The CalSERVE party’s domination of this year’s ASUC election represents a pivotal moment for UC Berkeley’s student government. For the first time in four years, the next student body president is not from Student Action. For the first time in three years, the next senate does not contain an 11-member majority from Student Action. Along with these changes comes a healthy shift in leadership styles for the ASUC — one that must translate into clear results to make the CalSERVE takeover successful.
A variety of factors could explain CalSERVE’s ascendance this year. First, a new limit on party spending probably helped to level the playing field for all candidates. To that end, the fact that SQUELCH! departed from its largely satirical past and ran an entirely serious senate slate in addition to nominating a presidential candidate cannot be ignored. This year, SQUELCH! became a legitimate alternative to the two strongest student political parties, providing voters with more diverse choices.
While students saw SQUELCH! and CalSERVE reinventing themselves, Student Action remained unflinchingly static. But CalSERVE’s biggest strength over the other parties was its organization and the caliber of its candidates.
When thousands of students elected CalSERVE candidates to three of the four main executive offices and seven of the 20 senate seats, they voted for a party with a clear set of values. Where Student Action seemed vague and unimaginative, CalSERVE successfully delivered a strong message centered around progressive politics that resonated well with the student body. CalSERVE’s newly elected executives and senators are passionate leaders who will not shy away from taking decisive stances on tough political issues. Students know where they stand.
Yet the CalSERVE elected officials must also be wary of becoming too divisive. Debate around the ASUC Senate’s controversial divestment bill last week has reinforced in students’ minds how easily the campus climate can be strained and fractured. At the same time that they work to uphold their beliefs, the CalSERVE officials — especially the incoming executives — must try to build coalitions among all students.
Similarly, they will be largely responsible for setting the tone for the ASUC’s relationship with incoming chancellor Nicholas Dirks. As promised during the campaign, they will need to establish a strong connection with Dirks that keeps him visible and accountable to student interests.
The students who voted in the ASUC election spoke loud and clear this year: They supported the promise of a change in leadership. Now, CalSERVE must deliver on its mandate.