News Release: Committee co-chairs post new statement on voting in USUSA Elections

The Utah State University Student Association released a statement on April 15 regarding the most recent USUSA Elections season. The statement was released via Instagram stories and addressed both proxy voting and concurrent enrollment students. The statement was written by the current and incoming elections co-chairs. 

The statement noted that in this year’s elections, 113 concurrent enrollment students voted. These students were able to vote because they are recognized as USUSA members due to their “active registrations as reflected in Banner.”

According to the statement, “Students who wish to see a change in the definition of USUSA membership can work with their elected officers to pursue that change.” 

It also acknowledged proxy voting, which is when someone else uses a student’s device and casts their vote for them. This practice is forbidden according to the USUSA bylaws, but many witnesses and firsthand testimonies admit it is still a common practice during elections. 

“Language will be added to clarify what proxy voting is, including the touching of devices of others by a candidate or team member,” the statement read. “We also recognize that it can be hard to provide evidence and prove that this occurred and going forward, we will continue working on our processes with the goal of making it easier to address and review potential bylaw violations.” 

The Utah Statesman encourages student feedback on all university affairs, including USUSA Elections. USUSA provided a survey following the release of this statement, which can be found at usu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_25nSCLfE5K5zaYK. Students are also encouraged to utilize the MyVoice program, which can be accessed through the MyUSU app and website, to be catalysts for change on campus. 

“We appreciate the students who have given input during this process,” the statement read. “We are working to make sure that future elections are as transparent, fair, and accountable as possible.”

­— news@usustatesman.com