Los Angeles, CA – Today, at the September 24th meeting of the USG Senate, Chief Justice Susanna Andryan announced Ali Bhatti and John Breitfelder as the winners of the Fall 2024 USG Special Elections.
A total of 987 votes were cast, with Ali Bhatti securing 235 votes and John Breitfelder receiving 177.
This Special Election process included new opportunities for candidates, including open office hours for candidates to learn more about the election process and an invitation from Chief Justice Andryan to observe a Senate meeting.
Chief Justice Andryan was heartened by the voter turn-out, noting that last November’s special election garnered only 674 votes. She stated, “The Judicial Council is hopeful that this momentum will carry forward to our general election in the Spring, and we’re excited to begin preparations.”
Senators-elect Bhatti and Breitfelder will fill the two vacant seats in the Senate, joining current Senators Diana Carpio, Elija Martice Barnes, Mikaela Bautista, Jeremiah Boisrond, Jackalyn Karamanougian, Patrick Nguyen, Seva Raman, Dane Sprague, Brandon Tavakoli and Heydy Vasquez.
Senator-elect Ali Bhatti is a sophomore from Chattanooga, Tennessee who studies Business Administration. In his campaign platform, he outlined a desire to revitalize food options on campus, improve student accessibility, and expand library hours.
Senator-elect John Breitfelder studies Business Administration and is a transfer student at USC. Breitfelder campaigned on issues relating to increasing student transportation options, improving RSO support, and bettering opportunities for students on campus.
“With the addition of Senators-elect Bhatti and Breitfelder, the 2024 Senate class is complete,” said USG Vice President Brianna Sanchez. “We look forward to a positive and productive year in the Senate as we continue to enhance the student body experience, pass proactive legislation, and implement new projects.”
The USG Senate meets every Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. in TCC 450 (Tutor Forum).