Latest Fourth Estate Articles

Polls have officially closed as of 7:00 p.m. Fourth Estate will continue posting live election coverage as results get announced.

 

Voters Reflect as Polls Close in Fairfax  Fairfax residents share their thoughts on the campaign season and the voting process

BY RITHVIK HARI, STAFF WRITER

 

7:55 p.m.: As polls closed at 7 p.m., the final wave of voters made their way into Fairfax City Hall to cast their ballots before the deadline. For many, the end of the campaign season prompted reflection on their choices and what influenced their votes.

 

“The campaign cycle and everything that has come out about the candidates over the last few months has really made me think about who is the best fit to represent us in Richmond,” said one voter.

 

Party supporters outside Fairfax City Hall noted there has been a steady stream of voters throughout the entire day. One noted that although there were people constantly walking in, there was never a line inside. However, they did mention that it did not seem as busy as previous elections.

 

Peter Robinson, a voter, said, “My research of the candidates consisted of half of it from the news, like FOX News, CNN. The other half was from TikTok. So, it was pretty half and half and I think the person I voted for is a good candidate.” 

 

As a first-time voter, Robinson said he had a good experience and was able to go through the whole process within a few minutes.

 

“There are 250 years of sacrifices to make sure we can vote in this country, so I encourage everybody to honor those sacrifices by coming out and voting on election day,” said Devin Perry, a Fairfax resident.

 

Staff at the Fairfax Registrar’s Office began collecting and processing ballots, marking the end of another election season in Fairfax.

 

(Katie Perschau / Fourth Estate)

Virginians Cast Final Votes at Daniels Run Elementary Polling Station Human rights issues drive voters to the polls in the final hour of election day 

BY KATIE PERSCHAU, CULTURE EDITOR

 

7:30 p.m.: As the Daniels Run Elementary School polling precinct entered the final stretch of election day, a steady current of voters cast votes before the polls close at 7 p.m. 

 

As volunteers began collecting campaign signs and folding tables, voters just getting off of work  rushed from the parking lot to the voting booths before the 7 p.m. cut-off. 

 

According to poll workers, 955 people voted at Daniels Run as of 6 p.m. Worker Dena Ellison said crowds remained steady throughout the day. 

 

Voters at the precinct stressed the importance of a state government that ensures the protection of civil liberties.

 

“One of my friends. She wants to get married with her … partner. And I think that’s what drove me [to the polls], because I know that [Republican gubernatorial candidate Winsome Earle-Sears]… she’s against gay marriage,” said voter Alejandra Garcia. 

 

Another voter, Alex Hikmat, said, “Immigration stuff as a whole is kind of… You know, it’s a lot right now. So I just want to vote for candidates that are like, more lenient, I guess, towards immigrants.” 

 

State Delegate David Bulova, of the Va. 11th district, who has been going from precinct to precinct throughout the day to thank and greet voters, urged student voters to use their voice to improve the standards of higher education in Virginia. He said today’s election will set the direction for Virginia’s education systems for generations. 

 

“It’s important that we have…[Democratic gubernatorial candidate Abigail] Spanberger in office, because the governor is the one who makes the appointments to the George Mason University … Boards of Visitors, and those are the people who set the policy and academic standards for the institution,” said Bulova. 

 

Only poll volunteers remained at the precinct when polls closed across the state.

(Emma G. Schaible / Fourth Estate)

Voting Slows, Passion Does Not Fairfax voters are still making sure their voices are heard

BY EMMA G. SCHAIBLE, NEWS EDITOR

 

6:20 p.m.: As the afternoon round of voters started, issues of SNAP benefits, immigration and the Ukraine war were issues voters used to determine their decisions. While voting slowed down briefly in the afternoon at the Fairfax Presbyterian Church, the Chief Elections Officer for Precinct 1, Jeff White, continued to talk to Fourth Estate. 

 

White has been working in election administration in Fairfax for the last 10 years, and he wants more young people to be willing to get involved. He elaborates that it “shouldn’t just be people my age” working on elections. 

