The School of Government and Public Policy hosted a live viewing of the vice presidential debate at CATalyst Studios in the Main Library on Tuesday, Oct. 1. 

The event aimed to provide students with an opportunity to engage with politics, share their thoughts and critically evaluate the performances of candidates Tim Walz and J.D. Vance.

There were plenty of stickers, handouts with important details about the election, bingo activity sheets, pizza and snacks that created a relaxed atmosphere for students to engage with the debate.

 “We hope that we can provide a space for students where they feel like they belong here across the political spectrum, they are able to engage in politics and they can choose what parts of the politics to get involved in […] Elections seemed like an ideal opportunity to do that,” professor and Director of SGPP Alex Braithwaite said. 

Many students said the vice presidential debate is more than just an addition to the presidential debate. It can provide a platform for students just beginning to navigate their political identities and an opportunity to learn about the candidates’ perspectives on important issues that directly impact them– like healthcare, job opportunities, education and the environment.  

Connor Max, an SGPP student majoring in political science said, “I am expecting the topic of economy to be addressed today, homelessness is a huge problem as well. The topic of abortion is also the main topic we are looking forward to be addressed.”

Between breaks and after watching, the students engaged in discussions. Some of the students said that they were expecting a brawl, or an attack from both sides, however, they said it turned out to be very constructive; the facts were provided, and the viewpoints of each candidate were respected and heard by each other.

They also recognized the importance of Generation Z in the upcoming election. “It is important for Gen Z to vote because we make up such a big population, and our emerging generation can make a big difference. Also, I think that a lot of us share similar values and mindsets that we can come together on and enforce,” Keryn Aponte, a student studying physiology, said.

Aponte added that she wanted more discussion of housing issues from the candidates. 

“Because I am a student, I am not in my career yet. I do worry about finding a place to live because it is extremely expensive to live in major cities,” Aponte said. 

Students said they were grateful for events like the vice presidential debate watch party. Several students felt like it enabled them to better interact with peers and engage in political discussion. They also considered the event as a chance to engage in real conversation about issues that are important to their surroundings, rather than simply watching politicians on a screen. 

“I liked this event. I thought political decisions are very personal, but after attending this kind of event, I understand that it is important to be aware of the situations of people in our surroundings – from different age groups and backgrounds – [rather] than just thinking of our situations,” political science student Kristen McQuiggan said.

Professor Braithwaite said they were expecting slightly fewer people assuming that the vice presidential debate doesn’t get as much viewership, but 80 to 100 people showed up. He added that SGPP will try to put more activities to keep people entertained for further events. 

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