The College Democrats held a student rally to show support for Harold Ford, Jr. and encouraged students to vote in the upcoming election during the event yesterday at the Rose Theatre.
The rally was titled "A Generation of Leadership" with most of the speakers touching on the subject. Despite low attendance and the absence of Ford from the event, students strongly voiced their support.
"Young people can make the biggest difference in this election," said John Marek, president of the College Democrats. "Get the word out. Get into your cell phones. Call everyone you know and tell them to vote for Harold Ford, Jr."
Adajyo, a female vocal group made up of students, rendered an inspirational piece for the rally.
"I felt that it was very important for us to sing at this rally because we know what Mr. Ford stands for," said Stephani McCoy, a member of Adajyo. "I feel that he understands what the issues are and how to serve the people."
Many people feel that the Tennessee senatorial race is one of the key races in this election season.
"Democrats need only six seats to gain control of the senate," Marek said. "The key states this year are Virginia, Missouri and Tennessee. With the senate race so close every vote matters."
Student supporters said that they believe Ford is the best candidate because of his age, as he is better able to understand the needs of younger Americans.
"College students represent a new leadership for the country," said David Jones, a rally speaker. "I believe that Mr. Ford will best represent that new leadership."
Kimberly Baugh hadn't chosen a candidate to vote for until she started watching the debates.
"After watching the debates, I became very interested in the debate and Harold Ford, Jr.," she said. "Ford seemed to be very knowledgeable of the issues and he answered questions. He spoke about plans that would fix many of the problems of today."
The speakers, Marek, Jones, Kenneth Taylor and Tamika Jackson, spoke about college students using their power to affect change. Voting, whom ever it would be for, would be a way for to young people to show their power.
"We have a chance to change the course of the election by showing our power at the polls," Jackson said. "Get out and vote."
