2008 Woodie Awards
Jackrabbits to run for State House
Two recent graduates and one transfer student kick off campaigns for legislature.
Katrina Sargent
Issue date: 4/16/08 Section: News
"Now it's all about me," said Frerichs. He worked hard on other people's campaigns, but now it falls on him to motivate people to get involved. He said it is different having to be concerned with the next step of fundraising and getting information about the issues out to the public.
The three candidates also have Facebook groups in support of their campaigns.
"Facebook definitely brings a new dimension to the campaign," said Sam Nelson, a senior political science major and member of SA. Nelson said that even if the people joining the candidates' groups do not live in the correct district to vote for them, the fact that they know someone who is running for office may increase their interest in political activity in their home district.
The key to reaching voters in this day and age is to shift more toward Facebook, blogging, MySpace and YouTube, said Chris Daugaard, president of SA. "It is absolutely crucial nowadays."
Frerichs said Facebook is a valuable tool because of the way it can reach many people at great speeds.
"Over the course of a few days, 300-400 people joined," said Frerichs. His core base is at SDSU, but with more employers picking up Facebook.
Lape appreciates the support of friends and others received via Facebook even if they are unable to vote. He is using Facebook as a fundraising tool as well as a way to answer voter's questions.
The user generated content lets people learn about the candidates on a more personal level, said Daugaard.
Fargen plans to use his Facebook group for fundraising and getting organized for door-to-door canvassing, parades and other events. He also said it makes it easy for people to contact him.
The candidates suggested that students who are interested in government should jump in and get involved.
It is important to volunteer, get experience, get your name out, meet new people and listen to people's issues and concerns, said Fargen.
According to Lape, the political science department does not require an internship for graduation, but many students would enjoy participating in the state programs if the school could set it up within the major. "It is a great opportunity to get hands on experience that you wouldn't get in the classroom," said Lape. "You can make connections with people that you might work with or serve with in the future."
Frerichs suggests that students "always be visible, show up to events and activities to make connections." He also suggests that students meet as many people as they can while in college. Frerichs said students who don't take this chance to meet people are doing themselves a disservice.
"Anyone can volunteer for campaigns anywhere in the state," said Nelson.
The state has opportunities for press and IT internship opportunities in Pierre, and anyone can intern for the state Democrats and Republicans, said Nelson. "No matter what your field is, if you're interested in working for government, there are opportunities."
The election will be held this November. More information about the candidates can be found on their Facebook pages.
The three candidates also have Facebook groups in support of their campaigns.
"Facebook definitely brings a new dimension to the campaign," said Sam Nelson, a senior political science major and member of SA. Nelson said that even if the people joining the candidates' groups do not live in the correct district to vote for them, the fact that they know someone who is running for office may increase their interest in political activity in their home district.
The key to reaching voters in this day and age is to shift more toward Facebook, blogging, MySpace and YouTube, said Chris Daugaard, president of SA. "It is absolutely crucial nowadays."
Frerichs said Facebook is a valuable tool because of the way it can reach many people at great speeds.
"Over the course of a few days, 300-400 people joined," said Frerichs. His core base is at SDSU, but with more employers picking up Facebook.
Lape appreciates the support of friends and others received via Facebook even if they are unable to vote. He is using Facebook as a fundraising tool as well as a way to answer voter's questions.
The user generated content lets people learn about the candidates on a more personal level, said Daugaard.
Fargen plans to use his Facebook group for fundraising and getting organized for door-to-door canvassing, parades and other events. He also said it makes it easy for people to contact him.
The candidates suggested that students who are interested in government should jump in and get involved.
It is important to volunteer, get experience, get your name out, meet new people and listen to people's issues and concerns, said Fargen.
According to Lape, the political science department does not require an internship for graduation, but many students would enjoy participating in the state programs if the school could set it up within the major. "It is a great opportunity to get hands on experience that you wouldn't get in the classroom," said Lape. "You can make connections with people that you might work with or serve with in the future."
Frerichs suggests that students "always be visible, show up to events and activities to make connections." He also suggests that students meet as many people as they can while in college. Frerichs said students who don't take this chance to meet people are doing themselves a disservice.
"Anyone can volunteer for campaigns anywhere in the state," said Nelson.
The state has opportunities for press and IT internship opportunities in Pierre, and anyone can intern for the state Democrats and Republicans, said Nelson. "No matter what your field is, if you're interested in working for government, there are opportunities."
The election will be held this November. More information about the candidates can be found on their Facebook pages.
Viewing Comments 1 - 2 of 2
Fargen? You have got to be kidding?
posted 4/24/08 @ 4:08 PM CST
Any student who barely graduates from college (after 7 years!), can't get into lawschool, is a beer swilling mellonhead should NOT be elected to any public office
johnny
posted 10/14/08 @ 2:24 PM CST
i second that!
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