We endorsed a Democrat — here’s why that’s a big deal
The Rice University Young Democrats typically don’t endorse candidates in Democratic primaries. That’s by design; our Constitution requires a “unanimous vote” of everyone at a general meeting, students and officers alike, to grant a primary endorsement.
That said, we’ve proudly endorsed Allison Lami Sawyer in her race for State Representative.
Sawyer is a quality candidate and proven leader who would make an exceptional legislator. She’s an accomplished businesswoman, has a strong track record of nonprofit work, and graduated from Rice’s own Jones School of Business back in 2010. If you plan on voting in the Democratic primary (early voting starts on February 20th!), she deserves your vote on her merits alone.
But that’s not the only reason we endorsed her. Her opponent in the primary is Lloyd Wayne Oliver, a self-styled “Tea Party Democrat” and incendiary speaker. Oliver is sexist, racist, homophobic, and just about every other form of hateful one could think of. Perhaps most despicably, he said that we should prosecute domestic violence less often because the victims should “maybe learn how to box a little better.”
A victory for Oliver would be the worst possible outcome — for Democrats, human decency and the constituents of House District 134. If you plan to vote in the primaries this spring, vote for Sawyer.
Charles Paul, on behalf of the Officers of the Rice Young Democrats.
Paul is a McMurtry College junior and is also the web editor of the Thresher.
More from The Rice Thresher
Rice’s Title IX policy-making must be transparent and inclusive
"We are deeply concerned about Rice’s current policy-writing process regarding the release of a new Title IX policy, due August 14. Based on our observations and concerns with the administration's response, we feel there are issues in the following areas: coronavirus accommodations, publication of data, transparency and equitable representation."
Rice plans to support Harvard and MIT in lawsuit against new ICE regulations for international students
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) updated regulations for students on nonimmigrant F-1 and M-1 visas on July 5. According to President David Leebron, Rice plans to participate in legal action to overturn these new regulations by participating in the action filed by Harvard and MIT through an amicus brief.
Administration’s communications should be clear and realistic, not cautiously optimistic
Students deserve to know more given the substantial adjustments we will have to make in response. We implore the administration to be more transparent about their contingency plans.
Please note All comments are eligible for publication by The Rice Thresher.