Students and faculty at Moorpark College react to the outcome of the presidential election and share their experiences and feelings about being able to participate in such a historic event. Moorpark College student Brittany Nader, 18, fashion merchandising major, understands how important it is to vote in this presidential election and views it as an opportunity that all citizens should take advantage of. “We’re a democracy and we were given the right to make a difference, so we have to take advantage of the opportunities we have,” says Nader.

“If we want to make a change, it’s in our hands.” President of the Political Science Club, Justin Cowles, a 24 year-old photojournalism major, feels fortunate to have been able to participate in one of the most important elections in American history. “This is one of the most historic elections because there was both an African-American running for president and a woman for vice president,” says Cowles. “It’s inspiring not only for African-Americans and women, but for everyone.”

Jesse Taylor, 18, theatre arts major at Moorpark College, who is a first time voter, had a great time voting, even though he had to endure long lines due to high voter turnout. “There were long lines and lots of confusion but it is something I have been waiting for,” says Taylor. “In my opinion, voting is the most important thing one can do.There are millions across the world that would do anything to vote.”

Moorpark College Political Science professor Jack Miller thinks that the long lines that were prevalent at so many polling places is due to president-elect Barack Obama’s appeal. “Obama is a great campaigner and efficient communicator who inspires people the way that former President Ronald Reagan did,” says Miller.

Obama’s appeal and policies led to his victory, but also the current economic crisis and disapproval of the current administration were key to his victory. “What we have are retrospective voters, and a message of change during economic troubles is what they wanted to hear,” says Miller. Many people were not surprised by president-elect Obama’s victory.”

“I thought Obama would win because so many people are unhappy with President Bush,” says Cowles. “It was so bad that the Republican Party was even questioning themselves. I thought that John McCain did a really good job, but we just needed new leadership.”