In an effort to encourage voter turnout among eligible voters ages 18 to 24, Lenda Sherrell, Democrat for Tennessee's 4th Congressional District 4, is partnering with Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) students today (October 29th) to hold a "MTSU Rock the Vote" day providing free transportation to the polls.

The pick up location will be at the student union where students can catch a ride between noon and 4 p.m. to cast their ballot on the day before the early vote period ends October 30. The non-partisan campus-wide event has been organized for all students who need a ride to and from the polls.

"Voting empowers people and it is one of the most important civic opportunities in our unique American democracy. With turnout rate among 18-to-24-year olds falling from 46 in 2008 to 41 percent in 2012, it is important to engage them so they have a voice in the issues that are important to them including college affordability, higher education funding, tuition costs, federal grants to attend college or university, student loan debt and funding for educational research institutions."

Student groups volunteering for the "MTSU Rock the Vote" event include: Kappa Xi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Eta Gamma Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Eta Psi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Young and Educated, Iota Tau Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Iota Mu Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, MTSU American Association of University Women, MTSU College Democrats, MTSU Generation of Praise Gospel Choir, No Red Light INC., The American Democracy Project, Collegiate 100 Black Men and Women of Middle Tennessee, Eta Phi Chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, and MTSU NAACP.

"This event provides an opportunity for every eligible student voter to conveniently cast a ballot amid busy class schedules and assignments. By getting to the polls, students can have an impact on policies that affect campus life, a political pipeline to our elected officials and a say on higher education issues affecting the country. As students, we are always impressed when candidates reach out to our youth populations which is often overlooked," said Brandon Woodruff, a 21-year-old senior majoring in political science and president of the Kappa Xi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

Sherrell's volunteers and supporters have actively registered students to vote for the upcoming general election.

"This 'MTSU Rock the Vote' event is an extension of our continued effort to engage voters of all ages so they can have a voice in shaping their futures," added Sherrell.

Source:

Lenda Sherrell for Congress