The 2025-26 Associated Students of the University of Arizona election cycle has officially begun. 

On Feb. 5, students interested in running for ASUA positions were required to submit their campaign packets to be eligible for next year’s available seats. With the aftermath of the national elections and President Donald Trump’s January inauguration still fresh, it’s understandable that many of us are probably feeling fatigued by the constant political, election and government talk — myself included. 

However, if these past few months have taught me anything, it’s the importance of feeling heard, seen and safe in a space I occupy so often. Surprisingly, ASUA’s efforts to create such an environment have made me genuinely appreciate its role on campus.

Take the ASU events on Jan. 31, for example. College Republicans United set up a table urging students to report their peers to Immigration and Customs Enforcement, sparking widespread outrage. ASU’s Undergraduate Student Government issued a statement in response, acknowledging the anger, fear and harm caused by the event. Their message emphasized that ASU’s identity should be defined by who it includes, not who it excludes.

While USG-T’s delayed response did alleviate some tension, the damage had already been done. In contrast, the University of Arizona has not encountered such incidents involving student organizations — knock on wood — but has been vocal in its proactive stance to support students. 

Through official statements on social media, ASUA reassured students that the university is committed to maintaining safe spaces and fostering an inclusive environment for all. As a student, I appreciate that my school takes a proactive approach rather than merely reacting once an issue has already escalated.

“The University of Arizona’s student government is not gonna be able to move mountains for, but what we can do is make sure our students are supplied with the right resources and the right information, ” Senate President Benjamin Huffman said. 

Huffman explained how important it is for students to be kept in the loop as situations evolve, noting that many students were initially unaware of issues until they escalated. 

“Having that information,” Huffman said, “came with a sense of fear, but that’s just due to the weight of that information.” 

This is a crucial difference in student government. ASU’s response to the CRU event seemed reactive, as it only addressed the situation after it became a public controversy. 

Shouldn’t student governments anticipate issues before they escalate? After all, student government should be more than just about filling positions; it should ensure student voices are heard and their concerns are addressed in real time, preventing problems from spiraling out of control.

As Huffman explained, elections are about more than just campaigning for office; they are about listening to peers, advocating for their concerns and representing them effectively. 

“Student government should be a platform to amplify the voices of students, not just those of the elected officials,” Huffman said. 

The upcoming ASUA elections, therefore, offer more than just a chance to fill seats — they’re an opportunity for students to elect leaders who will actively advocate for inclusivity, safety and values that matter to all of us.

While some argue that student governments have limited power and influence, Huffman stressed that the true power lies with the students themselves. 

“If we tell administration, this is what we’re gonna do, this is how we wanna change everything, and this is how we wanna improve this campus, and then we look behind us, and there’s no student support, then there’s no students supporting us, then there’s nothing — the way our government works is that we only are able to do things with administration, put pressure where we can if we have student support,” Huffman said. 

Yes, the ASU controversy might be seen as an isolated event, and some may feel student governments shouldn’t be expected to address every social issue. However, doing so overlooks the broader role student government plays in shaping campus culture. Issues like these reflect deeper systemic concerns that student government can influence, fostering an environment where positive change is possible. 

Dismissing this issue misses the broader impact student government can have on campus culture. These aren’t isolated events; they reflect deeper, systemic concerns that the student government has the power to address, but only when they feel it is important enough. 

Underestimating our student representatives’ roles, powers and responsibilities could result in missed opportunities for growth, advocacy and meaningful change — not just on the surface but also at a deeper, more internal level.

As I’ve mentioned, feeling heard, seen and safe is essential. I’m genuinely proud of how this current ASUA has worked to protect an environment on campus where those feelings are not only possible but actively supported. 

With ASUA elections approaching, students have a vital opportunity to elect leaders who will stand firm in upholding inclusivity and safety. The recent controversy at ASU highlights the need for proactive student governments — ones that take action before crises arise, not after. ASUA’s proactive approach to supporting students shows its commitment to creating a safe, inclusive campus, and that’s something worth supporting.

The ASUA governing body, as outlined on their website, currently includes 14 college-specific senators, three at-large senators and three executive officers. These positions will be up for election in the upcoming cycle. The governing body currently has one member over the expected total, according to their 2024-2025 Elections Code. 

Eligible candidates were officially notified on Monday, Feb. 10, and campaigning started the following day, Feb. 11. There are still ways to get involved with ASUA for those who missed the deadline. Opportunities include running as a write-in candidate, applying for non-elected roles or joining the executive cabinet, which the president appoints. 

As the election dates approach, it’s essential to understand the positions available and how you can get involved — whether you’re running or supporting those who are. Now is the time to stay informed and engaged. 

The ASUA Primary Elections will take place online from Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, at 8 a.m. to Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, at 8 p.m. — make sure your voice is heard!

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Sarah Arellano is a junior at the University of Arizona studying Journalism and Law. When she is not reporting, she likes to read all sorts of books.