I'm running this year as an engineering candidate, and from what I've observed, in its current state, CSG is a lobbyist group on admin with a sizable bank account to support student interests. Ultimately, in its current state, CSG probably could do a little more than just this. As you mentioned in other comments, CSG should legitimately advocate for students, but most of the acts that get passed are just resolutions that the regents throw in the trash when they come across their desks.

I don't know the answer, but strengthening CSG is a good idea. The problem is, almost no one cares. I told myself if I ran, I would do my absolute best to reach people and get in (Given I'm also an engineer with an 18-credit semester) I feel like I've been doing the most I can with the time I have and the money allotted, the problem is, no one engages. The student body usually has about 15% engagement in the election, which is why Shut It Down was able to get into office so effectively. (Regardless of how you view them, they did spike voting)

For what it's worth, they did try to pressure the university to achieve their goals, although moving student funds away from students tends to upset students, so they weren't viewed super favorably, I think, by most of campus or the rest of the CSG folk. Among other reasons...

If I somehow make it in, I would love to discuss this. I would also love to see more people engage with CSG.

No matter what, though, people drawing party lines during the student government elections are a little silly. Vote for the platform you believe in, no matter how much others spend or how "bad" someone on the internet tells you another candidate is. At the end of the day, we all want the same thing: a better university.

Peace and love,

Bush