The All-Campus Judicial Council ruled unanimously against freshman John Fuentes in his appeal to have his named placed on the Spring 2005 election ballot for a 2008 senate seat.
“[Fuentes’] negligence and lack of initiative to learn about the requirements are not an excuse that the Council accepts as reasons for overturning the decision of the Election Committee,” Chief Justice and senior Dave Iseminger stated in his written opinion.
Interested candidates were required to attend one of three informational meetings to be placed on the ballot. Fuentes did not attend any of the informational meetings. He appealed for exemption, citing extenuating circumstances and violations of election by-laws.
“It was clear there was no violation,” Speaker of the House, Chair of the Elections Committee and senior Tom Hayes said. “Fuentes felt like he had exceptional circumstance and wanted [the Election Committee] to give him an exception. I told him no, the deadline was final.”
Fuentes felt the decision was appropriate.
“They were fair,” Fuentes said. “The decision was right and they enforced the rules. I appreciate the time they took.”
SA President and senior Pete Nabozny agreed. “I think ACJC made the right decision,” Nabozny said. “While it’s unfortunate he’s not able to [be put on the ballot], I felt it was important for the Election Committee to stick with the rules and for the ACJC to uphold the rules.”
Fuentes can still be a write-in candidate.
“I wanted to run so badly,” Fuentes said. “I can still be written in, but that really gives me no chance because it is against 10 people who already have a really good chance of winning. I am going to run at-large in the fall, but I really wanted to be [in the 2008 senate seat.] I know everyone better.”
This decision is historical and unusual.
“Traditionally, Senate usually loses these [cases],” Hayes said. “This is the first time [we] have won since I’ve been involved – as far as I know first time we’ve won ever. [The] case was cut and dry.”
Additional reporting by Emily Paret.
He can be reached at mhe@campustimes.org
