CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – Chris Everett and TJ Edwards, the candidates for Student Body President this year, both focused on bringing students into student government in their debate responses Wednesday night.
Everett, who currently serves as the Deputy Chief of Staff in the Vann Administration, focused on his previous work in student government, and the relationships he has built with student organizations on campus. Edwards says that they are outsiders and wants to fix what they see as a disconnect between student government and students.
When asked about crime on campus, Everett and Edwards advocated for the installation of cameras on the outside of residence halls. Edwards says that they want to develop a ridesharing system where students would give rides to other students.
Edwards, who was diagnosed with autism in 2021, says that the requirement for a formal diagnosis is an undue barrier for students that need accommodations. Everett says that he would work with student organizations to push for more first floor accessible rooms if elected.
Both candidates said that they would work with the Board of Trustees and the General Assembly to bring change to UNC. Everett said that he would advocate for accessibility, multiculturalism, and mental health awareness to the Board of Trustees.
Everett would also advocate for higher salaries for housekeepers. Edwards went even further, saying that housekeeper pay should be raised, and that the movement should be run in parallel with one to raise the minimum wage for all student workers to $15 an hour with inflation protections.
Both candidates spoke at length about bringing students into the process. Everett said that he would “share the podium” with students if elected several times throughout the debate. He also said that he would make sure everyone was seen.
Edwards emphasized that they are activists and would work closely with students if elected. They also said that he has always been outside of an administration that he thinks is bad, and pointed out that Everett is part of it.
In their closing remarks, Edwards said that he would focus on creating a better system for students and would listen and ask questions. Everett said that student voices have built his campaign, and that he has the experience and knowledge of the institutions at UNC.
Election day is Feb. 21. Students can vote online on HeelLife.