Rove Speaks At CR Event

Karl Rove, Senior Advisor and Deputy Chief of Staff under former President George W. Bush, told the College Republicans on Friday that this year's elections were a referendum from independent voters on current president Barack Obama's policies.

Rove spoke to the College Republicans at a private event held at the Jack Morton Auditorium about the results of Tuesday's midterm elections, and what they showed about the college-age demographic.

Rove explained the results of Tuesday’s elections by providing statistics about the voting electorate, by ideology, age, and issues. Rove claimed that in the 2008 elections, the turnout among young voters aged 18 to 24 years old was 12 percent, while this past Tuesday, turnout for the same demographic was 11 percent. He also stated that more individuals from the 18-to-24-year-old age demographic voted Republican on Tuesday than in 2008.

A VIP meet-and-greet reception with Rove was held before the event for members of the College Republicans who had campaigned for local Republican candidates and volunteered with College Republicans' events throughout the last few months.

In a question and answer session moderated by the College Republicans Vice Chairman Will Frey, Rove reminisced on his years as a College Republican. He said it was a memorable experience where he traveled the country, meeting future legislators such as Senator Jeff Sessions of Alabama. Rove campaigned throughout the South to become National Chairman of the College Republicans.

Rove promoted his book, Courage and Consequence, at the event by signing copies and often alluding to a few chapters during his speaking engagement.

College Republicans Elect Leadership

Monday night the College Republicans here at The George Washington University gathered at 1957 E Street to select their leadership for the 2010-2011 school year. Candidates gave two-minute speeches before answering a series of questions raised by members of the audience.

Jake Wolf, the winning candidate for chairman, the highest position in the organization, emphasized his experience, previously serving as treasurer for two years. He also was active in organizing trips and coordinating events. Wolf’s goals include reaching out to conservative students and increasing the number of speakers for the College Republicans.

His opponent, Cynthia Meyer, attempted to “set herself apart” from Wolf during her campaign. She stressed the importance of the array of contacts she possesses, while discussing her plans for various new programs, such as a military outreach program.

Will Frey, the winner in the vice chairman election, effectively second in command of the College Republicans, discussed transparency and reform. He emphasized making the group more accountable while simultaneously expanding the organization.

His opponent, Rob Noel, discussed his previous service and membership. His goals, he explained, were to reach out to the College Republican alumni, the Student Association, and the general student body. 

All candidates discussed, albeit briefly, their criticisms of the Obama administration and the Democratic controlled Congress, while highlighting their hopes for a conservative future.

Other winners included Kevin Dore as secretary, Brandon Neuman as treasurer, Chris Oman as political affairs Director, Eva Hanson as membership director, Kaitlyn Martin as publications director, and Sinead Casey as public relations director.