by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
Supervisor of Elections John Stafford, who was joined by representatives from the City Council and the mayor’s office, announced plans Tuesday to host a Mock Convention in February at the Osborn Center.
The three-day event calls for the participation of approximately 1,500 high school and college students in Jacksonville who will represent different states and send student delegates to build party platforms, hear from the presidential candidates and nominate the Republican and Democratic candidates for the 2004 presidential election.
According to Stafford, the reforms brought about by 2000 general election served as the impetus behind the convention.
“One of the most important changes is the realization that voter education is an essential ingredient of successful election,” said Stafford. “But the entire community must take responsibility to ensure our students receive a healthy education about the American political process.”
Stafford also announced the appointment of Preston Haskell, president and CEO of the Haskell Company, to serve as the chair of the Mock Convention Executive Board. Mayor John Peyton will serve as honorary chair.
“I am excited and pleased with the enthusiasm and interest Mayor Peyton, Preston Haskell and the other who have genuinely made a commitment of the success of the convention,” said Stafford who expected to see an increase in voter registration as a result of the convention.
Budgeted at $90,000, Stafford said the convention will be partially funded by the Supervisor of Election’s Office education budget — approximately $30,000 — with the rest coming from private donations.
Stafford said about $16,000 has already been committed and added scholarship opportunities will likely become available once operating costs have been covered.
“Our mission is to encourage elected officials and candidates to address young students as viable members of the voting population, thereby fostering active voting habits in the 18- to 25-year-old demographic,” said Stafford. “We want the youth of America to know that their votes do count and that the elected officials care.”