 

Voting has been made accessible to adapt to people’s needs: there are numerous ways for people who might be unable to physically get to the polls to vote, including mail-in ballots, early voting and even curbside voting on the day of the election, a few of which White helped administer today. 

 

White explained that voting is easy, and that you only have to “make sure you get registered — there are deadlines for things like this.” 

 

Volunteers from the Abigail Spanberger campaign handed out Democratic sample ballots and informational flyers. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., no other campaign was present at the polling place.

 

A voter who chose not to identify themselves, but has worked in education for thirty years, explains that their biggest voting issue was the “current way they are deporting people… If someone is contributing to the community… they should have an easier way to become a citizen.” 

 

Ryan Thomas, a member of the community for the last ten years, thinks that Abigail Spanberger ran the strongest campaign as she tackled issues like “stopping the Trump agenda,” which was his biggest voting issue.

 

Voters continue to arrive with their friends, children and even dogs.

 

(Davon Marion / Fourth Estate)

Voters Talk Jay Jones Controversy, Abortion and Voter Identification ‘I would have voted for Mickey Mouse before … Miyares’

BY ISABELLA PEARLSTEIN, STAFF WRITER

 

6:00 p.m.: Since 2 p.m., the steady stream of voters at Fairfax High School slowed to a trickle.

 

Gregory Pati, when asked about the controversy surrounding Democratic Attorney General candidate Jay Jones and whether that had an impact on his vote, stated, “I would have voted for Mickey Mouse before I would’ve [voted] for Mr. Miyares.”

 

(Davon Marion / Fourth Estate)

Pati, who voted for a straight Democratic ticket, mentioned abortion as an important issue he considered at the ballot box. 

 

“I think women have a right to make those kinds of choices. They’re family choices; they don’t belong to the state,” he said.

 

Voters still expressed why the election was important for them. 

 

“This is the first chance that we have to send a message both statewide and nationwide on how we feel about the current situation,” Mike Bass said.

 

Bass continued expressing one of the issues that concerned him was Winsome Earle-Sears’ stance on transgender athletes and transgender girls using the women’s restroom. 

 

“I know [Earle-Sears] feels very strongly against not having [transgender people] a welcome population in our schools, or at least for regulations to be kind of anti [transgender rights]. I’m not okay with that,” he said.

 

Francis Dietz, who voted for Earle-Sears, John Reid and Jason Miyares, expressed concern that if Democrats won there would be issues with identifying voters. 

 

“As I walked in, I pulled my ID out of my wallet, and I thought exactly to myself that next time I vote, if the Democrats get in, I probably wouldn’t have to [show my ID],” he said.

 

One voter, Gabor Stoll, shared why he voted for all Democrats. 

 

“I want my health insurance. I’m scared I’m gonna lose my health insurance,” he said.

 

A family wearing “Winsome” T-shirts arrived ready to vote and shared what issue was most pressing for them, “One issue that I most identify with the Republicans versus Democrats, [is] that we are pro life. We are very much in favor of fostering and adoption and the Democrats unfortunately, even compared to when I was kid, they don’t make room for that position in their party.”

 

Around 2:45 p.m., uncontested and incumbent candidate for Treasurer of the City of Fairfax, Tom Scibilia, arrived to greet voters and mingle, staying until 4 p.m.

(Sam Douglas / Fourth Estate)

Voters talk about candidates’ past records and education concerns Schools are a focus for Democratic and Republican voters

BY JOSEPH TRIOLO, STAFF WRITER

 

3:50 p.m.: In the coverage of the autumn-colored trees, voters assembled to share their voices through the ballot box at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church. Some voters chose to stop and share some of their opinions after voting on the issues they found most important and why they found this election to be important.

 

James Souther shared that his most important issue was a candidate who would focus on Virginia. 

 

“I believe that the current lieutenant governor [Winsome Earle-Sears] didn’t bring anything to the table that was specific to Virginia. I think that that candidate is more interested in the wider social issues that are kind of completely in our face all the time, that didn’t say anything about Virginia, whereas Spanberger talked about Virginia, and that’s what I’m voting for,” he said.

 

One of these issues Souther voted for was funding for education.

