Hopefuls face issues

Students will have the opportunity to hear the four presidential candidates speak in-depth on various issues Monday at 6 p.m. in Lee Hall.

The presidential debate offers information other than campaign rhetoric and also allows students to ask questions about the candidates and their platforms.

Electoral Commissioner Mike Lipford said that although students may ask candidates questions, there is a limit, which has not yet been set.

“It all depends on how many candidates there are,” he said.

Lipford encouraged students to attend the debate in order to be more informed about voting.

“They can get a lot of information they may not get on a regular day,” said Lipford, 21, a senior business administration student from Cleveland.

Lipford said presidential debates in the past have usually been well attended.

This year students say they are eager to attend as well.

James Thompson, 19, a freshman art student from Frederick, Md., said he plans to attend the debate and is looking forward to what the candidates have to say.

Thompson said that he would like to see certain characteristics in the winning candidates.

“I want someone who’s going to listen to the students and do something for the school,” he said.

“I’m holding them to their word. If you’re going to smile in somebody’s face, do it because you mean it. Otherwise it’s like false advertising.”

Zach James, 21, a junior electrical engineering student from Turnersville, N.J., said he is interested in the candidates’ platforms.

“I would like to see (a president) who can motivate others, is honest and has a good work ethic,” James said.

Like Thompson, James said he would like to see a president who can fulfill campaign promises.

“I want someone who will do what they say they’re going to do.”

Rahkia Nance can be reached at Petite8228@aol.com.