This article was written in an intensive reporting workshop in 2020 from the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications
As the University of Florida’s student body election season emerges into full swing, the Gator Party takes the lead by confidently announcing its executive ticket first. Former Senate President Cooper Brown, along with current Vice President Faith Maniti and Treasurer Giovanni Mompremier, appeared in the bid for student body president. As the newly elected officials take office, UF students eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of the party’s campaign promises and its platform ideals. The Gator Party’s focus on student life, safety, accessibility and wellness has been publicly revealed on social media, promising improvements in the campus community.
Last year, in Spring 2020, the Gator Party aimed to create a more balanced academic life and allow smooth transitions and opportunities for certain marginalized groups within SG involvement culture.
Former SG Vice President Lauredan Official saw the policies of his party’s platform come to life such as the opening of cabinet positions for marginalized groups. However, Official, a 22-year-old senior, declined to comment on the Gator Party’s prospects and past accomplishments, regarding platform policies. An SG rep or official was not able to confirm whether or not that specific policy claimed, as well as others had been met.
The Gator Party’s platform garners both support and skepticism, with students expressing a range of opinions about the feasibility and impact of promises.
Cyrano Davis, a 20-year-old sophomore, is critical of the party’s approach, stating, “They’re not addressing systematic or pressing issues like the ongoing exploitation of prison labor. It seems they care more about less significant matters like parking.”
In contrast, Wallyah Pierre, a 20-year sophomore, believes that the Gator Party may have faced challenges in fulfilling all of their campaign promises but thinks they have made a significant effort in tackling pressing concerns.
21-year-old Alexis Ture, remains optimistic about the Gator Party’s platform. She says it is essential to consider the complexity of issues they want to address and give them time to make progress.
In the midst of the University of Florida’s student body election fervor, the Gator Party’s platform has sparked both hope and skepticism among UF students. Students emerge with diverse opinions, ranging from criticism concerning the lack of attention toward pressing concerns to acknowledgment of the party’s earnest effort to implement change. As the Gator Party embarks on this new chapter, its successes and challenges will be closely monitored, revealing the true impact of its policies on the University of Florida community.
