As a UF student, I have been interested in the controversy with online voting that has unfolded in recent weeks. I sympathize with both sides and see valid points all around concerning the issue.
One aspect of the current debate that is a bit unsettling to me, though, is the response of Vice President for Student Affairs Patricia Telles-Irvin and her continued abuse of power through activism on student political issues. The latest installment of this recurring story now involves the online voting lawsuit.
Telles-Irvin's conduct is disappointing. I plead with her to refrain from her interventionist actions in areas of university life that students have possessed a level of autonomy over since the inception of this fine institution. Student Government and the laws that direct this democratically elected entity are to be respected, even if one disagrees with them.
In a time of budget cuts and other pressing issues, Telles-Irvin should be concentrating on solving real problems and not forcing her political activism down the throats of students. We do not need our "mommy" to come and save the day by telling us how to think through "independent" committees that she will appoint.
For a moment, let us put aside our differences on the issue of online voting and stand against Telles-Irvin's attempt to violate SG's sovereignty. If we truly believe in liberal ideals, let us put an end to this abuse of power.
