Vying for the youth vote
By: ZACH FOX - Staff Writer
Student activists hope exciting candidates lure more of their peers to the polls | ∞
Student Stephanie Dezee of Oceanside signs up students to support Democratic candidates at Cal State San Marcos' Forum Plaza on Tuesday. Her efforts were part of a big countrywide and countywide push to court young voters.
WALDO NILO Staff Photographer
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As presidential candidates court the growing number of young voters, Stephanie Dezee just wants to get more of her peers to care.
Campus activists like Cal State San Marcos' Dezee say college students are split between the traditionally apathetic and the recently passionate ---- sparked by a few nontraditional candidates and an unpopular war.
"If you ask a general student, they couldn't tell you the date of when to go vote in the primary," said Dezee, a 23-year-old Oceanside resident who volunteers for the Democratic Party. "But from what I've noticed, there is more enthusiasm and interest in this campaign."
Campaigns for candidates of every political stripe are targeting the historically unreliable 18- to 24-year-old voting bloc, though whether that effort will pay off won't be known for some time. That hasn't stopped the campaigns from turning to the Internet with hopes of nabbing those votes.
Social networking sites such as MySpace and Facebook have huge traction on college campuses, boasting millions of users.
Facebook, especially, has the potential to allow popular candidates to snowball.
It has a "news feed" function that informs users of their friends' actions, including posting support for a particular presidential candidate.
Campaigns have recognized the power of such sites and look to take advantage.
"I barely know any students that don't have Facebook," said Brian Pepin, a 2007 San Diego State graduate and volunteer for Mitt Romney's campaign. "It's really easy to post up on there, 'I'm a Mitt Romney supporter,' and have all your friends see it."
Practically all of the presidential campaigns have created profiles on the site, and Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., has dominated the Facebook race.
As of Friday, Obama boasted 323,700 supporters on Facebook, almost four times Hillary Clinton's second-best total. Ron Paul leads all Republicans with 80,562. Facebook users add themselves as supporters to the candidates' profile with the click of a mouse, allowing the campaigns to send messages and track likely voters.
Over 24 hours last week, Obama's Facebook profile gained more than 12,000 supporters.
On UC San Diego's most congested pedestrian walkway on Thursday afternoon, Obama supporters significantly outnumbered those of other campaigns.
Six or seven volunteers for Obama competed for the attention of passers-by against a sole supporter of Mike Huckabee and two Hillary Clinton volunteers.
In this more traditional approach to campaigning, the volunteers tried to interest fellow students in their candidates' political views as well as their stickers and other paraphernalia.
Obama volunteers at the La Jolla campus had students sign pledge cards, which added their names and contact information to a database that volunteers said will remind them to vote. "Blitzing," as they called it, in front of a row of vendors shilling everything from knockoff designer sunglasses to kettle corn, the Obama supporters said his message of change and infectious charisma are the means of attraction for college students.
"I've never had this much confidence in a candidate. I've never been this excited about a candidate, and I've been involved in politics for a long time," said Shereen Nourollahi, a 20-year-old biology major from Escondido. "I've been amazed about the positive feedback from people. When we ask, 'Do you support Barack Obama?' people cheer and holler."
Nourollahi transferred to UCSD from Palomar College and said the student body at the larger college is much more politically active than at Palomar, which she called a commuter college where more students live at home and avoid becoming involved with campus life.
On campus or online, volunteers with other campaigns weren't close to conceding the younger vote to Obama.
"The students I've met believe that Mitt Romney is the best man to run this country," Pepin said. "They understand how important it is to have someone with his beliefs."
The lone Huckabee volunteer on campus said the former Arkansas governor is the most attractive Republican candidate for young voters, something he has seen in campaigning.
"I think the main thing is (Huckabee's stance on) the Fair Tax," said Alec Weisman, a UCSD freshman studying ecology. "Most of us are sick of being taxed over and over. Just getting taxed on your income and then getting hit with the corporate tax. And with him, it's more than talk; he's had action as a governor."
A volunteer with Clinton's campaign said she thought a lot of students lean toward the former first lady's experience over Obama's promise of change.
"I think young people are extremely attracted to her message. I think it's a misconception that (Obama is) the candidate for young people," said Yoyo Chan, a 19-year-old international studies major at UCSD. "I feel almost like he's the trendy candidate and some people are voting for him just because their friends are."
