For some UW-Madison students, Associated Students of Madison's handling of this week's election-crippling computer glitch was the last straw. Talk of revolution is in the air, and this editorial board supports such warranted, healthy discussion.
We believe that ASM has largely failed to live up to its mission in recent years, unable to engage a vast majority of the student population. Although some reports indicated higher than expected voter turnout earlier this week, the greatest level of participation in ASM's 12-year history was recorded in 2003 when 17 percent of all students cast ballots. Why the so-called student government cannot rally the interest of 80 percent of students is reason alone for major reform.
Further, ASM is plagued by perennial problems rooted in bureaucratic disorganization. The Student Services Finance Committee is always under scrutiny and has often found to be in violation of non-viewpoint neutrality policies. Press conferences are thrown together at the last minute for programs the organization designates as student priorities. ASM was not at the table when the city's Halloween plans were made last year. If this is what student government is supposed to be, count us out.
We are encouraged to find students observing the downfalls of ASM and acting to make real change on campus. We look forward to hearing from the alternative government movement and implore those organizing the effort to engage all students, something ASM has never done.
Cardinal View editorials are crafted independent of news coverage.
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