UNLV students await Dems debate

CNNU campus correspondent Melissa Torres is a senior broadcast journalism student at UNLV. CNNU is a feature that provides student perspectives on news and trends from colleges across the United States. The views expressed in this article are not necessarily those of CNN, its affiliates or the schools where the campus correspondents are based.

LAS VEGAS, Nevada (CNN) -- A buzz is in the air as University of Nevada students anxiously wait to attend the Democratic debate on Thursday night.

The Democratic debate on the UNLV campus is attracting students subscribing to positions spanning the political spectrum.

Students described their political concerns and what they hope to see in the debate hosted by CNN and the Nevada Democratic Party at 5 p.m. (8 p.m. ET)

Jonathan Horner

Professional Golf Management junior and Democrat

"I am excited to see what unfolds at the debate. I really want to know the ideas that each candidate has for plans on getting us out of the war. This situation isn't getting any better, we are still losing people. Something needs to be done now."

Trent Hansen

Pre-Med Biology senior and Democrat

"It's great that there are so many political campaigns going on here at school. They are really trying to get students involved. Usually the media aims at older people to try and get their votes. I think it's good that they are interacting and really promoting themselves to the younger generations -- we have a voice too."

Jennifer Smith

Entertainment Management senior and Independent

"I think its good for students to understand what's going on. The ONE concert is for a good cause because they are raising money for global issues. ... I don't see why they are hyping up this debate so much when there have been many at UNLV."

Chemish Fisher

Communications senior and Democrat

"I am excited about the debate. This is my first one. It's a milestone. When is the last time a woman ran for president? ... It seems like every year the political season gets a little more like Christmas. The election seems a lot like the holiday shopping season: Every time it comes around it gets a little longer so it can profit from itself being longer."

Sione Norsingle

Liberal Arts sophomore and Republican

"Whoever fights to become president should focus on a comprehensive immigration reform. They should also not try and make this a socialist society --where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer." E-mail to a friend

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