3 to vote early, and 1.6 million voters have already cast their ballots as of Sunday evening, according to WLWT. The Ohio Secretary of State’s office saw 1,637,003 ballots cast in the state, WLWT reported. Of those ballots, 786,422 are unaffiliated party voters because they did not participate in a recent party primary election. Of party-affiliated voters, 503,437 voted as Republicans, and 341,046 voted as Democrats, according to WLWT. Regarding partisan voters, 59.6% of early voters are Republicans and 40.4% are Democrats.
1,637,003 ballots cast in Ohio as of Sunday
An Ohio voting sticker placed on the window of the Board of Elections in Athens, Ohio, Aug. 30, 2023.
(ALAINA DACKERMANN | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY)
Police Blotter: Suspicious sandwich, destruction of property
ELIZABETH TALAGA | SLOT EDITOR
22 Tues____________________
Central classroom damage
Officers from Ohio University Police Department responded to the Central Classroom Building Tuesday for destruction of property, according to OUPD.
A report was taken for damage to a computer cabinet, according to OUPD.
22 Tues____________________
Where are the car keys?
Deputies from the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to Kroger in Glouster Tuesday for an individual who locked his car keys inside his vehicle.
Deputies were able to unlock the vehicle and returned to patrol, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
22 Tues____________________
The juveniles are well
Deputies responded to East Third Street in The Plains Tuesday for a well-being check on juveniles, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies contacted the mother, and the juveniles were all found to be fine, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
23 Wed____________________
Listening ears are off
Deputies responded to Fairfield Street in Stewart Wednesday in regards to an unruly juvenile who was throwing rocks and refusing to listen to his parents, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies spoke to all parties involved, and the juvenile was sent to stay with family friends for the night, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
23 Wed____________________
Lost and found
Deputies responded to a woman in reference to a missing person complaint Wednesday, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
While conducting the investigation, the missing woman was located, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
23 Wed____________________
Just a little rest
Deputies responded to state Route 550 in Amesville in reference to a man lying on the side of the road, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the man said he was walking a long distance and stopped for a rest.
23 Wed____________________
It’s just a joke…
Deputies responded to a woman reporting a scam or prank phone call Wednesday, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies found no criminal offense occurred, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
24 Thurs____________________
That’s not going to work
Officers from OUPD responded to Pickering Hall Thursday for a fake ID, according to OUPD.
The ID was confiscated for destruction, according to OUPD.
24 Thurs____________________
Suspicious sandwich
Deputies responded to state Route 550 Thursday to inspect a sandwich suspected to have a foreign substance on it, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Upon arrival, deputies were informed the individual ate the entire sandwich, thus there was nothing to inspect, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
24 Thurs____________________
Damaged goods
Deputies responded to Elm Street in Stewart Thursday in regards to a complaint about a political sign being damaged, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
A report was taken and an investigation is pending, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
24 Thurs____________________
Felon on the run
Deputies responded to state Route 550 Thursday in an attempt to locate an individual with felony warrants out of Athens County, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies were unable to locate the individual, so no further action was needed.
24 Thurs____________________
Felon found
Deputies initiated a traffic stop Thursday on a vehicle on state Route 13, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies made contact with the driver and found she had an active felony warrant for her arrest out of the Sheriff’s Office. The woman was arrested without incident, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
2024 presidential candidates use music as political tool
ALEXANDRA HOPKINS | FOR THE POST
Music has played a crucial role in the 2024 presidential campaign, resulting in a cacophony of emotions and feedback from the music industry. From onstage performances, to cease and desist letters, presidential candidates cannot resist using music as a tool.
National anthems, walk-on songs, worship music, theme songs and soundtracks; music is used in everything political. It has been used throughout history as a symbol, whether in celebration or in warning, song communicates powerful messages.
Politicians have been using music as a way to bring in voters for centuries.
Former President Ronald Reagan began the use of walk-on/ walk-off music, during his reelection campaign in 1984.
