By Marissa Ferguson

ACU’s Young Republicans club kicked off the year with their first meeting last Thursday night. The group welcomed new members as they spoke about their mission, promoting student interest in government and politics.

President Aaron Escobedo said the club is already planning a Constitution Day on campus Sept. 17.

“We’re planning on hanging the Bill of Rights in the Campus Center,” Escobedo said, adding that there will also be a reading of the U.S. Constitution at the Gata Fountain.

As of now, the club is looking at service project opportunities on campus, but won’t finalize any decisions until they receive their budget.

“One of the best ways students can get involved is coming to our meetings and reaching out to people,” Escobedo said. “The republicans aren’t just rich folks that go to country clubs, but there are a lot of current students that care about what is going on.”

Stewart McGregor, freshman Christian ministry and political science major from Arlington, said he looks forward to sharing his conservative message on campus, especially with an election year upon voters.

“I think Young Republicans will strengthen my beliefs by being in community with other conservatives and sharing current events,” McGregor said. “I’m looking forward to bringing a conservative message to this campus. Hopefully, we’ll be able to show students how fiscally irresponsible the Democrat-controlled House and Senate is, and that with a conservative House and Senate we’ll be able to change D.C.”

To get involved, students are encouraged to visit the club’s Facebook page, ACU Young Republicans, or by contacting Dr. Neal Coates in the political science office.

“We’re looking forward to meeting students who are interested in Republican politics, who like to debate and want to get involved,” said Escobedo.

Meetings are scheduled every Thursday night at six p.m. in the Administration Building.

Club officials hope to see members actively involved in politics, as well as sharing their Christ-like attitude with the community.

“There’s so much going on it the U.S. Sometimes people see a lot of change and don’t do anything about it. Young Republicans gives them a chance to assess change by spreading a conservative message,” Escobedo said. “It’s more than that though, it’s about being Christians and spreading our philosophy.”