As someone who grew up surrounded by conservatism, WashU is the most liberal institution I have stepped foot in. I am sure that anyone who grew up in a conservative environment would be inclined to agree.

When Kehoe, Hanaway, or any Missouri political leader comes to campus next, we, Missouri’s future, have to show them that we vehemently disagree with the democratic backsliding that these lawmakers are either spearheading or complicit in.

I agree with Ciorba that nobody should be blaming or scapegoating marginalized communities for the outcome of the 2024 election; that’s shameful. However, let’s not start playing the victim or making excuses, either.

Do we as Americans really want to see a nation where everyone from all points on the political spectrum can come together and join hands, or do we just want our political enemies not to attack us? It seems to me that it’s the latter.

As President of the College Democrats, I’ve found that a few students on campus and in College Democrats are committed to engaging with the political process and doing the work of canvassing, door-knocking, or anything needed to win an election. However, increasingly over the past four years, I’ve observed a tendency of left-leaning students to see themselves as unimportant or unheard and to disengage from the electoral process. 

Roan does not need to endorse a candidate. But if her goal is for voters to “think critically” about the election, she must equip the young people who listen to her with some basic political realities. Blue states protect queer and trans rights; red states do not.

If you’re a Democrat, like I am, you might wonder, what’s the point of voting here, dropping a speck of blue into a sea of red? If this is a factor you find yourself considering, do not let a sense of powerlessness deter you from voting in Missouri, for there are key issues where your vote really can influence change.

The Washington University College Democrats and WashU College Republicans (WUCR) debated abortion, gun violence, climate change, the Israel-Hamas war, and the Russia-Ukraine war in their semesterly Campus Crossfire in Tisch Commons, April 24. 

Voting this November is crucial. Biden might not be the best, but he is so much better than Trump.

Pete Souza’s voice trembled as he looked at one of the last pictures he ever took of Barack Obama.