The Board of Elections' primary purpose is the oversight and implementation of the Student Government's elections each semester. The BOE, acting with the Judicial Board, not only maintains consistency in how elections are conducted but constantly evaluates and interprets the Election Guidelines given to each candidate and available on the BOE's Web site - www.ausg.org/boe.
The decision to ask Mike Mayer to remove his banner was not made by one person but rather the whole of the BOE. In the election guidelines, it clearly states that campaigning is not allowed in Bender Arena, along with other commonly frequented buildings on campus. The BOE unanimously decided that the garage was indeed a portion of Bender and therefore was off-limits for campaigning. Like most decisions made by all portions of the Student Government, it is made clear to all candidates that decisions made by a member of the BOE can be appealed to the Judicial Board. This course of action was not taken in this particular situation.
After speaking to the member of the Board who originally approved the banner in question, it was discovered Mr. Mayer was verbally informed as to appropriate banner locations in addition to the election guidelines. We regret that there was any misunderstanding in this situation. Had a specific location been unclear or had someone wanted to appeal a decision made by the BOE, members of the board were available in their office every day for the week prior to elections.
Should any member of the AU community have any additional questions or concerns regarding elections, the BOE or the SG, we would urge you to follow up with us directly by e-mail (boe@american.edu) or stop by our office (MGC 262). The Eagle is not an appropriate venue for anyone to vent his frustrations or concerns with individuals and we hope those who take issue with any decision made by the SG, elections-related or not, are taken up through the appropriate channels.
Emily Ann Kokol BOE chair, 2008-2009 academic year
