Student Government Candidates Debate Wages, Safety and Inclusivity at TXST

By Lizbeth Hernandez

News Reporter

SAN MARCOS- Candidates running for student government president and vice president proposed a range of ideas aimed at benefiting Texas State University students during last Monday’s presidential debate at 6 p.m.

One of the primary concerns discussed was raising student worker wages. The current minimum wage for student workers is $7.25 per hour, which aligns with the federal minimum wage. The issue was raised multiple times, including during the audience Q&A session. One student noted that other universities, such as UTSA, pay $13 per hour, while UT pays a minimum of $14 per hour.

Candidates representing the “Bobcats for Progress” campaign, Kristian Beluso for president and Theia Gunn for vice president, proposed raising student worker wages to approximately $20 per hour.

“Hays County minimum wage $22.59 an hour, livable wage rather and $20 and hour is obviously under it, and it would still be a big jump. And we need to be bold in achieving our goals.” Said Beluso.

Other candidates expressed skepticism about the feasibility of funding such an increase.

“Bobcats in Bloom” candidates Johanna Ajayi, running for president, and Keller Hammack, running for vice president, emphasized the limitations of student government authority.

“That’s a lot of money to try to get, especially for something that is obviously very important, but that’s also something that student government is not in charge of.” Said Ajayi.

They proposed an alternative approach that would allow students to work limited hours in other departments or services at higher pay rates if those areas are understaffed.

Campus safety was another major topic of discussion. Beluso and Gunn proposed establishing a night walk program to accompany students traveling on campus late at night, as well as reinstating Bobcat Safe Rides, a transportation service for on- and off-campus travel.

Candidates from the “New Horizon” campaign, Seth Huteson for president and Nathan Marquez for vice president, highlighted concerns about blind spots on campus. They proposed adding more security cameras and lighting to improve nighttime safety.

Ajayi noted that the current student government is already working to install additional lighting and cameras on campus. She also discussed an initiative focused on promoting freedom of speech and educating students about their rights.

Inclusivity was another key issue addressed during the debate. Several candidates said they plan to build diverse cabinets to better represent the student body.

“Because I don’t know all the problems that every single student faces, I don’t know all the issues or stipulations that people are in but having a diverse cabinet with people bringing up to my attention.” Said Ajayi.

Candidates also emphasized support for international and immigrant students, as well as advocacy for sanctuary policies, stating those priorities would be reflected in their leadership teams.

Building stronger relationships with the city of San Marcos was also discussed. Huteson said he plans to schedule regular meetings with City Council members and local administrators.

The debate concluded around 8:30 p.m., with candidates expressing confidence in their performances.

Beluso said he felt confident in delivering his campaign’s key points.

“I feel exactly how I did before the debate,” Huteson said. “I am still Seth, and the sun is still shining.”

Ajayi said she felt good about the debate and believed each candidate clearly communicated their platform, particularly on inclusivity and diversity.