Despite Limited Audience, Student Forum Proves Very Worthwhile

The relatively few students that watched the Student Forum on Presidential Candidates this Wednesday were treated to a spirited representation of Sens. McCain and Obama. 

The event was held in Devlin 008, a venue that turned out too large for its audience. Only a small fraction of seats were occupied, with a few spectators noting a lack of advertising for the event as a possible reason for the low turnout. 

Nevertheless, the show did go on. Representing Sen. McCain were John Hynes and Alex Guittard, with Joshua Darr and AID of BC President Michael Madormo representing Sen. Obama.

Among topics discussed in the forum were the economy, foreign policy, leadership ability, temperament, and fiscal policy. All four representatives appeared very well-versed in the stances of their respective candidate, with heavy arsenals of statistics to back up general policy points. 

Discussion in the forum closely mirrored discussion in the media and in the actual Presidential Debates this election year. The McCain side stressed less government intervention, calling tax increases "irresponsible" in tough financial times like these, while Obama's representatives pointed out that the deregulation that McCain (along with Pres. Bush) has stood for for so long obviously is not working for the economy. Also, there was a lot of debate about Iraq. Hynes and Guittard argued that we should leave Iraq in victory, not defeat, and Darr and Madormo pointed out the economic advantages of pulling out of the costly war as soon as responsibly possible. 

One topic that was especially interesting was that regarding the personalities of the two candidates. Which senator has the temperament and background best suited for the presidency? John McCain is the more "fire-bellied" of the two, with an outstanding record of military service. On the other hand, Barack Obama has, as Darr put it, "icewater running through his veins," and boasts an outstanding scholastic background. The Republican side argued that McCain has real world experience and can make a quick decision when necessary. Obama's BC representatives noted that their candidate is more worthy of trust in regards to important, complex situations that require critical analysis. Hynes and Guittard were quick to note that "scholarly" Presidents such as Jimmy Carter were not very effective in office. For their part, Darr and Madormo argued that our current President is proof enough that we do not want Joe Six-Pack running the country. 

All in all, those that attended the Student Forum were stimulated to further consider their all-important votes in only thirteen (thirteen!) days. Election Day will be here before we know it; take advantage of the few opportunities left to evaluate these very different candidates.