But Dezee, at Cal State San Marcos, said her support for Clinton was secondary to her main goal in campaigning on campus: simply encouraging students to vote.
John Baden, campaigning for Obama at Cal state San Marcos, agreed. He graduated last year with a degree in history but remains involved in an effort to increase political awareness.
"We have to make the whole process fun for people and get away from the negativity," Baden said. "When it turns into two people bickering, young people, especially, tune out."
The San Diego County Democratic Party has also made a push this year to get college students to vote, regardless of political affiliation.
In campaign drives at San Diego State University and UCSD, the Democrats registered more than 1,500 people, mostly students, said Jess Durfee, chairman of the county organization.
The Republican Party of San Diego County did not have any registration drives on college campuses, instead focusing its efforts on districts, said Jonathan Buettner, chief operating officer of the organization.
But whether the young voters the parties are vying for will actually play a major role in the primary remains to be seen.
Many analysts thought younger voters would play a major role in the 2004 presidential election. But though there was a roughly 10 percent increase in youth participation that year, their impact was diluted because overall voting turnout also surged, said Richard Brake, director of the New York-based Intercollegiate Studies Institute's Lehrman American Studies Center.
"I think it's always a mistake, until it's proven wrong, to spend more money courting the youth vote than spending money courting the elderly vote," Brake said. "Just because the elderly are more likely going to vote."
If Obama secures the nomination, Brake said, he expects younger voters to flood the polls in November.
"College kids gravitated to (John) Kennedy, and that was a generational election," he said. "You get those every once in a while, and if Obama is the candidate, this is setting up to be one of those years."
Contact staff writer Zach Fox at (760) 740-5412 or zfox@nctimes.com.
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It's the "Democrat" party wrote on Feb 3, 2008 12:05 AM:And younger voters have, typically been
1: Horrendously unreliable.
2: Seriously Naive.
Relying on young voters is like relying on the illiterate and easily confused, which is what cost Al Gore the 2000 election, thanks to them voting for Pat Buchanan.
P.S. The 1960 election was stolen, courtesy of the dead voting in Chicago, not won by some horde of idealistic youngsters.
Tuck wrote on Feb 3, 2008 7:00 AM:If voting actually changed things, it would be illegal.
Noble, but.. wrote on Feb 3, 2008 9:36 AM:I want to know why my Colors are being used as clothing and being allowed to touch the ground.
A picture tells everything... wrote on Feb 3, 2008 9:53 AM:This picture of the disrespect for the flag of our nation speaks volumes for how this generation has no idea what they're voting for nor for whom? Our flag is not a blanket to be worn in the rain! This is a standard that many men have died for a belief in something to be protected. These politicians are relying on the lack of love for a nation that stands to defend it's people. These democrats say "We'll pull the troops out...but what will stop the hordes from reaching our shores then? These young ARE NOT the future!!! We stand and fight them enemy now!!! They're more of us older loyal americans than there ever will be them!!! And most of all we respect even in the smallest way the symbol that represents this the greatest nation of all.
No, it's the "Democratic" Party. wrote on Feb 3, 2008 10:41 AM:This "Democrat" Party nonsense is a right-wing attempt to change the correct usage. Wouldn't want anyone to think Republicans are less democratic than anyone else. (Might help if they stopped trampling our Constitution and civil rights.)
I think it's great that young people of all political persuasions are getting involved in the process.
Go Obama!!!
Period wrote on Feb 3, 2008 10:55 AM:The Democratic party was the pro-slave party. I like history!!!
Matthew wrote on Feb 3, 2008 10:59 AM:To "Noble, but": YOUR colors? Hahaha.
Skip wrote on Feb 3, 2008 12:16 PM:That girl in the accompanying picture looks like she is wearing a real flag. That is so disrespectful. I have said it many times before, " What are they teaching those kids at Cal State San Marcos?" And on the California taxpayers dime.
The U.S. Flag Code wrote on Feb 3, 2008 12:21 PM:The U.S. Flag Code, section 4-(d) states: "The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery...." While it's not misquided to feel its wearing as a mark of patriotism, others may feel differently--just as you do about Madonna's use of it. If you want to display the flag on a personal level, there are options available for patches and pins which are appropriate, respectful and patriotic.
