As the election nears, much of the center-right across academia will be voting for President Bush. However, it is worth noting that the Libertarian Party candidate, Michael Badnarik, will also be recieving an usually strong percentage of college votes. This is worth analysis. Is it because the college years are conducive to the libertarian viewpoint? Or is this a more, respectful, even intelligent protest vote to President Bush?

I would have to say that while the Libertarian viewpoint is indeed valid, that at this time in our nation's history, with us facing a war on terrorism that we need stability in the presidency and that Bush needs to be re-elected because between the two candidates who will get the majority of the vote tomorrow, he is the best one. As far as why college students might tend to vote libertarian, this may be due to their belief in a very small government which will allow them to do more things that they may otherwise not be able to do. I personally feel that it is an issue of maturity as young people (some may fit this, not a generalization) may look down upon authority whereas when they are a little older, they want a stronger authority to protect their families and life.

Daniel Sauerwein
ISI Campus Rep.