On Thursday afternoon, Mark Andrews has been chosen as the ASI president for the 2007-2008 school year, as he defeated Shefali Mistry in the run-off elections by a narrow margin of less than two percent.
Andrews received 50.9 percent of the votes tabulated, while Mistry obtained 49.0 percent.
ASI Vice President and Interim Government Elections Officer Hiro Okahana read the results and certified Andrews as the winner.
Andrews, a former AS presidential cabinet Member, admitted to being surprised over the results and the narrow outcome that determined the vote.
“I can’t believe it. I’m still a little shaken up,” Andrews said immediately after the announcement was made.
The total number of votes totaled 1,039 and only 1,027 were valid and tabulated. Andrews received 522 votes to Mistry’s 503.
“She did a really good job as president, that’s all I can say. But right now, I’m just really excited to take over as ASI president and work on the many things that will benefit students,” Andrews said.
Among Andrews’ main measures of improvement as president will be to revive Beach Team, which is a freshmen orientation to ASI. He said he wants student leaders to take a more active role in representing the student body. He also plans to build a Lobby Corp. to guarantee that the interests of students are being met, such as tuition, affordable housing and the increase of minimum wage. He said he means to work with local and federal officials.
Okahana said the run-off election served its purpose for the student body.
“It was an incredibly low turnout. I’m somewhat disappointed, but overall, the elections were very smooth. There wasn’t any controversy with the candidates during the campaign and overall, I’m pleased,” Okahana said.
The low turnout for the elections and subsequent run-off contributed to the narrow margin of difference that gave Andrews the win.
“Honestly, I didn’t even know about the elections,” said film major Stephanie Dowling. She said she hoped the president will do what is in the best interest of the students.
Andrews will assume the ASI presidency starting June 1.
