Oxford, MS - (September 26, 2008) – – Despite a possible delay, the first 2008 presidential debate will take place this evening at the University of Mississippi. Ole Miss students polled this week validated Americans' concerns about the economy following news this week about a bailout plan, with more than half (55 percent) responding that the economy and jobs are the most important issues for them in deciding who they will vote for in this year's election. In fact, 70 percent of students called the election "the most important of their lifetime." Cellular South, the Mississippi-based wireless provider, partnered with the University of Mississippi to survey more than 1,000 students about the 2008 presidential race.
Like most Americans, young voters are concerned about the economic crisis, according to the survey. Nearly half of students polled (48 percent) say the economy is the most important issue facing their generation.
"The economy is on everyone's minds, and it's no different for young people," said Richard Forgette, professor and chair of the University of Mississippi Political Science Department. "For college students, it is especially relevant, as many will be entering the workforce for the first time and want to be assured there will be jobs available."
This election has been dubbed the "year of the youth vote," which Ole Miss students validated through the survey when 95 percent responded that they plan to vote on November 4. In addition, according to the survey, most Ole Miss students (49 percent) agree with some of the current administration's policies but believe changes need to be made.
Reflecting on the importance of the Internet and new media to the "millennial generation," 89 percent of students said their primary source of information for the election was the Internet and television, while fewer than one percent said they had not been following the election at all.
"Cellular South is overwhelmed by the response to this survey, and we are thrilled to provide these valuable insights from Ole Miss students," said Jim Richmond, director of Corporate Communications for Cellular South. "It truly validates the excitement around this year's election among young people."
The 10-question poll was designed by Southern Research Group for Cellular South and Ole Miss to gauge student perspectives on issues in the 2008 presidential race. Students used HTC Touch smart phones powered by Cellular South's high-speed 3G wireless data network to cast their votes during the week leading up to the first presidential debate at Ole Miss in Oxford, Miss.
To see the full results of the survey, visit www.cellularsouth.com/election2008.
About Cellular South
Cellular South is a privately-owned diversified mobile communications company passionately committed to helping customers get the most out of their wireless devices and services. The company accomplishes this goal by providing the most reliable and advanced 3G nationwide wireless voice and data network, offering industry-leading unlimited flat rate plans, and through its online and in-store Discover Centers, which give customers easy, simple and convenient tools, tips, advice and information to get the most out of their mobile phone. For more information, visit www.cellularsouth.com.