“Born in the U.S.A.” by Bruce Springsteen was declared Regan’s anthem, an odd choice given the meaning behind the
Even before Reagan, politicians used music to rile up crowds and supporters. As far back as George Washington (whose personal anthem was “God Save Great Washington,” a remix of “God Save The King”), presidential candidates have used or written songs to campaign with.
The 2024 Presidential Election has seen its fair share of music usage at rallies, conventions and other stops along the campaign trail. Both candidates, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, have used music to communicate with their supporters.
Harris has used a variety of songs on the campaign trail, but most notable is her use of Beyoncé’s 2016 hit “Freedom.”
The singer-songwriter previously permitted Harris to use the song, which was featured in the campaign’s launch video. Yet, her support goes beyond just music. Recently, Beyoncé introduced Harris to the stage at a rally in Houston, and the support from singers does not stop there.
Last week, Eminem introduced for-
mer president Barack Obama at a rally in Detroit. The rapper endorsed Harris, citing the importance of free speech before introducing Obama. After joining the rapper onstage, the former president partially recited the lyrics to Eminem’s “Lose Yourself,” stating “I love me some Eminem.”
However, singers appearing at rallies are not exclusive to the Democratic campaign.
Kid Rock performed before Donald Trump’s speech at the 2024 Republican National Convention. The musician performed his song “American Bad A--.” On Oct. 27, country music singer Lee Greenwood performed at Madison Square Garden ahead of Trump’s rally. Greenwood’s “God Bless the U.S.A.” has often been used by Trump during his campaign.
Music usage, however, does not come without its adversaries. The Trump campaign has been hit with dozens of legal requests from musicians to stop usage of their songs, immediately.
In 2020, Donald Trump received a cease and desist from Tom Petty’s family for his use of the late singer’s “I Won’t Back Down” at a rally. However, Trump is not the first presidential candidate in legal trouble for the use of Petty’s song.
During the 2000 presidential election, George W. Bush frequently used Petty’s song during his campaign appearances. The future president was hit with a cease and desist letter from Petty, who refused to endorse the candidate. Adele, The White Stripes, Pharrell Williams, Neil Young, Rihanna, Prince, Queen and Nickelback are just a few of the other artists who have protested Trump’s use of their music.
These requests, however, can be ignored. For years, the Village People have requested their song “Y.M.C.A.” is no longer played at Trump rallies. Yet, the song has become somewhat synonymous with the former president's campaign.
Presidential candidates use music to their advantage. When done well, music can send a powerful message to voters. When done poorly, or in bad taste, it can sour voters' perception of their campaign.
If presidential candidates have realized one thing, it is that there is no better way to bring a group together than through music.
MIA PISHOTTI | ART DIRECTOR
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THE POST Tracking Trends: Students reflect on celebrity political endorsements
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Social media is a powerful tool, used by corporations, celebrities and everyday individuals as a way to quickly communicate thoughts and feelings. As the 2024 presidential election draws near, how do OU students feel about celebrities endorsing political figures on social media?
The 2024 presidential election has been the most followed election in history. Over half of Americans report following the election “very or fairly closely,” according to Pew Research Center. Social media is the second most common way American adults get political news, following news websites or apps.
As Election Day draws near, celebrities are flocking to social media to endorse their pick for president.
Finley McNamee, a freshman studying environmental biology, reflected on the potential impact of celebrities endorsing presidential candidates.
“I think (celebrity endorsements) are pretty powerful,” McNamee said. “I think that it is part of a celebrity's job to endorse people they want to see in office, especially because they have such an influence on the public eye, and their fan bases are loyal to both them and often their beliefs.”
Taylor Swift, a singer with a generally young fanbase, endorsed Kamala Harris in an Instagram post last month. “I’ve done my research, and I’ve made my choice,” the super star wrote. Swift signed her message “Childless Cat Lady,” a sarcastic comment in response to Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance’s previous comments.
on who they're surrounded by and what kind of information they're being fed,” McNamee said.
