ASMSU representative Adam Raezler jumped the gun when speaking on behalf of MSU's undergraduate student government at the latest Association of Michigan Universities conference.

As a representative for ASMSU, he informed AMU that ASMSU was considering disassociation from the organization. AMU represents Michigan's 15 public universities and hosts conferences four times a year to vote on legislative issues concerning the state and higher education.

Student governments worked cooperatively on initiatives concerning reductions in state funding for institutions of higher education, but apparently Raezler is now concerned that a new AMU initiative will be harmful for MSU.

The bill involves a tiered process for funding Michigan's higher-education system. Raezler said AMU hoped to pass a bill that would take funding away from the university.

Even though Raezler has a right to voice his concerns, he also has a responsibility to discuss those concerns with ASMSU.Such miscommunication could only lead to problems on a larger scale for the organization. Student Assembly Chairperson Missy Kushlak was left in the dark about Raezler's intentions. She said she did not know Raezler would make such an announcement at the conference and she was unhappy with his initiative.

Student Assembly Representative Brain Dunn couldn't have said it better, when he said "We just need a better communication between assemblies."

A person should always stand up for what they believe in, but as an individual, not an organization.

In order to address organization concerns, one must always have permission. The aftermath of Raezler's action now has members of ASMSU, who do not wish to break ties with AMU, making motions to issue a letter of apology. It should not have come to this.

An abuse of power by a representative can have long-lasting effects. If, in fact, ASMSU decides to continue a relationship with AMU, it will no doubt be scarred by this event.