Candidates running for Associated Students, Inc., positions started debating on Tuesday. The debates began with the executive board and will continue throughout the week.

The format for yesterday and today?s debates consists of an opening statement, questions from the moderator and a closing statement by each candidate running for a specific position. After each group of candidates has completed the debates, questions will be taken from the audience if time permits.

“The past debates have not been successful at all. However, this year, with 44 candidates running from every facet of this campus, will be the year when it all changes. I feel this year?s debates will be effective,” said Hans Weichhart, presidential candidate for Support US. “The debates will give the student body a better idea of who truly represents them.”

The candidates were given a series of questions that will be addressed at this week?s debates. The questions were specifically written for each candidate?s position.

“I think the questions cover fair representation of student advocacy, as if the organization is probing to find the right candidate who will make ASI do what it was originally meant to do: represent the students,” Weichhart said.

Running on Artemio Pimentel?s Vision slate for executive vice president is Eric Guerra. Guerra also believes that debates in the past have not been productive.

“I think with Lobby Corps helping this year, there may be a better chance for a successful debate, however, they haven?t been exploiting as much as they should be,” Guerra said. “I think the questions given to the candidates insult the intelligence of the students running. The questions are wasting the time of the candidates. The questions are valid, but something better should have been written.”

Students are highly encouraged to attend all of the debates.

“Attending the debates gives students the opportunity to see and hear each candidate and where they may stand,” said Calvin Davis, the vice president of University Affairs candidate for Vision.

The format of the debates will consist of a three-minute opening statement, a one-minute answer to each of the two questions and a two-minute closing statement. The candidates will also receive a question and answer session from the audience.

Today?s debate will be from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Riverfront Patio for candidates running for the University Union Board of Director positions.