COMMENTARY

Poor journalism marred election

It is with a heavy heart that we journalists see this presidential race end. What a two years it has been! Rev. Jeremiah Wright, Bill Ayers, the “inevitable” candidate and her spectacular demise, Muslims, mavericks, terrorists and — near the very end — a balding plumber named Joe. It has been a dizzying ride for all involved, but no more so than for the fourth estate — we purveyors of information who clearly delighted in the twists and turns this campaign yielded.

COMMENTARY

Voting not worth hassle if candidates not up to par

Even though Matt Damon may not approve, I chose not to vote on Tuesday. “Rock the vote!” all my friends kept telling me. It doesn’t matter who you vote for, as long as you vote for someone. The problem is that there wasn’t a candidate for whom I felt comfortable voting, even after months of research.

COMMENTARY

Racy TV shows shouldn't equal teen pregnancy

One general rule has been true of popular culture and entertainment since the early 20th century: Sex sells, and it sells pretty well regardless of whom you’re selling it to. A new study by RAND, a nonprofit research organization, has found a correlation between racy TV programming and risky sexual behavior by teenagers. Although this information may not exactly be surprising, it is disturbing, nonetheless.

COMMENTARY

Ranking system, Halloween costumes degrade women

In a letter recently published in The State News, Ranking system of girls at parties degrading, kills fun (SN 11/04), Robin Moore is quick to point out the degrading nature of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity without also noting her own wrongdoing.

COMMENTARY

Redistribution, graduated tax system is an American tenet too, not just a socialist idea

In Ian Brown’s editorial cartoon and Judy Whipple’s letter to the editor (Redistribution not a good policy for class grades, U.S. economy, SN 10/28), they compare Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama’s tax policy to a classroom where all students with 4.0s would all receive 3.0s, so students with 1.0s can get 2.0s.

COMMENTARY

Voters might ignore implications of Obama's tax plans because of his commanding stage presence

In the recent editorial endorsing Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama (Obama right candidate to lead country in 2009, SN 10/29), the editors have fallen victim to the same empty rhetoric that has captured the nation.

COMMENTARY

MSU students can make living in E.L. more enjoyable by registering to vote locally

This is my fifth year at MSU. I will be graduating this spring and I will definitely miss MSU. I will not, however, miss East Lansing. I cannot wait to leave this city.

COMMENTARY

Politics not part of daily lives of all American voters

We didn’t talk politics at last Friday’s football game. One mother told me about her worry over her son’s imminent surgery for a nagging shoulder injury that ended his season two games early.

COMMENTARY

Students have no excuse not to get out and vote

Although it definitely is important to vote, we really don’t feel like rehashing exactly the same lines for the nth time. So instead, we’ll provide you a list of the lesser-known reasons why you should take a few minutes out of your day and make your voice heard. You should vote because …

COMMENTARY

Set race, gender issues aside when casting your vote

It’s been a long and brutal 11 months in the realm of politics, but tonight the battle ends and tomorrow every news publication and news program will be plastered with the faces of our new executive branch. Regardless of who will be named the winner, history will be made as we’ll either have the first black president or the first female vice president of the United States.

COMMENTARY

Alexander worthy of vote, has students' best interest in mind

Voters in the 8th Congressional District should elect Bob Alexander, who is running as a Democrat against Republican incumbent Mike Rogers.

COMMENTARY

CATA millage, other proposals might raise cost of living in E.L.

College students from Ingham, Clinton and Eaton counties should vote “no” on the 19 local proposals in the tri-county area for new taxes, increased taxes and renewals. If your parents help fund your education, they will have less money to give you if the millages pass today.

COMMENTARY

Consider motive behind vote, make an informed decision

Before you cast your vote today, think of the reasons why you’re voting the way you are. Is it because you’re well-informed of all the issues? Maybe it’s because you’re a stern Democrat or Republican? Or for many people in the United States, maybe it’s because they’re taking on the “everyone else is” attitude?

COMMENTARY

Obama infomercial provides another look at candidate

In reaction to Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama’s infomercial last Wednesday, I am compelled to point out that there was a positive change, being that there seemed to be no attacks or mention of the Republican Party or John McCain. In most campaigns, it seems the most common issues discussed are those the politician has with the other. To hear a candidate’s concerns and priorities without being followed almost immediately with a negative comparison to their competition has been extremely scarce since I have started following politics.

COMMENTARY

Romney, Bouchard best for board of trustees

On Tuesday’s ballot, one race will have the greatest impact on MSU students’ lives — but it’s likely that many have heard little to nothing about it.

COMMENTARY

Attacks by candidates solve nothing, divide Americans

As the election dwindles down to its final days, the candidates are thrashing about in their final attempt to discredit their counterpart. The attack ads, negative comments and the meager endeavors to disqualify their opponent to win a seat in the White House are visible in just about every newspaper, commercial, Web site or wherever else you look.

COMMENTARY

Lambert envisions brighter future for Mich.

Every once in a while a candidate comes along who bucks the trend and bears none of the falseness that so often characterizes politicians. Someone to whom people listen when they speak and know they honestly believe what they are saying.

COMMENTARY

Halloween not just an excuse to roam streets scantily-clad

I am writing today on behalf of the naughty schoolgirl, the sexy nurse, and the Playboy bunny. I am writing today because I am sick of the inevitable “slutty costume” conversation that is as closely tied to Halloween at MSU as the weeklong drinking spree.

COMMENTARY

Tuition increase article fails to outline costs to all students

I was disappointed that the article General fund covers tuition increase (SN 10/27) did not mention how the spring 2009 tuition increase will affect out-of-state students.

COMMENTARY

Hatred of Muslims sign of ignorance

I cannot recall the last time I was this excited to take part in this year’s Halloween festivities. The annual promise of trading in everyday life for a deep-seated fantasy remains a recurring hit — something every reader will be reminded of as they maneuver through the endless throngs of sexy genies and guys donning replica Joker masks.