Many celebrities have withheld posting any endorsement, despite the call of fans. Rachel Staheli, a sophomore studying hearing, speech and language sciences, commended singer Chappell Roan’s approach.
“I agree with Chappell Roan’s approach of saying, ‘of course I’m voting for Kamala, but that doesn't mean that I support everything she does,’” Staheli said. “Whereas there are other people that are very full force, one way or the other, without
stated she will vote for Harris, but will not endorse the campaign. However, students question whether endorsements actually impact voters at the polls.
“I highly doubt it,” Staheli said. “I feel like it would more sway people's opinions of the celebrities than of the candidates.”
Connor Arnold, a sophomore studying psychology, discussed Jack Black’s recent controversy. Black announced the end of the Tenacious D World Tour on Instagram, following bandmate Kyle Gass’ comment on an assassination attempt on Donald Trump.
any sort of nuance within how they approach it.”
Roan recently faced backlash for a statement she made during an interview with The Guardian.
Though it is difficult to predict how celebrity endorsements will impact the polls, experts suggest it brings awareness to new demographics, especially in younger generations.
“With younger kids who can't vote, growing up with these celebrities who express certain beliefs, it really impacts how they vote, depending
“I have so many issues with our government in every way,” Roan said. “There are so many things that I would want to change. So I don’t feel pressured to endorse someone. There are problems on both sides. I encourage people to use your critical thinking skills, use your vote — vote small, vote for what’s going on in your city.”
Following this interview, fans rushed to support and criticize Roan’s statement. Roan has since
“I get promoting certain political people, but I think a full force reaction like that is too much because then it only really reflects back onto you as a celebrity,” Arnold said. “People (who support Tenacious D) aren’t going to be like … ‘I support the band, let’s vote for Trump.’ That’s not going to happen.”
Despite Black stating the comedy duo will return, the Spicy Meatball Tour remains canceled with no future plans.
Anna McCabe, a freshman studying biological sciences, said endorsements can bring awareness to issues common people are not aware of.
“I would hope that most people base their opinions on their own morals,” McCabe said. “Not what social media influencers or famous people who have a big platform are saying, because they’re basing it on their own morals and judgments.”
Numerous celebrities have used social media to show support for their candidate of choice, including Jennifer Lawrence, Olivia Rodrigo, Mark Hamill and Elon Musk.
With Nov. 5 just a few days away, it is clear that the intersection of pop culture and politics can no longer be ignored.
(MIA PISHOTTI | ART DIRECTOR)
2024 presidential candidates’ style defines them
CLARA LEDER | FOR THE POST
The 2024 election season is coming to a head with a little over a week until Election Day. Both former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have used fashion to play a memorable role in their campaigns this election season.
Harris has embraced both professional and casual looks to relate to a wide range of audiences. For rallies and debates, she has been rocking tailored pantsuits, often pairing them with pearls and heels. She aims to not draw attention to her style with her outfits, and the choice to dress in a pantsuit puts her on the same professional-looking level as the men she is competing against, who often wear a suit as a regular uniform.
Harris’ outfits are frequently neutral tones, such as browns and beiges, with a few blue and purple suits popping up along the way. She has intentionally not been taking many fashion risks and has managed to stay out of much criticism for her tailored looks due to their simple appearance. However, she has been wearing more casual, noteworthy looks during informal events.
Harris often wears approachable outfits during informal events, putting her on the same level as voters. She wore a zip-up imitation sweatsuit when she went on the hit podcast, “Call Her Daddy.” Her presence on the podcast sparked enough debate from the public and the rhetoric did not include her outfit. The use of a more relaxed look for a sit-down interview made the conversation feel authentic and natural for viewers.
Despite remaining relatively simple with her outfits, Harris’ Converse shoes define her style. Her casual shoe choice is seen at state rallies and is beloved by many people. It is a simple change from her usual pantsuit-heels combo, but the Converse are a memorable addition to her outfits. Her fashion choices of mixing more casual looks with elegant suits appeal to younger voters.
