In an effort to eliminate cheating during Student Executive Council (SEC) elections, new rules will be implemented for future elections.

Past candidates have broken campaigning rules, such as campaigning before the set dates and going over the spending budget set by the SEC. Previously owned items have been used in campaigns, which led to unfairness for other candidates. “We are more strict with rules and disqualifications this year to eliminate disadvantages and to instill an equal race,” Student Body President Jeffrey Wang said.

In the 2010 election, candidates will also be required to give a speech and participate in a debate about school issues in front of the student body. The assembly gives the student body a chance to be introduced to candidates and their future plans. It will be mandatory for all candidates to participate. “This will be an excellent program because now people can know the candidates and it’s not as much of a popularity contest anymore,” sophomore president Ting-Ting Liu said.

This year, an event called Meet the Candidates will take place today at lunch. It features candidates’ booths located around the quad. The student body may ask the candidates questions about their platform and the candidates can campaign to the student body as well.

Some say that these new rules will change the way elections are run. “I think this will scare away some people, but the candidates who truly want a position in SEC will be encouraged,” Liu said.

This new format will allow the student body to learn more about the candidates before election time, so they can make a proper vote. “Putting the right person in office is important for a successful SEC next year,” Liu said.