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For Central Connecticut State University Junior Madison O’Neill, taking initiative of her right to vote is an act she does not take lightly.

“Especially being a criminology major here at CCSU, politics and law are a big part of my life,” O’Neill stated. “It doesn’t matter the election, I’m going to vote no matter what.”

For the previous presidential election back in 2016, O’Neill believed that race to be one of high importance, something she knew she had to partake in. As for the current race of Connecticut Governor, she believes this race to be just as substantial.

“Although this race isn’t a presidential one, it is just as crucial. Students should be taking part in voting for Connecticut governor. Even if they don’t think their vote matters, it truly does.”

As a supporter of Democrat Ned Lamont, O’Neill encourages others to take a look into not only just Lamont’s political concerns, but to be educated on all the remaining candidates, such as Republican Bob Stefanowski and Independent candidate Oz Griebel.

Although O’Neill particularly supports Lamont’s political concerns such as gun laws, education laws, and investment in the LGBTQ community, it is just as critical for voters to learn the values of all the potential candidates.

“Even though I support Ned Lamont and many of his views, students and adults should know all the values that every single candidate promotes,” O’Neill said. “Even if you may not agree with them, it is still important to be educated on a political race that is happening in your state.”

Central students such as O’Neill are hoping that other students will become engaged with the Governor race and take advantage of their right to vote.

“I hope that the majority of the students at CCSU are registered to vote and take part in the race. Our votes make a difference.”