When looking at this year’s GSB elections, the clear choice is Roling/Dobbels for a few obvious reasons. For starters, one only has to look at the endorsements the candidates have received. Both tickets have nearly the same level of experience in GSB, yet nearly three times as many senators have put their support in for Roling/Dobbels versus Peterson/Wilson. This speaks volumes as to the respect Roling and Dobbels earn. It also says something about how much GSB insiders would rather work with Luke and Nate, and the majority of senators have faith in their ability to get the job done. Ms. Peterson and Mr. Wilson, however, do not command this respect from their peers.

At the debate Thursday night, it was plainly obvious which ticket was prepared to represent our students. A pivotal point for me was a question regarding tuition. The candidates were asked what they would do to combat tuition raises, excluding lobbying. It was difficult to watch Chandra Peterson fumble for ideas, meanwhile using lobbying in everything she said. Tuition and debt are the most important issues to students, and it troubles me that Ms. Peterson did not have prepared ideas outside of lobbying efforts.

The most important issue for me in this debate is deciding who I want representing us to the Administration, the Board of Regents, and our State Legislators. I know personally how charismatic and level-headed Mr. Roling and Mr. Dobbels are in front of a crowd, and the two always speak in a respectful manner. I cannot say the same for Mr. Wilson. Last semester, the big issue on campus was the Memorial Union Chapel. After much publicity and discussion, the GSB Senate passed a resolution on the issue, one Mr. Wilson disagreed with. Instead of respecting the decision of the vast majority of his peers, Mr. Wilson proceeded to yell at the senate and ridicule us for our opinions. While Vice President Peterson sat idly by, Mr. Wilson was allowed to shred any amount of respect he had within GSB as he lost all control of his emotions. I do not want someone representing me to President Geoffroy who I can’t trust to not yell and shout at people who disagree with him.

We are lucky at Iowa State to have a very competent GSB. When it comes time to vote, I hope you take what I say in consideration. GSB will still function no matter who wins, but only one ticket commands the respect of their peers. That ticket is Luke Roling and Nathan Dobbels, and I encourage all to vote for this responsible duo.

Erik Hofstad, GSB Senator