On Feb. 2, students gathered in Gold Room B of the Oakland Center for a political debate. The bi-partisan debate, hosted by the College Democrats and College Republicans, invited students of all backgrounds to engage in an evening of civil discourse. In stark contrast to the high levels of affective polarization that mar the social fabric of today’s society, the debate was lighthearted and offered a glimpse into the changing nature of political discussion on Oakland University’s campus.

The event opened up with a short period of mingling. Both groups mostly stuck to speaking to members of their respective organizations. However, by the ten-minute mark, with gentle prodding from College Republicans president Muhammed Smidi, the ice melted and both groups were willing to sit and chatter amicably. 

Kane Smith, the president of the College Democrats of Oakland University, began the meeting by introducing himself and Muhammed Smidi, the president of the College Republicans of Oakland University. 

As they went through the motions of debate, both groups found themselves agreeing more and seeing less difference between one another. Finally, Smidi and Smith had to break one of their own self-imposed rules and offer some devil’s advocate positions to spur on some friendly and good-natured debate. 

The event was a shining example of finding unity in the face of difference— something the founders themselves acknowledge and strive for. When asked to share their feelings on the event, Smidi said that the event was an incredible success.

 “It’s always a pleasure working with Muhhamed,” Smith said.

This is not the first collaboration from the duo. Smith and Smidi began their collaboration with a small watch party event for the debate between Governor Ron DeSantis and Governor George Newsome this past November. The young upstarts from both organizations found themselves working well together.

Where the methodical and eager Smith fell short, the charismatic and chivalrous Smidi was there to pick up the slack, and vice versa. Even when talking with them, the pair worked as a fine-tuned machine, often finishing the others’ thoughts without a moment of hesitation–almost to a point where one could forget that they were ever from diametrically opposed factions, to begin with. 

Both leaders admit that their ability to look past their ideological differences to work together makes them stronger, setting a precedent for other political organizations on campus. 

“We [Muhhamed and Kane] even saw in the event, where people who traditionally only align with one side couldn’t even predict where they were going to stand because of how much we saw common ground and shared a perspective. I sincerely wish and hope other organizations would work with us to increase civil dialogue,” Smidi said.

President Smith agreed with Smidi’s remarks.

 “I definitely think we’re setting positive precedent, not only on campus, but off campus as well. I have a lot of contacts within the Michigan Federation of College Democrats, I’m on their executive board as well, and almost every other campus compliments us on the events we hold, including the events both Muhhamed and I hold. I’ve noticed that since we’ve started doing these events, I’ve seen more events at the University of Michigan and Michigan State,” Smith said.

If you would like to join either organization, you can find both on GrizzOrgs. The College Democrats of Oakland University meets every other Friday. You can reach out at [email protected]. 

The College Republicans of Oakland University meets once a month on Wednesdays. You can reach out to find their meeting for the month via GrizzOrgs, or via [email protected].