Logan Dobson for EVP: Why the Hell Not? - An Endorsement

Sen. Logan Dobson has been, perhaps, the most controversial SA senator over the past two years.  His blog, "Inside the SA," has revealed much of the inner-workings of the dysfunctional group, and he has gained the reputation as a strong anti-establishment force within it.  Dobson has promised that if elected EVP, he would continue to maintain the blog, thus enabling a standard of SA transparency not seen previously.

Current EVP Jason Lifton has repeatedly admitted that his knowledge of parliamentary procedure is lacking, even though it has shown to be a governing advantage. Dobson knows the rules, bylaws, and inner-workings of the SA Senate better than anyone currently serving in the organization. This would enable him to conduct Senate meetings efficiently and effectively, without being side-tracked by attempts to wade through procedural minutiae.

We also feel that Dobson would form a phenomenal team with Jason Lifton, our preferred presidential hopeful. In such a hypothetical setup, we would expect to find Lifton serving as the student body's chief advocate, with Dobson augmenting advocacy efforts by ensuring that the SA sticks to the critical issues impacting students.  Dobson's passionate opposition to the previously proposed SA constitution indicates a fundamental understanding that the SA fails to properly allocate its precious time and resources. It is our opinion that a Lifton-Dobson team would be extremely productive in many of its endeavors.

Yet, despite Dobson's positive qualities, he can often times be a little too loose and liberal with his words and body language.  Although this certainly makes SA Senate meetings more interesting and lively, we are concerned what would happen if he were to conduct himself in a similar manner during meetings with high-ranking GW administrators.

Although we found Dobson's WRGW debate claim about the impossibility of publishing full legislative voting records unavailing, we appreciated his sincere and scholarly opposition, as opposed to following in lock-step with his fellow candidates on the matter. Sometimes a seemingly realistic 'no," is better than a blind collective 'yes.' 

In terms of Dobson's opponents, we feel that although Rob Maxim is knowledgeable and well-spoken, his debate performances were fairly unconvincing in proving why he should be elected to the position.  Josh Goldstein's major emphasis is on effective advocacy, but during his time in the Senate, has failed to sponsor any bill that would directly promote the interests of the student body. Similarly, Jon Binetti has also failed to sponsor any important legislation, and we are concerned that he seldom, if at all, speaks up at meetings.

Some may view Dobson as an insane and insufferable obstructionist, but this assertion could not be further from the truth.  The reality is, Dobson wants to see the SA get back on track and focus on the things that actually matter to students. And his election as EVP would give him a prime platform to reform the broken organization.  None of his opponents express any comparable potential. 

So, when deliberating over whether or not you should cast a ballot for Logan Dobson, be sure to ask yourself: "Why the Hell not?"

Jason Lifton for SA President: Tested, Proven, Qualified to Lead - An Endorsement

Jason Lifton has served as SA Executive Vice President for nearly a year. And although he admits he hasn't always been the sharpest on parliamentary procedures of the SA Senate, he has certainly been a forceful advocate on behalf of the student body. Simply put, he grasps - and knows how to address - the major issues facing GW.

Lifton is extremely polished and articulate, and would continue to serve as an excellent liaison between the student body and University administrators. In fact, last Friday, GW officials announced they would double the number of Columbian College academic advisers, due in large part to Jason's forceful advocacy on the matter as EVP.

It is important to mention, however, that Lifton is still realistic about a handful of issues that other candidates (in a variety of SA races) have exploited for the sake of campaign strategy and political expediency. He understands the stringent limitations pertaining to J Street dining reform (mainly contractual and union matters), and recognizes the critical need to increase study hours and study locations, while continuing to push for enhanced campus safety and security.

In stark contrast to Xochitl Sanchez,  Jason will be able to hit the ground running on these policy matters from day one, ever more facilitated by his firmly established working relationships with university administrators.  Although Sanchez is an eloquent speaker, highly likable, "take-no-prisoners" tough, and knowledgeable about an admirable cross-section of GW life and bureaucracy, Lifton is a step ahead, having demonstrated that he can also put these qualities into action.

Furthermore, Lifton has recognized - and taken responsibility for - the shortfalls of the Bindelglass administration, namely in the realm of communication.  He emphasizes the importance of keeping close tabs on vice presidents within the executive cabinet, the utter lack of which contributed to disorder and inaction this past year, as it has in previous years. 

For the reasons above, the staff of WRGW News feels confident that Executive Vice President Jason Lifton will make an outstanding SA president come fall, and we strongly endorse his candidacy.

SA Senate Endorsements

WRGW News is proud to announce our endorsements of the following SA Senate candidates:

Senate At Large:
Charlie Rybak

Columbian College
Ted Costigan
Kim Wollner
Dylan Pyne
Russell Dinolfo
Madiha Malik

Elliot School
John Bennett
Bryan Pratt
Andrew Jackson Detsch V