yOU’s budget and “9-9-9” policy should not be seen as an election innovation. It’s simply a spin on an evident lack of support. When REACH began to raise funds for their campaign they weren’t asking their candidates to cut $150 checks, they were given letters including their platform, and encouraged to ask family and friends for donations.
Much like yOU, the majority of their budget came in small donations of 10 or 15 dollars. The only difference is REACH had many, many more supporters.
It’s clear that yOU is facing a lack of support, whether it be in the form of money or dedication from its candidates. The first day of election season is usually a bustle of activity from both camps.
Come midnight April 17 REACH candidates came out to paint the graffiti wall on campus and hang banners around town. Throughout the day you could find these same dedicated individuals sporting REACH T-shirts and standing outside of Baker, ready and willing to meet future constituents and talk about the REACH platform. It should be noted that tabling at Baker University Center for organizations is a free service, yet no other candidates or tickets came out for the first day of election season.
yOU, along with independent candidates, has emphasized its use of online campaigning. These candidates are relying on social networking sites to reach out to students. REACH meets and exceeds their opponents in the realm of online campaigning.
REACH’s website, reach4ou.com, features their platform, a list of candidates with a personal bio, a list of upcoming REACH events, and a place for people to give input. With an accompanying Facebook group and Twitter account (@reach4ou), opponents will have a hard time competing. REACH is very accessible online, yet they don’t limit themselves to strictly online interactions.
It has become evident that REACH is the ticket that is most dedicated to Ohio University. REACH knows that online campaigning is essential, but meeting people and starting conversations is essential as well. They understand that reaching out to students on and off campus requires support, in the form of money and dedication from candidates.
REACH has the support they need to represent Ohio University. Vote REACH May 17.
Nicholas Southall is a sophomore studying integrated language arts.
