PSST candidates aim to give

‘voice to the voiceless’
Student voters may be scratching their heads in wonder when they see “PSST” next to several candidate names on the ASUO primary ballot next week.
The acronym stands for “Progressive Students Starting Today,” and it’s a group of 13 candidates who hope to “give a voice to the voiceless who right now are the majority of the student population,” according to the group’s platform.
PSST member Sarah Wells, who is running for ASUO Student Senate, said the group is not affiliated with a political party and has no official liberal or conservative lean. She adds, however, that most members are more liberal.
Wells said current senators are not in touch with their constituents.
“We’re not trying to push anyone out,” Wells said. “We’re trying to convince our peers of our abilities in making sure our funds are adequately allocated.”
Wells and senate candidate Emily Sousa are not labeled as PSST on the ballot, but they are members of the group.
The group aims to represent students of color; lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students; international students; non-traditional students and students active in fee-funded groups, according to the platform.
Wells said the idea of starting a progressive voting block started last year, but not enough potential member candidates existed to create it.
“We strive for a more inclusive atmosphere for all students in all decision-making bodies on the student and administration level,” according to the platform. “We propose diversity, equity, and unity in a government by ALL students for ALL students!”

— Jared Paben