Justin Moran, a sophomore in computer science, and Student Government Sen. Evan Martinez, a sophomore in political science, are the two candidates running for three seats that represent the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS).

In 2023, 441 LAS students participated in the election where they elected two balloted candidates and two write-in candidates, tied with three votes each. Martinez was confirmed to one of the LAS Senate seats in September.

Student Government is a student organization that exists to serve and represent all students, according to the student organization database. They annually distribute $2.6 million in student fee revenue to organizations on campus and in Story County.

The Student Government elections will take place Tuesday and Wednesday, and ballots will be emailed to students’ Iowa State email addresses.

The following interviews with Martinez and Moran were conducted by email:

What are your qualifications for being a Senator?

Martinez: “Naturally, a student studying political science has some passion towards public policy and government. I find that student government has been the perfect outlet for me to exercise my deep interest in advocating for what I believe is right. Studying political science has allowed me to grow as an intellectual and helped me develop skills that best suit me for thinking critically about decisions that will affect not only my constituents but the entirety of the student body.”

Moran: “I am an Eagle Scout, meaning I have years of experience with leadership as well as leadership related training from being in Boy Scouts.”

What are the most significant issues facing your constituents, and how will you address them?

Martinez: “The College of LAS naturally attracts some of the most intellectually curious students – they often engage in debate and discussion of complex issues. The departments within the college have done a wonderful job in allowing these discussions and differences of opinion to thrive in the classroom. I believe the most significant issue within the college is helping students become aware of contemporary issues that affect their everyday lives. Historically, it has been the areas of study housed within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences that have been the biggest advocates for reform and progress. I believe that it is essential for students within the college to have access to publications that cover a variety of different topics such as finance, foreign affairs, and science to help them best understand how their world is changing. I plan to continue the work I have started in my first term, working with Parks Library to continue to grow the list of free publications available to students at Iowa State.”

Moran: “Having more companies surrounding LAS attend career fairs- especially for psychology related fields. Also, the carver bathrooms need an update.”

Why should students vote for you?

Martinez: “I have made it clear to my peers in student government that I will use my voice and influence as a Senator on campus to uplift student voices and provide a platform for student advocacy. I want every student on this campus to feel like they have a platform to express their opinion and to feel comfortable to question. Regardless of my opinion, whether I side with you or not, I will make sure that every student on campus has resources available to best educate themselves on issues of substance and most importantly, have the ability to feel heard.”

Moran: “Because I will listen to what students want to see changed with our college.”

Why do you want to join Student Government?

Moran: “I feel like it would be fun put my knowledge in leadership to the test.”

Why do you want to return to Student Government and what are you most proud of during your time in Student Government?

Martinez: “I want to return to student government because I want to continue the work that I have started. As a member of the Finance Committee, I have helped provide proper oversight in the allocation of student funds to student organizations. Along with my peers on the committee, I have helped clubs on campus receive funding while making sure that the qualifications are met and the money is spent appropriately. As a Senator, I have proudly worked on projects to expand free access to publications for students and faculty. At the time of writing this, I have successfully convinced Parks Library to consider funding free access for all students and faculty to Bloomberg.com – a publication that covers everything from finance to domestic/international issues that are relevant to everyday Americans.”