The Vice President’s race was closer than people realize. The official tally had Mike Kerns up by about 75 votes. What the official tally doesn’t tell you, however, is how much more of a tight race it would have been if Mike did not deploy his secret weapons:
Democracy for America, having previously endorsed Mike, worked throughout the night to get out the vote. DFA estimates that it persuaded upwards of 34 students who were either planning to sit the election out or were undecided to vote for Mike. That’s 34 confirmed new votes for Mike, and 34 is a conservative estimate.
Democracy for America was a significant factor in Mike’s success. DFA: We Get Shit Done.
Update- Mike responds:
There is no question in my mind that DFA-as an organization and as the members who comprise it-determined the outcome of my election.
Full letter under the fold…
Dear DFA,
I’m writing to convey my sincerest appreciation for your support this past Tuesday. There is no question in my mind that DFA-as an organization and as the members who comprise it-determined the outcome of my election. Among your individual support, public endorsement, personal impact and group campaigning on election night: YOU chose. Less than 80 votes separated Jordan and me in the final round, which means that if just 40 people had voted the other way I would not be your next vice-president. So I thank you for the powerful impact you have had on me, and I look forward to having a powerful impact on you and our community.I think you’ll be happy with the changes I intend to bring to the Union-and I will be seeking your input throughout the year. But before I leave off for now, I want to remind everyone about the upcoming 2nd round elections! I want YOU on my senate! If you are interested in running for any 2nd round positions (http://union.brandeis.edu/elections/SP08-2 … 2 senators at large, 2 class senators for every year, 5 justices of the judiciary…) or if you just want to sit down and chat about the Student Union or anything to do with the Brandeis community, please do not hesitate to contact me (before Sunday if its regarding elections!).Thank You Again,
Michael