Contrasting the diverse range in style of Harris, Trump often sticks to the script when it comes to fashion. He frequents a navy suit with shoulder pads and a red tie, which has become his signature look over the years. The go-to outfit is sleek and simple but makes the presidential candidate appear strong and prepared. His style is straight forward and familiar, bringing him a sense of consis tency with voters. By keeping a simple color palette of red and blue, he also draws relation to patriotic ideals.
The inclusion of red in his looks nods to the Re publican party's colors. The color evokes a sense of pride from supporters and resonates with traditional audiences. Trump’s color choice creates a strong con nection with Republicans and displays a unified front.
The color red is also frequently associated with the American flag and symbolizes sacrifice and courage, two themes Trump has preached during his campaign. The bold color scheme also resembles Trump’s blunt leadership style and his supporter’s strong following. His signature look during election season is in line with his straightforward policies and highlights the importance of his party’s support.
Both candidates have also played with fashion in terms of campaign merchandise. Harris teamed up with high-end fashion designers to create her merch line “Designers for Democracy.” The line features well-crafted pieces from designers such as Vera Wang and Sergio Hudson, which some viewers see as representing her aim for inclusion. The designs are colorful, creative and convey a sense of belonging amongst her supporters.
Trump has also used his campaign merch to unite voters. His famous slogan, “Make America Great Again,” is quintessential in declaring loyalty among his supporters. The slogan is featured on hats, sweatshirts, shirts and flags and makes a strong statement. Donning the slogan
Many have criticized the MAGA merchandise and the overall need for Trump’s signature slogan. Most recently, Sen. Mitch McConnell shared his disapproval of the slogan in an upcoming biography, saying it is completely wrong. The need to “Make America Great Again” while uniting his party, pushes opponents further away from supporting Trump.
Both candidates utilize fashion to highlight their personalities. Each candidate's fashion choices highlight their distinct approaches to the campaign and their differing visions for America.
TV, film reflect America's most pressing issues
NYLA GILBERT | FOR THE POST
In 2024, TV show creators and filmmakers are taking it upon themselves to use their media to explore the discussions, issues and political figures on the public’s minds during this election season.
The 2024 Donald Trump biopic “The Apprentice” was released Oct. 11. This biopic is a dramatization of the former president’s early career and is set to appear on streaming services Friday. The film’s release sparked conversation around its timing from its actors and Trump campaign members.
“The Boys” season 4 was released in June, with its obvious satirical commentary of political parties. The season received criticism for its “woke” propaganda, but addressed this criticism in the show through Vought’s “Go Woke, Get Yoked” campaign. The show has always been a commentary on political media, particularly right-wing media with the creators frequently speaking about this.
In 2022, the show received specific criticism for its political satire with the release of the season 3 episode “The Last Time to Look on This World of Lies.” Screenshots of Reddit users supporting problematic characters were posted on X and reposted by “The Boys” official X page with the caption “Enjoy!!!.”
On Nov. 14, 2020, protestors gathered on D.C.’s Pennsylvania Avenue to voice their desire for former President Trump to be re-elected. “The Boys” showrunner Eric Kripke, actor Anthony Starr, who plays Homelander, and series co-creator Darick Robertson voiced their confusion about the protestors' use of Homelander as a positive figure.
Season 4 of “The Boys” was no different, doubling down on its political satire that has caused the show backlash for five years.
Other pieces of media act as criticisms of modern politics with fictional worlds. Feminists and other pro-women’s rights organiza- tions use “The Handmaid’s Tale” to describe the future of women under current legislation. Atwood wrote the novel under “specula- tive fiction,” taking a new spin on horror and psychological horror, and said the book
was based on the political and social climate of the ‘80s. With the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022, Margaret Atwood and executive producer Warren Littlefield voiced their opinions by citing the content of the show.
“We’ve said many times over several years we would love to be less relevant,” Littlefield said in an interview with Deadline. “Sadly, the show’s been hauntingly relevant. And today appears even more so.”
Referencing the Civil Rights movement, Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s X-Men series centers on teenagers who fight to protect a world against them. The “X-Men ‘97” animated series remains relevant in 2024, demonstrating that Lee’s mission for the mutants is not over.
