Are class elections fair or just a popularity contest? After the Executive Council and Student Council elections last week at Leesville Road High School, that’s the question everyone is asking.
Do class elections have a diverse range of candidates that represent different demographics and groups around school? Is the student body informed and enthusiastic voters? And do those who win their elections bring about new ideas and real change? Survey says no.
The first problem we see is that very few students actually vote in class elections.
“I mean I know what student council is, and I know a couple people in it but I didn’t vote…it’s not important to me and all the posts on instagram are kinda annoying,” said Addison Brockman, freshman.
Many students at Leesville think class elections are unfair or indifferent because the school government doesn’t impact them.
“Nobody cares…it doesn’t matter who wins because I don’t see an impact,” said Quinn Lyde, junior.
Students might be more inclined to vote if they realized class council was responsible for planning events like freshman orientation, homecoming, spirit week and prom.
“It all comes down to how many friends you have. And the few people who genuinely care and would do a good job never win,” said Saran Vyke, senior.
Even candidates admit that popularity is an undeniable determining factor in winning an election.
“I was looking for a leadership position and exec is really fun. I am in other clubs like band, and I know people from other grades which I think helped me win,” said Elise Cha, sophomore.
“I wouldn’t necessarily call it a popularity contest but I think it’s important that people recognize your name on the ballot,” said Thomas Hamilton, sophomore.
“I’ve been in exec since I started highschool. I was treasurer this year, and it’s one of my favorite clubs…I was running for exec vice president against 6 other people most of whom were more popular than me… I dmed like 35 people on instagram to repost and vote for me. I handed out like 100 stickers at lunch which definitely helped me win,” said Tori Parson, junior.
But it looks like there is still hope. Many candidates express a genuine interest and commitment in class council and have overcome the popularity contest by campaigning and being part of other clubs.
