Winthrop College Republicans President David Ibragimov prepares for the Presidential election on Nov. 5.
October 17, 2024
The country is weeks away from the presidential election – with Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump facing off in the polls on Nov. 5.
Winthrop students can become involved in politics on campus by joining a club that aligns with their political beliefs – including the College Republicans and College Democrats. Winthrop College Republicans are a student organization for more conservative-minded students on campus, club president David Ibragimov said.
“Winthrop is very unique in the fact that we offer so many clubs of different political and ideological leanings,” Ibragimov said. “Whether you are interested in a campaign or are passionate about certain issues in America, you will be sure to find someone who shares your thoughts, concerns, and passions.”
The College Republicans host events on campus while working within the Rock Hill community. The organization became a member of the College Republicans of America in March – becoming the third chapter in South Carolina. “Education is an important aspect of the organization,” Ibragimov said.
“I believe that students should understand that, especially in a time of misinformation and political turmoil, it is very important to understand what they support and why they support it,” Ibragimov said. “We believe that education is a very essential step toward a better society, and this is what we are here to provide; an education about what conservatism aims to achieve.”
Ibragimov suggests that voters look at all sides of the political spectrum to have a better understanding of issues.
“I would advise sticking with neutral and independent sources, but sometimes it is also important to see what conservative or liberal commentators are saying about particular issues,” Ibragimov said. “By seeing what the other side is talking about, and potentially challenging your world views, you can become better educated, and more certain about what you believe.”
Ibragimov recommends that new voters focus on the main issues that matter most to them.
“When you are a first-time voter, no one expects you to know everything about your candidates, and it is ok if you don’t,” Ibragimov said. “Understand what you care about, what your priorities are, and which of the candidates, if any, satisfies your desires for what you want to see in the country.”
With the upcoming election, the organization, alongside the College Democrats, hosted a bi-partisan panel and a presidential debate watch party for students to prepare for the election.
“We will all come together as a community,” Ibragimov said. “At times, we get so wrapped up in the propaganda, animosity, and discord of our politics that we forget to be human. What I can tell everyone is that you should vote how you believe is right, but you should also realize that we will all be ok,” Ibragimov said.
Currently, Harris leads in the national polls by only 2% while Trump leads in South Carolina by 10%.
“This Presidential election is predicted to be one of the closest in American History,” Ibragimov said. “Being a Political Scientist, this puts myself and many of my colleagues at an edge. What I am particularly afraid of is the aftermath of the election, regardless of who wins. I believe that all of us, whether right or left, will win and lose. However, we must do this peacefully, and without violence.”
The College Republicans host weekly meetings for interested students. For more information about the College Republicans, email collegerepublicans@winthrop.edu or visit their Facebook at Winthrop College Republicans or Instagram at wu_collegerepublicans.
Early voting for South Carolina residents begins Oct. 21 and ends on Nov. 2. Requests for absentee ballots need to be received by Oct. 25. Absentee ballots must be returned by Nov. 5.
