Opinion

A Look Inside the Mind of a Senator

A student senator shares his view on some campus politics

By Aaron Sterling

Posted on Oct. 31, 2005, at 12:00 a.m.

For most of us, that is the eventual goal of our college careers; to obtain an education in our field of choice that will better enable us to be the most effective members of society that we can be. However, education does not end when we exit the classroom door, or academia as a whole, for that matter.

Next week, as we do every November, voters in the state will go to the polls and make choices that will determine the path our great state will take over the next few years for decades. However, in preparation making those choices, however, it is important that people make themselves as educated on the facts surrounding the issues as they can. Many people try to pass off their opinions as fact, and will try to persuade voters with “facts” that really have little basis in truth.

Regarding Question 1, much has been predicted about its failure leading to the eventual adoption of same-sex marriage in Maine. It is important to note, however, that an amendment was added to LD 1196 whose passage Question 1 aims to reject, on the floor of the House that reads, “This Act may not be construed to create, add, alter or abolish any right to marry that may exist under the Constitution of the United States, the Constitution of Maine or the laws of this State.” Reference to this law in future campaigns for same-sex marriage in Maine would actually weaken the case in favor of it.

To dispell another popular myth about Question 1, the Maine Human Rights Act, which LD 1196 amends, allows more leeway for families who live in the same residence as the apartment or room they are renting. If they feel uncomfortable renting it to someone, regardless of reason, they are legally allowed to restrict renting. This means that even if Question 1 fails, if you are renting out part of your house you can still reject a gay applicant if you feel uncomfortable with it.

Although most of the debate in Maine nowadays seems to be regarding Question 1, there are six other referendum questions to be decided on the ballot next Tuesday. Questions 2 through 6 are bond questions, and Question 7 is an amendment to the Maine Constitution. Just because there is little being said about these issues does not mean there are not two sides to each of these issues. Do your “homework”. Read up on each question, and use the facts you obtain to decide where you stand.

Regardless of which way you intend to vote next week, be sure you do your own research on the issues. Sure, listen to what other people tell you, but in the end, remember that your vote is yours and no one else’s.

Aaron Sterling is a senior majoring in public managment and political science, a student senator and president of the Off-Campus Board.

Campus Currents: Gay Marriage