Robbie Schuett ran for Vice-President Events two years ago and lost to Irene Enyedy. Unfortunately, it doesn’t appear Schuett took any opportunities to become better prepared or more informed to run for the Students’ Union a second time around.
Schuett’s campaign is full of mission statements and ideological hooks. Phrases like “[Alberta Premier Ralph] Klein can’t see past next week,” and “[the] government will not dictate the rules” pepper his rhetoric, but carry with them few concrete ideas.
He pointed out a need to mobilize students in the political process, both within the walls of this university and at the provincial and federal polls. When asked how he would do this, he jested that if he knew, he would be a Member of Parliament already. Unfortunately, you also need ideas to lobby for students.
Schuett sees opportunities. He quickly pointed out that two elections would likely fall within his term. When asked about his lobbying priorities, Schuett said he’d need to talk it over with his fellow executive before thinking about strategy. To his credit, when pressed, he did say he would stay involved with current SU lobby groups, but his only other strategy for lobbying is to be loud and get in Klein’s face not “kiss his ass.”
Schuett failed to notice the SU’s poor handling of the media this past year, and seemed surprised when we mentioned the senate.
Schuett is a candidate with a lot of spirit and enthusiasm, and would likely represent students with the same sort of zeal. Unfortunately, he also lacks both relevant experience and a full understanding of the position, not to mention little in the way of original ideas.
What will be your lobbying priorities?
“Losing another tuition battle is not something students are interested in. We either need to take it on and win it, or leave it alone. It’s something the whole exec has to look at.”
How will you determine what students’ issues are?
“I am a student, I know what the students’ issues are.”
How will you communicate those issues to the outside world?
“The important thing is to stay active in the community. We’re not getting the youth vote in any election, and it’s important to get business into that election.”
What will your role be on the senate?
“I think I’ll be there to represent my constituency and express our concerns for anything that comes up.”