The Domocratic Party and Hilliary wrote on Feb 3, 2008 12:25 PM:Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton said Sunday she might be willing to have workers' wages garnisheed if they refuse to buy health insurance to achieve coverage for all Americans. http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2008/02/03/ap/headlines/d8uj05eo0.txt
NATIONAL SOCIALISM IS A STRONG STATEMENT
BUT THIS SOUNDS LIKE WHAT IT IS
Paul wrote on Feb 3, 2008 12:35 PM:Paul
[-] wrote on Feb 1, 2008 6:26 PM:
As a lifelong Democrat, I am dismayed with the remaining choices, and the way the news media fawns over these two lightweights, Obama and Mrs. Clinton. Where are the great Democrats? I cannot vote Republican, although must admit that McCain will be tempting if in fact he wins the nomination. It is inexplicable that our country cannot produce more men like JFK, the last great Democrat president.
to 'Period' wrote on Feb 3, 2008 12:40 PM:But it was also the party of civil rights. Which is why all the southern Democrats (Dixiecrats) switched and became Republicans, who were fighting civil rights. History is interesting, isn't it?
Karl wrote on Feb 3, 2008 1:04 PM:"Paul
[-] wrote on Feb 1, 2008 6:26 PM:" If McCain is the closest to your ideals why can't you vote for him?
ARE THERE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATING THE FLAG CODE ? wrote on Feb 3, 2008 1:08 PM:No. The Flag Code serves as a guide to be followed on a purely voluntary basis to insure proper respect for the flag. The Supreme Court has ruled that politically motivated violations of the Flag Code are protected by the First Amendment.
The Flag Code has no provision for enforcement. No fines, no penalties. There is nothing law enforcement can do when the Flag Code is broken.
IT IS NOT ILLEGAL BUT ................ wrote on Feb 3, 2008 1:11 PM:The Flag Code states that the flag should never be worn. (Section 8d): "The flag should never be used as wearing apparel."
OBAMA STOPS WEARING THE AMERICAN FLAG PIN wrote on Feb 3, 2008 1:14 PM:Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, (DEMOCRAT), said he will no longer wear an American flag lapel pin because it has become a substitute for “true patriotism” since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
The Flag wrote on Feb 3, 2008 1:18 PM:is a piece of cloth. It's a symbol, but it's not the actual country. Why not support the betterment of the country as a whole by supporting health care for all and caring about your fellow American rather than all the uproar about some cloth.
It wasn't the Democratic Party that ran this country into the ground, it was the Republic Party and the Republic presidential administration. It's time to set things right again. Another point, I should hope that people don't die for the flag..I would think that if they died for something it would be for the "country" not a piece of cloth. The folks that are so upset that this young woman is draping it over her body really have their priorities screwed up. You'd rather see cuts to needed programs and more money spent on death and destruction rather than see enthusiasm by young voters for the electoral process. It's their future at stake you know. They have a right to be involved and to make a difference. They are the ones that would have to pay with their lives if war continues. I bet if they were rallying around Republic candidates, it would be just fine, but since turnout is high for Democrats, of course "they don't know anything". Typical Republic way of thinking, lessen the importance of your opponent to make yourself feel superior..
Go Obama, Viva Obama
Doug wrote on Feb 3, 2008 1:19 PM:The front runners we have at the moment, with their outline of their presidential goals, it really boils down to who is going to sell out this country the fastest. Not one of the top four has a backbone to stand up for what's legal, giving drivers licenses to people who are here illegally is a slap in the face to the American people. When the next batch of invaders come are we going to cowar down to them as well, and give them whatever they want inspite of how much damage it does to this country. We are in a downward spiral with no relief in sight.
Keith wrote on Feb 3, 2008 1:23 PM:That is such a classic picture of a young democrat. Lets wrap the American flag around us like a blanket. Her parents clearly never tought her to respect the flag. I guess that explains why she is a democrat.
To : The Domocratic Party and Hilliary wrote on Feb 3, 2008 1:32 PM:There are some who would say that Mexico is in America.
To : The Flag wrote on Feb 3, 2008 2:01 PM:Just like the Picture, Your Comment says it all ...............
Go Obama, Viva Obama
RE: rather than all the uproar about some cloth. wrote on Feb 3, 2008 2:13 PM:Is this what being a Democrat means? Some cloth? I did not serve my country for 26 years and have see my friends die for "Some Cloth" MVet
Sandra wrote on Feb 3, 2008 2:29 PM:To : The Domocratic Party and Hilliary
[-] wrote on Feb 3, 2008 1:32 PM:
There are some who would say that Mexico is in America.
