President-elect Barack Obama wasn't the only person who made history Tuesday night. This year, the 24 million 18-29-year-olds who cast ballots also shared the honor. "Yesterday, more young people voted than in any election since 18-year-olds won the right to vote in 1972," said Heather Smith, executive director of Rock the Vote. "This is a truly remarkable moment; young people have spoken and elected the next president." The record turnout marks the third major election in a row with increased voter turnout, according to Rock the Vote. With 4 million more young voters than 2004, the turnout rate increased 6 percent from the last presidential election. Many Otterbein students can congratulate themselves for participating in this historic election. Some professors cut classes short to allow more time for students to head to the polls, and many students went home to vote. "I wanted to vote in my own precinct and take part in the process on Election Day, at the polls," said Claire Tinkler, senior visual communication major. "It feels really empowering as a young person to be part of an election where our values and votes have been so important." Students had both positive and negative reactions to last night's historic events. "I don't necessarily agree with all of his views but the whole thing brings a great sense of equality to our nation," said freshman business major Devon Latimer. "I was ecstatic and surprised that the U.S. is ready for and voted for a black president," said Julia Oesch, sophomore psychology major. "For a long time, I didn't really trust the government and now I feel much safer." Other students weren't so thrilled. "I was disappointed but I still voted and did everything I could," said Brian Colopy, junior biochemistry major. "I just hope everyone who voted was informed and I'm interested to see what changes and what happens." Tuesday night, students and staff gathered in the Campus Center for an Election Watch Party, sponsored by the Vote Naked campaign, Greek life and High Stakes: The 2008 Presidential Election (SYE 422). "It was a good opportunity to involve students in the election on election night," said Kristin Sutton, Vote Naked campaign coordinator. Whether or not they support Obama, students agree that his administration will bring change. "I'm a little uneasy since everyone seems to be democratic now but this is a big moment for our country and it shows we've come a long way," said Bethany Hyder, junior nursing major. "It restored my faith in the country by getting the candidate that I wanted in office and emphasizes all that we can do and change as Americans," said Tinkler. "I'm elated!" t&c;
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