Day 2: Democratic Party, Black History Parade, Nikki Haley Bus Stop Tour

Today we went to the Aiken County Democratic Party to learn more about the county demographics, voter concerns, what motivates citizens to vote, what are the goals of the Democratic Party, and to answer any student questions. Theresa and Pete were really patient and answered all our questions, and offered really great insight. We also were in Aiken for the Black History Month Parade. It was a fantastic time, and our peers, Nathan and Steven, even participated in the parade!

We then went over to Irmo, South Carolina for Nikki Haley's bus stop tour to listen to her speech. It is a grassroots event that is happening around South Carolina to reach local voters to motivate them to get out and vote. Dr. JSM arranged for us to meet and get a picture with Haley after the event. It was definitely interesting to attend an event and listen to a speaker from the Republican Party as someone who has previously always attended and interned for the Democratic Party. I even got interviewed by a University of Southern California student for their article on the Haley event, which is something I had not done before so that made me feel nervous but I also tried my best to engage with the interviewer to the best of my ability.

It was a long day, but it was versatile and full of new and exciting experiences.

Aiken County Democratic Party

Black History Month Parade

Nikki Haley Bus Stop event in Irmo, SC

Aiken County Democratic Party

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Post SC Roundtable

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USF Road to the White House 2024 - Lana Sleiman

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