Focus on the issues

Less than a week remains before IU Student Association election day, and the banners are flying, the t-shirts are flashing and finally, the issues are appearing. \nWe have to admit we were worried -- when candidates discuss nothing but alcohol and the politics of partying, it reminds us more of a sixth-grade election than a college campaign. Think of Johnny Popular from elementary school, standing on a chair and shouting, "More pizza! Longer recess!" Such promises sounded great to cheering classmates, but then again, we were under the impression that the power of student council somehow transcended all limits. \n Unfortunately for some IUSA tickets, we're a little wiser now. Wet campus whimsies and drinking discussions might appeal to the emotional few who are naïve enough to think that IUSA can even control such a thing, but they insult those who are interested in more serious issues and alienate those who don't even drink. We hope that next week's electees will focus on issues affecting all students, such as tuition, textbooks and transportation -- and we hope they'll set goals that they are capable of achieving. \nIn their discussions of the parking situation in Tuesday's Indiana Daily Student, the tickets accomplished at least one of these points. IU's transportation situation is certainly an issue that affects and frustrates many and one we'd like to see IUSA work toward resolving. However, according to the article, the tickets didn't even contact parking operations when they were devising their proposals. How can you promise a solution before you're even involved in the process? You might as well guarantee a free car with those extra spaces.\nWe want to hear the specifics. We want to know not only the "whats," but the "hows." How are you going to influence the people who make decisions that affect tuition? How are you going to instate a program that can relieve students textbook cost while still covering rising copyright costs? \nThe truth is, IUSA does have power. IUSA representatives have sway with the trustees, authority among administrators and the respect of the students. A good ticket will use this influence to make plans that support students and will challenge limits without overstepping bounds. It will take risks, but it will focus on attainable goals. \nVoters: we need to let the candidates know we're holding them to a standard. Let them know you're interested and the election doesn't only depend on what Greek house they win. Let them know you're going to hold them accountable for what does and doesn't get done this year. If we're going to have a serious election, we have to show it will take more than gimmicks and root beer bongs to win our votes.