In preparation for New Jersey’s upcoming gubernatorial election between Republican candidate, Jack Ciattarelli, and Democratic candidate, Mikie Sherrill, students and staff organized a voter registration drive on September 23 and 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The annual event, hosted by the Political Engagement Project, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, and the William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy, highlights the need for voting in higher education. Students offered candy, pizza, and cake to encourage asking questions, checking voter registration status, and understanding what options are available for the upcoming election, whether that be registering to vote, applying for a mail in ballot, or learning the importance of voting on or by November 4.

American Democracy Project (ADP) Chair and Stockton professor of Political Science, Dr. Claire Abernathy, stated, “We’re offering support for voter registration, but also information about vote by mail ballots. We have some other activities, including trivia developed by some of our students for prizes, and we hope people come by to get some information about how they can participate in elections this fall.” 

The heart of the event came from students themselves, who volunteered to share their reasons for voting and how it applies to Stockton. Student Gabe Purnell said, “Voting is important because the people have the power to change things, things we want, things we don’t. It’s very important for Presidential elections, local elections, etc. Anything you want as the people you have the power to change it…the power to obtain it all through voting.”

According to ADP, 81% of Stockton students are registered to vote, with the goal of this number continuing to rise as election season approaches. Student Senate Governmental Affairs Committee Chairperson, Austin Eckert, remarks, “Civic engagement is really important, especially for college age students. Through asking questions about voting and the election process it creates more care towards politics for the college age group.” 

Students who were not able to attend the drive can still participate in ongoing activities, and another voting drive hosted by Stockton Democrats Club on October 2 from 12 to 3 p.m. in the Campus Center Coffeehouse.

For any additional questions regarding voting and election season, please contact Abernathy via email, claire.abernathy@stockton.edu. To learn how to register to vote, follow this link here. To view the options for voting, click here.