Associated Student Government Vice President Jeff Vela re-opened ASG election intent forms Mar. 6 in an effort to fill all senate seats. The move also has the potential to prevent candidates from running unopposed, as some currently are.

“After consulting with the ASG Supreme Court justices, I have decided to re-open intent to run forms to the student body so more people can declare candidacy for different positions. All positions will be re-opened,” Vela said in a statement to the senate, ASG candidates and students of Colorado Mesa University.

Vela said there’s no need for confirmed candidates to suspend their campaign efforts before intent forms close again. Candidates that have already signed their agreements may continue to campaign through the duration of the campaign season.

As the election chairman, and more importantly, vice president of the student body, it is my duty to do what is in the best interests of all students at CMU,” Vela said. “It is also in the best of my interest to ensure the future of leaders in ASG by fulfilling a fully elected senate going into the next year.”

Seats that are not filled through the election process will be filled by appointment next year. Vela said filling the seats through election better represents students.

“Elected office is a special and unique experience, in which I have been fortunate to obtain while at CMU,” Vela said. “In order to best represent the needs of students and this campus, I know it is imperative to have a fully elected senate going into the new year.”

The re-opened intent to run forms will remain open until Mar. 18.