By Mary Fan
Arizona Daily Wildcat
March 4, 1998

ASUA campaigning in high gear

A day before their fate is sealed, ASUA candidates were stepping up voter-outreach efforts while trying not to tread so hard on students whose nerves are frayed from too many encounters with hopeful candidates.

"I think it's helpful, but when they're all standing in a row and you get them at the same time, it's kind of annoying," marketing junior Shelley Walbrecht said about the slew of candidates on campus walkways yesterday.

Executive vice presidential candidate Cisco Aguilar, an accounting and finance junior, said he was trying to sweeten weary voters' dispositions by offering Bazooka gum and a smile.

"They are overwhelmed with material, and it's frustrating when they're walking to class, but once they get the bubble gum, they're very receptive," he said. "And if you just smile, sometimes they'll laugh."

Candidates said they were increasing campigning time as the elections burn down to the wire. Today is the last day to vote, and polls close at 6 p.m.

"Every student is so busy, but especially these two days I want people to know how important it is for them to voice their opinion," said presidential candidate Tara Taylor, a political science and public management junior.

Increased efforts in the final hour are important to success, said Associated Students Sen. Justin Klump.

"The more visibility you have, the better the chances you have of getting elected," he said.

Occassional rebuffs are worth getting the word out, said Senate candidate Jon Fine, a political science junior.

"A few people are getting annoyed, but they're getting information they need," he said.

The efforts seem successful, as voter turnout yesterday seemed to be up from last week's primary elections, said Assistant Elections Commissioner Robert Sandoval.

Some students, however, said candidates are trying too hard.

"It's basically overkill," said psychology junior Robert McCure. "I think it's an inconvenience - I usually have to take what they're trying to hand me."

Still, pre-physiology freshman Matt Wichsner said he appreciated the efforts.

"I think the way they do it is helpful because there are so many candidates, and sometimes I don't know where they stand," he said.

Where to Vote

Students can vote today, with their ID cards, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at:

• Old Chemistry
• Harvill
• Student Recreation Center
• Park Student Union