Otterbein Democrats and Turning Point USA at Otterbein share an unexpected connection: both student organizations were founded on the same day. Despite this shared origin, the organizations have vastly different identities, missions and approaches to political engagement.
Otterbein Democrats is led by Rowan Ratvasky, a senior majoring in global studies and political science, who serves as the president and political director. Regarding why the organization was created, Ratvasky said, “I felt like there needed to be an outlet for students to use their voices, especially students who identify more with the Democratic Party. A lot of people are unhappy across the country and here at Otterbein. I wanted to be able to an outlet for more students to voice their opinions.”
During Otterbein Democrats’ first meeting, the organization emphasized discussion-based engagement and collaboration. This approach aligns with how Ratvasky defines free speech: “Free speech here at Otterbein is truly wonderful, and we stand out compared to other Ohio universities. As a private university, we are not bound by senate bill one, which means that we are allowed to speak out on various topics.”
Regarding coexistence with other political organizations on campus, Ratvasky says that student groups with differences in political opinions can coexist. "We see it in everyday society, "Ratvasky continued. "But some people do hate each other and treat each other horribly, so I'm glad that we don't see that behavior here at Otterbein.”
Like Turning Point USA, Otterbein Democrats has received both praise and criticism. Ratvasky acknowledged this feedback, saying, “some attendees aren’t Democrats but vote as such. The Democratic Party does a lot of disappointing things and makes mistakes. But so does the other party, but they take away human rights. You don't have to be a Democrat to join us.”
Turning Point USA at Otterbein is led by Lance Preston, a senior majoring in journalism and media communication, who serves as president of the organization. Regarding why the organization was created, Preston said, “to uphold the things we have in this country, that other countries don't. We must fight like every generation has had to." He said that Turning Point presented him the opportunity to do so.
Preston emphasized how there is a disproportionate amount of liberal ideology compared to conservative ideology. "I haven't heard any of my teachers challenge the mainstream liberal view of abortion or the liberal view of LGBTQ ideology," Preston said. "I don't think anyone's trying to censor us, but it's more about breaking out of the epistemic bubble in the echo chambers.”
Regarding Otterbein Democrats and whether different political groups can coexist, Preston expressed support: “Yes, we have been in this country for 250 years." Preston then described how he believes that the left in America have gone too far in its radicalism. Regardless, Preston added, "I’m glad they exist, and I’m excited to engage with those students."
The founding of both Otterbein Democrats and Turning Point USA marks a significant step for political engagement on campus, especially given the current political climate in the United States. In an era where civic knowledge and voter participation are more important than ever, these organizations provide students with opportunities to learn, discuss and participate in politics in meaningful ways.
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