The show handled issues like generational ethnic trauma, bigotry, terrorism, retaliation and systematic oppression with an abrasive elegance the X-Men were founded on. Although “X-Men ‘97” received backlash for being “woke,” some viewers pointed out that other viewers missed the message on which X-Men were founded.
Social media plays a big part in the political awareness of citizens today. However, the source material for many of the political issues being discussed, and the content inspired by them, are decades old. It shows how prolonged these relevant topics are along with the awareness of the lack of evolution in the state of American society.
NICOLE REESE | ASST. ART DIRECTOR
Aiden’s Add-On: America faces a number of electoral challenges
AIDEN RYAN | FOR THE POST
Despite the historical prospects of this election’s outcome, the two-party system in America has failed to meet millions of voters’ needs. With a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, impending climate crises across the globe and threats to civil rights at home, Democrats and Republicans have engaged in a goose chase with voters, alienating many from their base of support.
The most pressing issue the U.S. Electoral College system faces is the “winner takes all” precedent. Besides Maine and Nebraska, the remaining 48 states and the District of Columbia assign all their electors to the winner of the majority vote, even if by slim margins.
This pushes presidential candidates to seek votes in a handful of states across the country whose ever-changing electoral behavior critically influences the race’s outcome. According to NPR, it is estimated that “5% of the voters in five counties in five states could determine the outcome of this year’s contest.” Thus, candidates must turn their attention to these states to win enough votes for their party.
In this process, the needs of those in
other states are often sacrificed to pull a larger number of voters from deciding states. This can be seen with Vice President Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump’s support of the Israeli government, according to The Times of Israel.
The Israeli government has been accused of committing genocide in Gaza by human rights organizations, including “reasonable grounds” accusations of genocide presented to the United Nations. The Guardian reports that although both candidates have taken moderate stances on the issue, many Arab-Americans and Muslim-Americans feel they have been alienated by the two candidate’s views.
This has caused many voters to seek third-party candidates, such as Green Party candidate Jill Stein.
According to the Council on American Islamic Relations, Stein leads Harris among Muslim-Americans in Arizona, Michigan and Wisconsin by at least five percentage points.
This presents a worrying shift for Democrats, especially in a race that is essentially a deadlock tie, according to the final New York Times/Sienna National Poll. Due to the aid given to Israel, Democrats have supported the genocide of Palestinians in Gaza and
will likely see a portion of their base electorate voting for third-party candidates like Stein.
According to The Washington Post, certain Democrats have voted in favor of sending aid to Israel. The party may thus see a number of usually Democratic supporters voting for third-party candidates, including Stein.
In deciding swing states, even a slight shift in voting patterns could significantly sway the election’s outcome. Yet voting is an inherent right in American democracy. Despite the devastating results that voting for third parties could yield in this election, some Americans are simply tired of failures within the two major parties. If the candidates are not willing to change their stances on major issues such as the crisis in Gaza, they will find that many votes have been cast elsewhere.
Americans will take their grievances to the polls if nothing can be done to reach voters across the country, not just within swing states. Despite these challenges, there are only two candidates who are going to come anywhere close to winning 270 electoral votes: Trump and Harris. Although it is valid to exercise the right to vote in this country, the American political system functions to elect a Democrat or
Republican to the White House and no one else.
It is a tragedy that greater political diversity has yet to exist within American institutions, but this is the reality that will be decided Tuesday. It is unlikely that Stein will win the 2024 election, and any loss of votes for the Democratic Party creates a greater space for Trump’s victory.
A vote for a third-party candidate is not a “waste” as publications such as U.S News characterize them, but it does detract from the challenges that face Americans in 2024. Stein cannot save America this election, and the consequences of a Trump presidency could plunge America into a damning and dark place.
There is little time to fundamentally change the election system before Tuesday, but the electoral college that puts Americans in this position is not the solution to their woes.
