The basics: The politics

As in any election, there is always a degree of politicking involved.

Here is the lowdown on the SFUO politics.

From 2003 to 2006, the SFUO executive and BOA was dominated by relatively apolitical individuals. To such a point that many, many student groups appeared during this period, and basically organised. This is simplyfying things, yes. I agree. I apologise.

In the 2006 elections, the "Activist" fringe of the SFUO decided to go for Prime Time. An unofficial slate was formed, consisted of Seamus Wolfe, François Picard, Matthew Joseph and Danika Brisson. "Four on Six! Four on Six! Four on Six!" they chanted.

Wolfe and Picard ran unopposed.
Matthew Joseph (VP Social) basically ran unopposed, as his main challenger endorsed him midway through the election.

Danika had serious contenders running against her, and smashed the opposition, winning 53% of the vote.

The two other positions went to "non-aligned" Pam Hrick (President) and Dean Haldenby (VP Finance).

During their term, all six executives agreed on pretty much every issue. At least, in front of the scene. Including on CFS.

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A year of many new initiatives for the SFUO. A "prospective" membership of the CFS, which lasted about 20 days before the BOA overturned the decision of the executive. A major overhaul of the BOA itself (take that BOA). The first ever "Green week". More money for clubs. More green initiatives. More big speakers. More political campaigns.

No major revolution. But revolution for U of O standards.

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The three members running for re-election (Wolfe, Picard, Brisson) form a "undeclared" bloc. Their three challengers (Thibault, Séguin, Doneathy), inevitably form the "defacto bloc", which, makes little sense, especially if you compare their platforms.

Though "undeclared" Roxanne Dubois fits much closer to the Wolfe/Picard/Brisson axis than she does with the Thibault/Séguin/Doneathy one. She has been able to steer clear of politics.

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The other race between Joël Larose and Nicholas Laplante will be interesting, because even though Laplante fits closer with the "undeclared" bloc, he is not on great terms with them. Some even favour Larose's candidacy. Larose is the "safer" choice for both "undeclared" slates. Which will be interesting tomorrow when they announce results.

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And why are they unofficial/undeclared slates? See next post.