The basics: CFS

One can not say the word Student elections without pronouncing those three letters: CFS.

That is, unless you are running for the SFUO.

Contrary to outside impressions, there are about 20 passionate people (either pro or against) the CFS on the whole campus. Only about three of them are running in this entire election. Maybe four. (Exec + BOA)

There is a large concensus that a referendum on the CFS should be held. Blake Thibault, for instance, stated during his debate that he felt that there should be a referendum.

This is significant because
1) in his platform he states that he is against the CFS.
2) he voted against prospective membership ( aka referendum) in July.
3) he said that he has changed his mind and feels that the students should have the right to vote on this issue.

So for all outside observers, wishing this would be an election between Pro-CFS and Anti-CFS forces, I am sorry to disappoint. There are clear inclinations from both "unofficial" slates, but that is as far as it goes.

***

That being said, the most vocal supporters of the CFS are Seamus Wolfe and François Picard. Though it is reasonably safe to assume that Wolfe will be coming back next year, it is difficult to make a call on Picard's election. This is significant because Julie Séguin is supported by the most vocal opponent to CFS on campus, Ryan Kennery, who is also running for the BOA and who will, in all likelihood, win his seat.

***

Nonetheless, even Kennery is not that far off from the concensus, which is to hold a referendum.

Debates on campus are generally confined to the BOA, and the debate is relatively sophisticated. (Emphasis on the relatively)

One last note, this might disappoint many, but the words "Canadian Federation of Students" hardly came out during this campaign. By "hardly" I mean did not. One question was asked during the VP University Affairs debate. None were asked during VP Communications. And none were asked during the other debates.

VP social discussed fair trade T-Shirts, thus, linking with the CFS. Nothing very controversial.

In fact, the real "CFS" debate will most likely be held next year.