Aiden is a freshman studying journalism. Please note that the views expressed in this column do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Aiden? Reach him on Instagram at @aiden_with_an_i_ or email him at ar260223@ohio.edu.
Sassy Cassie: Voting choices for out-of-state students are complex
I am from Pennsylvania and go to school out of my home state. So, I had to vote through a mail-in ballot. However, the decision to vote in my home state did not come easily to me. Ohio has issues that are important to me on the ballot this year, such as Issue 1 and the U.S. Senate race between Bernie Moreno and Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH). However, I chose to vote in my home state because Pennsylvania is a swing state, and the House of Representatives race in my home county is important.
A lot of things go into choosing to go to college out of someone’s home state. One thing that does not come into consideration when choosing a school out of state is voting in an election. Getting an absentee ballot is fairly easy, but choosing to vote in a home state or the state someone currently resides in is a conflicting decision.
In the fall of 2024, Ohio University had a total of 628 out-of-state freshman students. Although some students came from across the country, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Illinois had the largest numbers. Pennsylvania is a known swing state
in presidential elections. A swing state is a state that could be won by either party that is running for the presidential election. These states are usually won by small margins and change parties from election to election.
There are seven key swing states in every election, including Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania is arguably the most important swing state, seeing that it carries the most electoral votes out of the seven swing states.
In 2016 former President Donald Trump won Pennsylvania by 0.73% of the votes, and in 2020 President Joe Biden won the state by 1.17% of votes. Because of how close the vote is in the state, out-of-state college students in Pennsylvania are changing their voter registration to the state because they know their vote will count more there. Deciding to vote in a home state or where someone goes to college in any election requires a lot of thought. The first thing is what is actually on the ballot, asking questions like if it is a local election or presidential election. Another thing to consider is how someone’s vote may impact the results. In every election, every vote is important. In a presidential election, however, some votes in certain states carry more weight because of how
close the margins can be.
If a college student decides to vote in their home state, they must keep up with local politics. On the ballot there is more than just the presidential election, there can also be the school board or the mayor of someone’s hometown.
If a college student decides to change their residence to their school’s state, they have to look at
the residency requirements for voter registration. Out-of-state students should consider where to vote before registering.
Cassie is a junior studying communications at Ohio University. Please note the views expressed in this column do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Cassie? Email her at cb086021@ ohio.edu.
CASSIE DYE | FOR THE POST
Blabby Abby: Political advertising contributes to voter division
ABBY JENKINS | HUMAN INTEREST EDITOR
The main purpose of political advertising is persuasion and both candidates for this year’s presidential election have taken two distinctive routes to target an audience. which as a result, contributes to form a political divide in the U.S.
Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have utilized very similar tactics for informing voters on policies in two very different ways. For example, Trump is long associated with his campaign slogan, “Make America Great Again,” which many Republicans have latched onto.
Trump’s campaign has colored itself red, white and blue, utilizing patriotism in his MAGA campaign. It’s something Republican voters want to see, with MAGA being defined by Britannica as a belief that “the United States was once a ‘great’ country but has lost this status owing to foreign influence, both within its borders and without.”
Using this ideology as the center, Trump has surrounded his campaign with a false sense of optimism under a catchy slogan for his voters. With patriotism often related to family values and undeniable devotion to the U.S., many of Trump’s actions have gone directly against these ideals.
Despite this, some of his voters are captured by the
aesthetic of his campaign due to its patriotic appearance. His target audience is geared more toward older Americans, seeing as the majority of people over age 40 self-identify as Republican, according to the Pew Research Center. His campaign boosted its advertisements after spending nearly $100 million immediately after Harris’ presidential campaign took off.
Trump’s campaign has geared itself toward the most radical of his voters, catering more to MAGA Republicans instead of the Republican Party as a whole, furthering the political divide by pushing his voters into a radical corner using “patriotism” as its cover.
Harris’ campaign is guilty of the same thing, just under a different banner. The most prominent example appears in bright “BRAT” green following Charli XCX’s endorsement of Harris for president. Harris is gearing her campaign to younger voters, seeing as the majority of people 30 years old and under would identify as Democrats.
