Candidate's beliefs don't faze students

It's a welcome sight for many students -- for the first time in history a Jew is occupying a spot on a major party ticket. Democratic vice presidential candidate Sen. Joseph Lieberman of Connecticut has received criticism for his many public references to his religion: He describes himself as an observant Jew and freely mentions his faith during appearances. Some have expressed concern, for instance, that he may have possible biases toward Israel. However, many Penn students feel that his religion, if anything, will have a positive effect on American politics. "It's about time that someone else with different values is helping head a campaign," Nursing freshman Amelia Lo said. College sophomore Susan Oh, a self-described religious Christian, said she believes Lieberman brings a unique perspective to the Democratic party. "I think [Lieberman's candidacy] is a better turn back to becoming more conservative," Oh said. And regardless of people's religious persuasions, Lieberman's presence may bode well for all minorities wishing to break into politics. John F. Kennedy, elected president in 1960, was the first -- and only -- Catholic to serve as president. University Chaplain William Gipson feels that, for those who are religious, Lieberman provides an example of a non-Protestant minority succeeding. "Perhaps for some other groups, this may be the open door," Gipson said. Penn students are on the whole encouraged by the diversity Lieberman brings to American politics. And while Lieberman is the first Jewish vice presidential candidate, few Penn students think his religion will hinder his policies, although they recognize the impact his religion may have on his views. "He seems to derive a lot of his legislation based on his theology," said Dan Rosner, co-chair of the Orthodox Community at Penn, a group of observant Jews on campus. "But I don't think it will affect [the national political arena] that much," the Engineering junior added. "There's a natural concern that because he may be more pro-Israel, he may endanger the peace process," Muslim Student Association President and College senior Sinan Kutty said. "But that could be true for any candidate." College sophomore Juana Gatson agreed. "I don't feel that his religious beliefs are going to impact the way the country is run," she said. All in all, many said they recognized that Lieberman is helping Gore by being his running-mate and that Lieberman's talk about religion has not necessarily hurt Gore. "It was done more out of strategy," said College junior Stanley Chen, co-chair of Campus Crusade for Christ. Chen added though, that, "I don't think it makes it disingenuous."