Associated Students Inc. is investigating why four presidential candidates dropped out, leaving one candidate, James Ahumada, in the race.
The hearing at the ASI Senate Chamber discussed the complaint filed by Jason Aula — a former presidential candidate who is now running for treasurer — against the ASI board of elections and Ahumada.
Former candidates include ASI Vice President Omar Gonzales, ASI Attorney General Paxcley Marquez, student Avis Atkins and Aula.
Aula argued that Gonazales’ and Paxcley’s decision to drop out of the race was done to secure Ahumada’s position as president. Both Ahumada and Gonzales are members of the Phi Tau Fraternity. Aula also accused the ASI board of elections of running an unethical campaign and allowing only one candidate to run.
“It’s not a democratic process if only one candidate runs,” Aula said.
An ASI board of elections representative stated that filing for candidacy is required to enter the election but does not bind a candidate to stay in until the end. The representative said that students who drop out of the race primarily do so because of a heavy workload or an upcoming graduation.
The ASI Judiciary advised Aula to present proof if a conspiracy is taking place and to base the case on facts.
“You need to bring more facts to the table,” Associate Justice Sarah Elsheikh told Aula. “Perhaps you would like to reword your case.”
The board will review the presidential candidates’ reasons for dropping out before coming to a final decision. The board said that unless Aula provides enough evidence, Ahumada is still a qualified presidential candidate.