After “BRAT” took off as one of the most popular albums of the year, edits of Harris to songs on the album caught the attention of young voters as she leaned into internet trends, a similar strategy to the approach Trump’s campaign took with an older demographic.
It is dangerous to utilize pop culture references to
gain voters instead of promoting policies and encouraging voters to do their research. Following the endorsement of celebrities like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, Harris’ campaign is using the fan bases of top stars to center one of the most important elections in U.S. history.
Both the dangers of Harris and Trump’s political campaigns are contributing to an even wider political divide in the U.S. Older Republican voters are looking for the familiar sense of patriotism they grew up with, while younger voters are captured by the words of their favorite singers, leading to little to no persuasion on either side. Instead, these campaigns are trying to keep those votes and opinions secure and ensure those people will hit the polls Nov. 5.
Despite the overall hatred of the number of political ads online and on television, voters should hold their candidates to a higher standard to push to educate and persuade instead of continuing to divide an already halved nation.
Abby Jenkins is a junior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnist do not reflect those of The Post. What are your thoughts? Let Abby know by tweeting her @abbyjenks18 or emailing her at aj205621@ohio.edu.
Lately with Layne: Prioritize democracy at the polls this election
LAYNE REY | FOR THE POST
As Election Day looms, there is a moment in history that Americans must not ignore when casting their votes. Jan. 6, 2021, marked not only a physical attack of violence on the Capitol, but an everlasting attack on democracy as a whole. Former President Donald Trump set a precedent during the insurrection that undermines the democratic process – and he wasn’t even in office.
An Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research survey found that every three in ten Republicans had little to no confidence in the legitimacy of their most recent primaries and caucuses. Concern surrounding counting votes and fraud will only increase in a larger and higher-stakes election.
This is exactly the reason Trump supporters attacked the Capitol following the last presidential election. He violently promoted false notions of a stolen election –still not admitting that he lost fairly – and supporters blindly believed him.
Judges, including some appointed by Trump himself, found no evidence of fraud that would have changed the outcome of the 2020 election. Yet, his narrative lives on – representing the decay of trust in the democratic process.
Now, Americans fear attacks following Nov. 5, which is arguably even more competitive than the 2020 race.
A Reuters poll found that every two in three Americans worry about violence in the upcoming election – including both Republicans and Democrats. This high level of anxiety – a level which was likely nonexistent eight years ago – is a direct result of Trump’s resistance to a peaceful transfer of power.
Trump’s inability to accept election results and peacefully transfer power represents his prioritization of personal power over serving the American people – and extremists are helping him.
MSNBC reported that agents from the FBI and Department of Homeland Security are warning local law enforcement about potential violence from domestic
extremists on Election Day. Driven by conspiracies of voter fraud and an intense sense of polarization, extremists are continuing to promote Trump’s precedent of violence.
Democracy is only upheld when every individual has a voice. The misinformation and violence which Trump endorsed following a fair election is affecting Americans expressing their right to vote today.
Jan. 6 should serve as a stark reminder that the effects of a second Trump term are inimaginable. His ability to undermine democracy outside of office will only increase if given legitimate power.
Typically, Americans are able to cast their votes for favorable policies or candidates, but this election has more at stake. Voting with upholding democracy and its fair processes in mind is crucial for a more stable future.
Layne Rey is a junior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnist do not reflect those of The Post.
Letter to the Editor: Trust in our election system
Dear Editor:
Trust in our election system is fundamental to democracy. Ensuring our community understands the security measures in place is critical to building that trust.
As a poll worker and as an observer for the League of Women Voters at Board of Elections meetings, we’ve seen firsthand the rigorous safeguards in place to ensure that every vote is secure. We’d like to share some insights about the process so our community can better understand how our elections work.
Before Election Day, voting machines and tabulators — which are never connected to the internet — undergo bipartisan testing for accuracy and security. The equipment is stored in secure, locked locations with tamper-proof seals, only accessible when both a Republican and a Democratic election official are
present. Additionally, our local BOE implements ongoing security upgrades, both physical and cyber, to protect the integrity of the election.
