Editorial: Vote N.J.

Students spend almost nine months of the year working, studying and living in Princeton — in other words, in New Jersey. Unfortunately, most students do not engage in the life of their adopted home beyond FitzRandolph Gate. But students are — or should think of themselves — as members of this community. Taking part in the democratic process here is an important way to express that membership.

Creating a culture of student voting at Princeton will also significantly benefit the University. By demonstrating a strong electoral presence, the University community can wield more political capital, gain more political exposure and establish itself as an important constituency in the local and state elections. That many students have unsuccessfully run for Borough Council over the years suggests that Princetonians do not wield political power in proportion to their numbers. Though the University should be a natural focal point of political debate, student groups often have difficulty influencing local and state politics because there are few votes to win on campus.

It’s important to note that many initiatives that come before governing bodies in New Jersey fundamentally affect student life. The recent “lifeline” legislation — which grants immunity to some underage drinkers who call emergency services — is one such example. Princeton students deserve to have their voices heard on issues like these, and voting in New Jersey is the only major way to ensure this happens.

Though some students may be reluctant to abandon the opportunity to vote in a contentious race in their home states, they should still consider registering in New Jersey for this election alone. Since this election falls in an odd rather than even year, there are no U.S. congressional races, and New Jersey and Virginia are holding the only gubernatorial races this year. The race between Gov. Jon Corzine and challenger Chris Christie is one of the most contentious in recent years here, and the winner will have the opportunity to settle several issues important to many students at Princeton. The next governor will decide the fate of federal stimulus money, marriage equality, education funding reform and health care mandates in New Jersey. Given the stakes in this election, young people — whose participation skyrocketed in the last election — are likely to have a large impact on these issues, regardless of who receives their vote. This election also represents a referendum on President Obama, who has heavily invested in this election and this state.

On Nov. 3, New Jersey should hear Princeton’s voice.

Visit the P-Votes website to learn how to register to vote — either in person or by absentee ballot — in New Jersey.