5/2/13
CAMPAIGN: ASB’s executive presidential elections have been thrown into a run-off.
By Hannah Lerstad, Staff Writer
The top two candidates for presidential office for the 2013-2014 school year are facing off in another election.
The normal presidential executive office election was between Paige Vaughan (11), Kendall Morris (11) and Jacqueline Bywater (11). Vaughan was eliminated after the votes were counted. However, under Article 4 Section 2(C) of the Associated Student Body (ASB) Constitution, if there is an election between three or more candidates and the top candidate does not have more than a six percent majority of votes, the elections must be thrown into a run-off. Morris claimed a majority of votes in the election, but since he did not have a six percent lead, he and Bywater must now go head-to-head in another election.
ASB has faced some criticism for enforcing the rule. However, the rule has also been used for freshman President and President of Activities earlier in the year.
“The administration has striven to make it as equitable and painless as possible. The candidates have used ASB materials and time to campaign, and there was no excessive economic stress placed on them. That’s why we allowed both candidates to deliver their speeches over the intercom,” ASB director Vanessa Douty said.
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The candidates have different opinions of the run-off.
“Honestly, I never really agreed with it in the first place, but what happens happens. If the administration decides it’s ok then I’m ok with whatever comes up,” Morris said.
“I’m happy to have a second chance. If I win I’ll work super hard for everyone,” Bywater said.
The voting will be open from Tuesday, 30 April through Thursday, 2 May at lunch. The winner will be announced on Friday.
Photo by Evan Mueller