In the wake of the announcement that former Bush strategist Karl Rove will be the Social Planning and Events Committee spring speaker, students have shown unified interest in a divisive figure.
Mr. Rove has been famous - or infamous, depending on a person's point of view - for injecting partisan politics, often to drive a wedge between his opponents. But that should not be a deterrent from attending the lecture, said College Republicans president and College sophomore Zac Byer.
Byer added that he sees the invitation as a unique opportunity that will appeal to students on both ends of the political spectrum, allowing them to put aside their differences for a few hours in order to gain insight from a very influential figure.
"This provides an opportunity to broaden our perspective because you're only in college for four years," he said.
Democrats, too, are willing to listen to what Rove has to say.
"I find him to be a fascinating person. It's great to hear different opinions, and especially the opinion I find very hard to understand," said College freshman Ariel Fisher.
"I disagree with a lot of his politics, but this is a great opportunity to have someone so influential speak," he added.
But despite his influence, some Democrats are questioning Rove's relevance in today's political discourse.
Penn Democrats president and Wharton junior Clayton Robinson said he believes that SPEC could have used its substantially deep pockets to bring in a presidential candidate.
Still, it seems Penn liberals and conservatives have generally reached a consensus because of the educational value that Rove's address provides.
"Whether you agree or disagree, people have the opportunity to learn about the past eight years that our country has been through," said Abby Huntsman, chairwoman of College Republicans.