Well all their Citizens are anyways :(
Give me a break STOP THE NAU NOW !!!
And I don't care what you say the flag isn't just a piece of cloth it is more American than you !
U.S. Constitution wrote on Feb 3, 2008 3:17 PM:I am Voting for RON PAUL
Ingrid wrote on Feb 3, 2008 3:34 PM:This might have been a good story about student involvement in our present day government, but the accompanying photograph ruined it. I know there are a lot of people who feel the same way. I am just glad that the student pictured does not look Latino or then we would also have to put up with the "Race Card" being played. My daddy was in the military for over 20 years and don’t ever let him hear you call the United States Flag a piece of cloth.
Daren wrote on Feb 3, 2008 4:01 PM:For every voter who cares about stopping illegal immigration, the only two candidates worthy of your vote are Mitt Romney & Ron Paul. Everybody else is pro-amnesty to varying degrees and thus, anti-American!!
Proud Protest.... wrote on Feb 3, 2008 4:02 PM:I use the flag in all my political protests. I have a flag shirt and a pair of flag underwear. I will wear them anytime I choose as part of my free speech and none of you right winger neo-facists will stop me.
To wrote on & Sandra wrote on Feb 3, 2008 4:25 PM:Look, I see it this way.. A true Patriot pledges allegiance to their country NOT to a flag. I figured that out a long time ago, as a child in elementary school and I still believe it. No, a Liberal teacher did not teach me that. I just woke up and "got it" at a young age.
Wrote On.. thanks for serving. You made a choice to do so and it's appreciated. You served your country and if YOU wish to say you served the flag, then do so. I really don't care. It's a stupid argument. I'm just pointing out the fact that many of you all are up in arms about a flag being draped over someone. Shows she loves her country by getting involved in the process and outcome, which will affect her life for years to come. You all attempt to denigrate her and what she stands for. Based on the comments, it's because she is a Democrat. Besides, it's STILL a free country and from what others have posted, it's not a crime although some of you seem to want to make it one.
Sandra, calling me less American doesn't make a difference to me. I shalt come down to your lower level. I believe in my country and I know it can be great once again.... after those of us who care about and love our country and our fellow Americans, vote Sen. Obama in as president.
Oh yea btw, isn't the flag made in CHINA (no offense to the Chinese) these days by exploited and underpaid factory workers!? Again, priorities a skewed, but oh so "more American". Shows your ignorance, Sandra.
Pardon Me wrote on Feb 3, 2008 4:43 PM:my previous comment was addressed to 'RE: rather than all the uproar about some cloth' posted at 2:13 PM
.. I was reading and typing so fast I didn't realize I addressed you as "wrote on" doh! :)
ed wrote on Feb 3, 2008 6:08 PM:Yeah, that's the big issue here, how the girl wrapped the flag around her shoulders... shows the simpleton mentality of some of the bloggers here.
To A picture tells everything wrote on Feb 3, 2008 6:23 PM:You don't speak for me. I also feel that what the woman in the photo is doing with the flag is wrong. Oh and by the way, I am only ten years older than her. So don't go lecturing us about how valuable you are because of your age.
Politics wrote on Feb 3, 2008 6:48 PM:We need national socialism now. It will provide healthcare for all americans, solve the economic and immigration crisis, the drug problem, and the wanton crime that has enveloped this country. I am voting for Hillary because a vote for her is the first step towards national socialism and I encourage everyone that cares about what has become of this country to do the same. People are too naive to govern themselves, they need a national socialist government to do it for them. Hillary 08!!!!!!!!!!
John wrote on Feb 7, 2008 1:45 PM:Ok folks, the flag is not being burned or touching the ground. It is being displayed as a symbol of love for the country. What about all you people that have a flag sticker that gets dirty and ripped on a car. How about everyone that buys a flag sticker made in China? Give me a break. Everyone is allowed to display their pride in being American in their own way. This is simply a sign of affection for America.
John wrote on Feb 7, 2008 2:59 PM:So Rocky is traitor I guess since he has a flag draped over him.
...
And every real athlete that has won a gold medal and put a flag around them is unpatriotic.
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