Categories: College University Athletics

LSU Elections: Lawmakers Intervene for Disqualified Candidates

Students discussing elections at LSU campus

News Summary

In a surprising twist, Louisiana State lawmakers have stepped in to help disqualified students, Alex Foret and Isabelle Tatman, regain their spots in the upcoming LSU student government elections. Amid bribery allegations, Senators Seabaugh and Miller argue for student representation and the integrity of the electoral process. The reinstatement raises questions about the influence of state legislators and the autonomy of student governance as the elections approach on March 20-21.

Louisiana Lawmakers Step In to Save Disqualified Candidates in LSU Elections

In a surprising twist of events at Louisiana State University (LSU), two state lawmakers, Senators Alan Seabaugh and Gregory Miller, have jumped into the fray to get disqualified candidates Alex Foret and Isabelle Tatman back on the ballot for the upcoming student government elections. This intervention comes amid *explosive* bribery allegations that have turned the typical election season into a hotbed of controversy.

What Happened?

Foret and Tatman, both former student legislative aides in the Louisiana Senate, were vying for the top student government spots—president and vice president, respectively. Excitement was in the air until February 24, 2023, when they got the boot from the race due to allegations that Foret had offered dinner to fraternity members in exchange for their support. Yes, you read that correctly—*dinner* for votes! The LSU Student Government Judicial Branch Election Court made the call to disqualify the dynamic duo, sending shockwaves across campus.

The Lawmakers’ Intervention

Not one to back down from a challenge, Seabaugh and Miller filed a brief stating that the evidence of bribery was flimsy at best. They championed the cause of allowing student voters to have their say in the elections, suggesting that every student deserves the right to choose their representatives. Despite the court’s original ruling standing firm, LSU Dean of Students Fran’Cee Brown-McClure decided to put Foret and Tatman back on the ballot for the elections slated for March 20-21. This surprising turn of events raises eyebrows and questions about the integrity of both student governance and the role of state legislators in such matters.

What’s the Fallout?

One point of concern is how this might affect the already established rules and the integrity of student governance. Cronin, the Chief Justice of Student Government Judiciary, maintained that the proper procedures were followed during the disqualification. Meanwhile, some political analysts have characterized the lawmakers’ hands-on approach as “inappropriate” and “bizarre.” It’s a tense situation that has left students and faculty alike scratching their heads.

Looking Ahead

Brown-McClure emphasized the need to balance *university protocols* with constitutional rights in her decision to reinstate the candidates. To further ensure fairness and compliance with state laws, an internal review of the Student Government Election Code and Judicial Court procedures will be conducted. There are concerns lingering in the air about the possibility of intimidation towards student judges who had to handle the fallout from this high-profile intervention by state legislators.

What Are Students Saying?

The reinstatement is considered unusual by both current and former LSU student senators. Questions loom large about the *independence* of student governance and whether lawmakers should even be involved in the electoral process. This incident shines a spotlight on the political landscape surrounding student body elections, especially with implications that could affect student representation on the LSU Board of Supervisors.

Historically Speaking

This isn’t the first time that Louisiana lawmakers have waded into LSU’s student government elections. Back in 2021, an endorsement from former Governor John Bel Edwards raised eyebrows and sparked ethical debates. It seems that the political implications of student elections have a history of grabbing attention, and this year’s controversies are no different.

As the elections approach, discussions surrounding key issues like *diversity*, campus safety, and mental health resources have taken center stage, emphasizing the significant role that student leaders play in governance. The need for a *broad participation* in these elections has never been more vital, and now, more than ever, students are encouraged to get involved and voice their opinions.