Democrats argue it was a step “forward” for our country, promising the benefits of fewer uninsured Americans. Republicans, on the other hand, view the act as a step “back”, sacrificing personal liberty while driving up the cost of health insurance for all Americans. According to Mayor Mike Bloomberg of New York City (a figurehead of the No Labels movement), there is an easy solution to reconciling our differing political beliefs.

Voting is a right that, as Americans, we are fortunately blessed with.

It stands to reason, therefore, that everyone should have equal opportunity to register to vote, right? Wrong. The Baylor Democrats, and other student political organizations, have been out on the front lines every election year trying to register people to vote, and they have met with success.

There’s an old joke that goes – Jews don’t recognize Jesus as the Messiah, Protestants don’t recognize the Pope as head of the church, and Baptists don’t recognize each other in the liquor store.

As funny and exaggerated as that last line is, it does hold an element of truth. In many areas of the Protestant faith, not only Baptist, there is a sort of “see no evil” mentality. A preacher can drink a beer after the ball game on Saturday as long as he serves grape juice for communion on Sunday.

juniors and seniors for you young whippersnappers — deserve to “live the good life” while ending their careers here at the good ol’ Baylor U.

In order to truly embrace the ignorant saying, “YOLO,” upperclassmen must be able to do as they please without the burdens of Baylor and its financial requirements.

Thankfully, a new wave of freshmen has come in to fill the void and care for them in their dotage.

They are, perhaps, the most dangerous words ever written:

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

As college students, we at the Lariat understand the difficulties inherent in balancing a budget. To allocate funds in one area sometimes means to leave another without.

However, some dues must be paid. It would be ridiculous to buy a new video game or a pair of high heels with money that should be used to pay an electricity bill. In this instance, it makes sense to skip the luxury items and pay your dues.