Poll workers, who are required to work in bipartisan groups, are thoroughly trained on Ohio’s voting rules and procedures. As election season approaches, BOE staff work to educate voters to minimize errors and ensure that all votes are counted correctly. The ballot drop box is under constant electronic surveillance and is physically checked regularly, with any handling of ballots or voting equipment done by bipartisan teams.
On Election Day, all precincts are staffed by these bipartisan teams of trained poll workers. Throughout the day, BOE staff meticulously reconcile voting lists to ensure no votes are counted twice, and every Ohio ballot is backed up with a hard-copy paper trail,
regardless of the method used to cast it.
After the election, counties conduct public post-election audits to ensure the count’s accuracy. If a recount is necessary, it is done by hand, with representatives from both parties observing the process.
Thanks to Ohio’s rigorous regulations and the tireless efforts of BOE staff, our elections are secure. Every vote is vital, and every vote counts.
In this election, as in every election, your vote is your voice. With Ohio’s secure and transparent process in place, there’s no reason to sit out. Make a plan now to vote and ensure your voice is heard — because every voter helps uphold the integrity of our democracy.
Adriane Mohlenkamp & Helen King League of Women Voters of Athens County
Editorial: Unity during election season is necessary
POST EDITORIAL STAFF
As the 2024 Presidential Election draws closer, tensions are high, and the U.S. is more divided than ever.
In a country as large and diverse as the U.S., ideological differences are inevitable and uncontrollable. What Americans can control, however, is how they engage with those differences. Unity doesn’t require complete agreement, it only requires a commitment to respect and the democratic process.
A key component of building that mindset lies in the ability to engage in civil discourse. Social media is arguably the loudest voice in politics and often amplifies conflict by drowning out more nuanced perspectives. In an environment so dependent on making information not only eye-catching but also concise and digestible, complex issues become too easily reduced to 7-second sound bites that hold no real substance.
According to the Pew Research Center, 54% of U.S. adults get some of their news from social media; recognizing and being aware of its superficiality is essential to approaching the consumption of information critically and engaging with others thoughtfully and constructively.
It is also important to remember that political differences stem from a shared desire to better the country and improve the lives of Americans. Most individuals are motivated by a commitment to their fellow man and a vision for a more equitable future. Whether their political beliefs lean left, right or fall somewhere in the middle, the majority of Americans believe in the country’s core values of equality, liberty and progress. Instead of viewing opposing opinions as threats, approach them as contributions to a larger discussion on how to address collective challenges.
One of the simplest yet most powerful ways to embrace ideological differences while also promoting unity is by voting. Every voice matters, and voting allows each voice to be heard.
In fact, all Americans have a duty to exercise their right to vote. This shared responsibility to contribute to the democratic process is another thing that brings Americans together. Unity in the context of elections
does not mean the absence of disagreement or debate; rather, it encourages it in the form of open-minded dialogue. If different groups are dedicated to having meaningful political conversations, individuals might become more motivated to take their views to the polls, thus increasing voter turnout.
Achieving unity is not without its challenges. The current political climate sometimes seems to deepen divides rather than bridge them. Candidates often resort to negative campaigning, exploiting Americans’ fears about the government and party leaders. Attacks on candidates’ characters have gotten increasingly common, and fear-mongering tends to take precedence over actually strengthening the country.
However, the very existence of these tactics is perhaps what makes it even more crucial that Americans reject them.
The power of the people lies in the ability to come together. Engage with one another respectfully, vote Nov. 5 and prioritize unity over division.
Editorials represent the majority opinion of The Post’s executive editors: Editor-in-Chief Alyssa Cruz, Managing Editor Madalyn Blair and Equity Director McKenna Christy. Post editorials are independent of the publication’s news coverage. The Post can be reached via editor@thepostathens.com.
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JACKSON PENNINGTON | FOR THE POST
Vote by Tuesday, November 5th to protect your