College Dems Elect New Leaders

Looking forward to potential gains in Congress, the Harvard College Democrats elected new leaders this week who promised to mobilize the campus for next year’s midterm elections.

“It’s time to light a bonfire,” president-elect Eric P. Lesser ’07 told The Crimson shortly after his victory. “It’s a pivotal time for Democrats especially. We’re used to losing, but this will not be the case in 2006.”

Lesser prevailed over Magdey A. Abdallah ’07 after addressing more than 100 Dems Monday night in the Kennedy School of Government’s Starr Auditorium. In a subsequent vote, Matthew T. Bosch ’07 was chosen as vice-president over Abdallah.

The votes were preceded by speeches from each candidate and their supporters. Outgoing president Gregory M. Schmidt ’06 acted as moderator.

Both presidential candidates said they would reach out to alums and organize student trips to key states before next year’s midterm elections.

Lesser, this year’s projects director, advocated the establishment of an alumni board to fund internships and guide Dems, and promised to unify club members.

“Each of you knows the importance of politics,” he said. “Each of you knows the potential of politics for change.”

Abdallah, who served as campus outreach director this year, focused on the importance of communication within the group.

“The political vision I now have is a result of the conversation with the people here,” Abdallah said in his speech. “It’s important to be able to make personal connections with the people who you’re leading.”

In his vice-presidential speech, Bosch stressed his experience this year as the Dems’ treasurer and said he would involve more members-at-large in the group’s activities.

“It’s important that we have centralized goals for the Harvard Dems, but also maintain opportunities for the individuals,” Bosch said.

Abdallah went on to be chosen as membership director. Results for other positions included Harlan M. Piper ’08 as treasurer, Brigit M. Helgen ’08 as campaigns director, Michael J. Arth ’08 as legislative director, Raquel O. Alvarenga ’08 as political director, Hayley J. Fink ’08 as communications director, Erika C. Helgen ’08 as events director, and Jillian K. Swencionis ’08 as secretary.