Collegiate Times

Image: 2012-09-10 21:51:11

Matthew Hurt, president of College Republicans, agrees that students need to perk up and start paying attention.

“When you're in college its very easy to get caught up in your social life and to think that this election is not going to effect you,” Hurt said. “But every presidency is going to affect you, no matter how long the president is in office.”

With students back in school, the volunteer numbers at offices have increased, and campaign goals are being met.

“All summer long, the goals set by the Republican National Committee were not met. But now that schools back in session, and the students are coming back, we have met every goal with their help,” Hurt said.

The series of Romney's Victory Offices, that Blacksburg's is one of, are unique to particular swing states. The RNC set them up to give the campaign a boost in states where votes would be particularly close. 

When President Obama was elected in 2008, it was the first time Virginia voted democratic in a presidential election since 1964, when Lyndon B. Johnson was elected. Today, Virginia's governor is Republican, the state House of Delegates is controlled by Republicans and the state Senate is split 50/50.

“People are more excited to get involved and be a part of the swing state. People in Virginia have to vote. They need to know they’re really making a difference. Being a young American in Virginia is a huge part of the election and the campaign,” said Portia Isaac, a sophomore mechanical engineering major and an outreach captain for the Obama campaign.

From calling voters, to canvassing doors, the campaign offices ensure students that any type of volunteer effort is important, and there is something for everyone.

“Most people that want to be involved in the campaign know they want to help, (they) just don’t know how,” Isaac aid.

Important to both parties, is registering to vote locally. Anyone who lives the majority of time in Blacksburg, like many students do, can register to vote here or in their home towns.  With 56 days until the election, both Young Democrats and College Republicans are focused on getting students registered to vote.

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A version of this article appeared in the Sep 11 issue of the Collegiate Times.