Progressive candidate scheduled to speak at CSUF

By Meghan Volange

Arianna Huffington, candidate for governor of California, is coming to Fresno State this Friday and will speak in the Free Speech Area, starting at 12:30 p.m.

“ As a mother of two, Mrs. Huffington’s priorities are to promote education, environment and health care,” said Chris Rico, a campaign volunteer for Huffington.

She chose to come to Fresno State because Fresno has such a diverse community and the state chronically underpays education, he said.

Firmly opposed to Proposition 54, the candidate for governor of California feels that students aren’t having their say in the issue, Rico said.

“ She encourages students to go out there and take a stand for their rights—especially regarding student fees,” he said.

Huffington has raised more than $600,000 for her campaign. This was funded by private individuals and for the great majority, by her own Web site.

An author, columnist and TV personality, Huffington hopes to become governor to break big-money interests, offer voters an independent alternative and to “make it clear that George Bush’s reckless policies are the main cause of California’s current crisis.”