The long and grueling campaigns that began in earnest long ago are finally drawing to a close. This has been the longest political season and the most intense in recent memory -- easily the most divisive and polarizing election this country has ever experienced. Campaigns like Rock the Vote have continually stressed the impact that this campaign will have on issues that matter to college students. We wish to echo this sentiment. Continue to stay informed on the latest news. More importantly, make sure to vote on Tuesday.
The importance of voting in this election cannot be overstated. As such, it is imperative to know where your polling place is prior to Tuesday. Unlike in previous election years, students cannot simply go to David Rittenhouse Laboratory to vote. Since students will now vote at new polling locations depending on their campus residence, where to go on Election Day may be confusing to some students. Web sites like www.hallwatch.org will tell you where to vote, as will Tuesday's edition of The Daily Pennsylvanian.
Registered undecided voters should take some time this weekend to become more familiar with the candidates' positions. As the youth vote is expected to have a larger impact on this election than in previous years, those who already fully intend to vote would do well to make sure that their less politically motivated friends are also informed and prepared to vote.
While professors are not required to make special accommodations for Election Day, some have made assignment or attendance concessions. We applaud their efforts in promoting voting awareness. We urge other professors to make similar efforts in relaxing class policies for this election, billed by many as the most important of the century.
In the days leading up to the election, it is also important to maintain positive political discourse on campus. Often, in the last days of a close election, unsubstantiated rumors and ideological bickering will trump mature debate on policy. While a certain amount of this is unavoidable, try not to let it dominate your personal discussions and interactions.
Clarify your understanding of the candidates' positions. Motivate your friends. Know your polling place, and if you do nothing else Tuesday, just get out and vote.
