Rival clubs debate national, local issues

Party lines were drawn across the Quad yesterday with the College Republicans on the right and the Young Democrats on the left, as they squared off in a head-to-head debate in Gowen Hall.

The political tug-of-war covered issues of national prominence as well as topics of pertinence to campus such as affirmative action, school vouchers, the relevance of the United Nations and a state income tax.

The debate was as much a show of political prowess as it was an attempt by members to create awareness of their respective clubs.

Although the debate was tame in comparison to the College Republicans' annual events -- such as the smokeout and animal-rights barbecue -- Mike Wallin, who debated for the conservative students, felt the group represented its views well.

"Our goals for the debate were getting awareness of the club and awareness of our views out to the campus community," he said.

Karrey Nenn of the College Republicans appreciated the venue to express conservative ideals at a traditionally liberal campus.

"I appreciate the opportunity to present a viewpoint that is seldom heard at the UW," he said.

Each member of a four-person panel covered a different topic for each side. The Democrats had the task of supporting two issues opposed by many, affirmative action and a state income tax.

The Republicans argued for school vouchers, which allow students to attend high schools outside their district, and that the United Nations is now irrelevant.

At times, the crowd of more than 70 students was raucous by cheering, jeering and hissing at the participants.

Although they disagreed on the issues, both sides agreed the debate was a worthwhile endeavor.

"I tip my hat to them," said Erick Barron, a member of the Young Democrats. "Even though I didn't agree with all of them, it was an amazing debate."

"We want to educate people who don't understand the difference between Democratic and Republican ideology," said Kevin Futhey, a Democrat debater.

The clubs locked horns in a debate winter quarter and hope to make it a quarterly event.