Presidential, vice presidential, and senatorial candidates for Associated Students of the University of Arizona gathered on the UA Mall yesterday afternoon for “”Candidate-Palooza,”” to rally student support for next week’s primaries.

“”I’m trying to get my name out there so when people hear ‘president,’ they think ‘Brad,'”” said presidential candidate Brad Wulff, a marketing junior.

Members of the elections commission handed out free eegees to students passing by between 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. as candidates handed out fliers and took the opportunity to chat with students.

The results of the Feb. 27 and 28 primary elections will cut the presidential and both vice presidential categories down to two candidates each.

“”There is a lot of pressure because I want to represent the students and I think I would do the best job,”” said presidential candidate Tommy Bruce, an economics sophomore.

Bruce said students have been receptive to his campaign and he is feeling good about the primary elections.

“”I’m feeling a lot of heat, but I’m excited,”” said administrative vice presidential candidate Jen Dang, a psychology junior. “”Elections started off kind of slow but we are getting more hyped and pumped for the primary elections.””

Administrative vice presidential candidate Amy Adamcin, a pre-business sophomore said she has two goals in mind.

“”One, I really want people to come out to vote, and two, I want them to vote for me,”” she said. “”All of the candidates want to improve ASUA, the key is passion.””

All 16 senate candidates will be in both the primary and general elections, however, the primary elections results will rank the top 10 senatorial candidates.

Elections commissioner David Martinez III said ranking is very important for senate candidates.

“”It gives your campaign momentum if you are in the top 10, and if you aren’t it gives you an extra push to work hard before the general elections,”” Martinez said.

Senate candidate Dustin Cox, a political science and sociology junior, said although there are no eliminations for senators in the primaries, it is still important to do well.

“”Primary elections are crucial,”” said senate candidate Brent Hanson, a physiology freshman. “”I’m just making sure I learn a lot from them and get ready for the general elections.””

To get students geared up for the primaries, the elections commission is hosting a free concert on the Mall Monday with the band Ryanhood from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

“”There is a lot of pressure, but I feel confident and I’m running with people who are a big help,”” said senate candidate Jared Cohen, a communications sophomore.

Candidates will be at the concert passing out flyers and talking with students about campaign and ASUA issues.

Students can vote in the primary elections online Tuesday and Wednesday by going to www.asua.arizona.edu and signing in through Student Link.