| |
Everyone
Loves "Hi"Deki
Could
his unconventional campaign pay off?
By Albert
Feng
Most people know of Hideki Tsutsumi, but few
know much about him. In the
complacent politics of MSA, he is more progressive than John McCain, more
optimistic than Bill Bradley, and has outlasted both candidates in his crusade
for MSA presidency. One can spot him anywhere — in the Diag, near bus stops,
or at the Commons. From time to time, he will put aside his large, simplistic
block-lettered sign to climb onto the nearby steps for an impromptu campaign
speech (whether anyone is listening seems inconsequential to him). It is hard to
imagine what motivates a man to carry a three by four feet sign everyday and
everywhere for ten months. In an exclusive interview, the Review
caught a glimpse into the inner workings of this resilient candidate and his
unorthodox campaign.
Unlike
most candidates for MSA presidency, Hideki is an international student, hailing
from Japan. When asked why he
stepped into the limelight from what is frequently perceived as a political
passive minority, he simply answered that he wanted change. Running on an
antiestablishment platform, Hideki is very critical of the complacency of the
MSA and the political parties. “Most
students have never met the candidates running for office, and some don’t even
know the name of the incumbent president.”
Because
his antiestablishment platform (and perhaps a lack of support and resources),
Hideki decided to adopt a very unorthodox campaign method in UM politics —
going out to meet people. For two hours each day, he has engaged in active
campaigning: shouting campaign slogans, giving speeches, and talking to random
strangers. He does not associate himself with any political party, nor has he
formed any personal support group; his campaign is a one-man crusade.
Hideki
started to campaign ten months before the elections because “the longer you
campaign, “ he revealed, “the more people are going to know and remember
you. My consistence also shows people my dedication and determination.”
Whether
Hideki’s strategy works, we will find out in two weeks time. But so far, his
person to person campaign has already influenced the Defend Affirmative Action
Party, whose candidate now also carries around a big sign.
Hideki
Tsutsumi’s campaign has certainly struck a chord with many students. Hideki
predicts that his campaign will increase voter turnout this year.
Indeed, with no party support and limited funds to campaign, Hideki will
have to rely on the support of those he rallied to win the election.
Will
Hideki win? “I think my chances are decent,” he said. “If I win the
election, I’ll flip my sign over and write ‘Hi Hideki MSA President’ so
anyone can talk to me about his concerns.”
Perhaps he is a bit too optimistic; like national
politics, successful insurgencies in MSA politics are rare. But whether Hideki
prevails or not, his campaign certainly has raised awareness of MSA politics,
and may in the long run improve MSA politicians’ responsiveness to the needs
of their constituency. 
|
