Second Demstock event promotes students

Speakers at the event congratulated and encouraged student efforts.

By Andrea Kszystyniak

Published Oct. 17, 2008

The second Demstock event this semester gathered Democrats of all ages, who came to celebrate the completion of voter registration drives and prepare themselves for the challenges they will face in the next three weeks to get Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama elected.

The event at The Blue Fugue attracted four bands for the purpose of raising funds for local Democratic student groups. Among those in attendance was Chris Kelly, who is running against Rep. Ed Robb, R-Columbia, for the 24th District state House seat.

"My hope is that these young people will elect Obama and expect him to behave himself," Kelly said. "It's not enough to elect him. They have to make sure that he does what they ask. Young people have to be the soul of the American people. The Democratic Party has to be somewhat apprehensive that young people will go after them if they don't perform."

Demstock was not only a rallying place for young Democrats and Obama supporters, but also a great chance for them to unwind and have fun together.

MU College Democrats President Caitlin Ellis said she was proud of the recent accomplishments of the organization.

"It's a great way to take a break from all volunteering and have a good time," Ellis said. "We registered over 7,000 voters at Mizzou and we feel like we deserve a little party."

Boone County broke its record for new voter registration this year, with 21,220 new voters registered.

Kelly said those in attendance should continue their involvement with the election.

"Forty years from now, you will be able to say 'I changed the world,'" Kelly said. "You can do that by delivering Boone County for Barack Obama. The votes are there. Will you go and get them?"

MU freshman Sky Robinson said she agrees with Kelly.

"I don't think our country can take eight more years of what we've had," said Robinson, an intern for the Obama campaign office in Columbia. "I feel if we can't get Obama elected, we're never going to have another Democrat in office. America will just continue to fall in their status with the rest of the world."

Although Mary Still, the Democratic candidate for the 25th District seat, was unable to attend due to a family conflict, her campaign manager, Sarah Wood Martin, addressed the crowd.

"We're in crisis with the war and the economy and I think this is the first time our generation has to realize it," Wood said. "It's time to rally truth as there are only 19 days left."

Nate Kennedy, chairman of the Young Democrats of Missouri College Federation, discussed the group's overall goal.

"Young Democrats will be helping all local races out with elections," he said. "State representatives to presidents, up and down the ticket, getting out the vote."

Kelly expressed approval in the efforts of the Young Democrats.

"If Obama wins in Missouri, it will be because of them," he said.