Secretary of State Steve Simon Visits Campus on Voter Registration Day

Secretary of State Steve Simon Visits Campus

Secretary of State Steve Simon visited Minneapolis College’s American Government and Politics Class in observance of National Voter Registration Day Sept. 24. Simon provided a summary of his role, detailed voting in Minnesota and engaged the students in a lively discussion about the importance of voting and how to continue increasing voter turnout throughout the state.

“It’s extremely powerful having someone who holds a statewide office spend time with our students,” said Lena Jones, instructor for the class who is known for spearheading discourse around important political issues on campus. “Many of our students are from areas of the city where voter turnout is low and Simon’s visit raised awareness for the myriad ways citizens can register to vote and the overall importance of voting.”

Jones indicated several students registered during the class after learning about online voter registration.

Emma Verkuilen, a PSEO student and the College’s Campus Election Engagement Project (CEEP) Fellow was present for Simon’s discussion.

“Simon was very informative, had a pleasant demeanor and was willing to have an open dialogue with students,” said Verkuilen. “He educated us on the laws, regulations, the stigma of voting and why it's important to exercise our right.” 

Verkuilen felt the visit was important because it opens a door for elected officials to see everyday citizens and remind them they are working for and representing the common good. As a CEEP Fellow, Verkuilen will reach out to her peers over the next year to help them register to vote, navigate through daunting voting rules, provide education and organize Get Out The Vote events on campus. “I think the forum with Simon helped students feel like their voice is being heard and there is an importance in citizen duties.” 

Jones hopes to have Simon return to campus during election season to engage a larger audience.

“Change starts at the local level and we are committed to ensuring our students get to the polls so their needs and opinions are valued, represented and made a priority,” said Jones. “Their vote is representative of their voice and opens the door for other ways to be engaged in their communities and create relationships with their lawmakers.”

Learn more about voting in Minnesota and registering to vote.