Opinion: Inzunza, Rivas keep it real with experience, charisma

Want to know about the other candidates? Read Opinion: Cano can transform downtown ASU; fight for lower fees and Opinion: Grossman is close to legislature, has the experience to influence tuition.

The student-government elections are about to close, and there are several candidates bringing innovative and interesting ideas to the table, but it is without a doubt that I say candidates Diana Inzunza and Rudy Rivas are by far the ASU Downtown Phoenix campus’ best option for president and vice president.

As a current commuter student and former downtown resident (two years in the Taylor Place residence hall), I have experienced a variety of administrations, been active in various clubs and organizations (both Downtown and in Tempe), and interacted with many different people. I have been promised things that were never accomplished, and I have jumped through hoops just to see a simple action carried out. But, with Rudy and Diana, I have been told the truth. These two candidates have the ability to “keep it real” and speak the honest truth. They are not making any false promises just for the sake of a vote. They know the system, and they too have been brought down by it. They have been in our shoes as downtown residents and students.

Diana is new to the campus, as it is her first year at ASU, but she is bringing a fresh perspective to the Downtown campus and will hopefully be able to see many projects through as president for her next three years at ASU. Rudy is well acquainted with the campus and has lived in the Taylor Place residence hall since its doors were opened. The first time that I met Rudy was at our freshman orientation while taking a hard-hat tour of the Taylor Place construction site. At that point, Rudy already had big plans for the Downtown campus as he asked the tour guide numerous questions about the amenities of Taylor Place and the possibilities for improvement. He rendered the man speechless.

These are prime examples of the excellence, drive and innovation that are being conveyed by these candidates. Their experience alone speaks wonders, but their character and charisma is what attracts me to their campaign the most. Their approachability and their desire to hear what students have to say is a crucial asset to a successful government cabinet. Their platform calls for action, service, and unity, and I sincerely believe that they will provide the Downtown Phoenix campus all three, with ease. I encourage all downtown students to vote Diana Inzunza and Rudy Rivas for ASASUD President and Vice President for the school year of 2011-2012.

Alex Reese is a journalism junior at the Walter Cronkite School.