 

“You know, we’re going to have some budgetary issues with the Department of Education … I have one child that’s still in public school, and I want them to be able to maintain the level of Fairfax County Schools [that is] really good, and I want them to maintain that level of excellence,” Souther said.

 

For voter Douglas Schauss, voting for a Republican ticket was most important, as he disliked Democratic candidate Abigail Spanberger. He said voters “don’t need a CIA cut-out for a governor.” 

 

He further said he found Winsome Earle-Sears’ position on schools important. 

 

“School boards are allowing guys in girls bathrooms, guys to be on women’s sports teams and stuff like that,” Schauss said. “I believe that’s … not right, and Winsome has pledged to make that right.”

 

Voter Meredith Lee, a Fairfax County Public Schools middle school teacher and mother of two children in public school, said she viewed education as the most important issue. 

 

“I’m hoping that we keep having the ability to strive for excellence while supporting students of all needs and ability. And then I’m hoping that there are some changes put in place that help that to happen,” she said. 

 

Lee said she thinks a lot of people in the education world are hoping for a positive change this election. 

 

Fairfax City Hall Provides Halfway Voter Turnout Numbers Hundreds of voters have cast their ballots at City Hall

BY ALEXANDRA HENRIQUES, STAFF WRITER

 

3:30 p.m.: As of noon, City Hall voting officials reported that 265 people had cast their votes at the location since the polls opened at 6 a.m. This number does not include mail-in ballots dropped off during the day. 

 

A representative from the Fairfax City Democrats said that City Hall sees less voters on Election Day than other polling locations due to their status as an early-voting location. 

 

According to the representative, most people in the neighborhood cast their ballots before Election Day for convenience. 

 

Voter traffic continued to be slow between noon and 2 p.m., with almost no lines and voters exiting the building within minutes of entering. 

 

An issue that has remained in voters’ minds is the current government shutdown. 

 

“I am really concerned and hope the Virginia state government helps take care of the federal workers who are going through a really tough time right now… Just making sure that people can, you know, afford groceries and people who are working without pay or getting furloughed can actually stay afloat,” Va. resident Meryl Flaherty said. 

 

(Joel Aguilar / Fourth Estate)

Midday Voters Continue Heading to Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center City of Fairfax professionals and retirees vote for next Va. governor

BY JOEL AGUILAR, STAFF WRITER

 

3:10 p.m.: At Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center, there are a wide variety of people showing up at the polls. Both Republican and Democrat volunteers stand outside the entrance giving out sample ballots and talking to voters. 

 

A steady flow of voters came in and out of the Community Center, all of different ages, professions, and political affiliation. This high voter turnout is mostly fueled by the gubernatorial race between Abigail Spanberger and Winsome Earle-Sears.This race has been increasingly competitive between the 2 candidates, both campaigning on issues that hit Fairfax residents close to home. 

 

Spanberger is focused on reducing the cost of living and improving the Virginian economy, while Sears is focused on crime and taxes. Both of these candidates would be the first female governor in Virginian history. Additionally, other positions like the attorney general, lieutenant governor, and a seat in the Va. House of Delegates are also on the ballot.  

 

Sam, a 26 year-old government contractor, shows up to every election he can. Unfortunately, this election was very similar to others he went to in the past,leaving him dissatisfied with all the candidates on the ballot. For Sam, this election came down to who he disliked less.

 

“I really don’t like [Sears’] rhetoric, I really don’t like her views, and I don’t like Spanberger but I don’t like her less than I like Winsome,” Sam said. 

 

In recent elections, many voters have been dissatisfied with the candidates featured on the ballots, often not feeling connected to any specific policy or goals. These feelings toward candidates lead many potential voters to turn away from politics and not cast a ballot, causing decreased voter turnout.

 

Despite this, Sam said he believes in the importance of voting. To him, no matter what your stance is, the candidate who gets elected on the local level will directly impact people’s lives. He said the state and local legislature has the power to change the day to day life of Fairfax residents much more than people realize. 

 

This belief pushes him to attend every election, especially local ones.

 

“A lot of people say ‘I don’t do politics.’ That’s fine, but politics are going to do you,” he said, explaining that candidates on the ballot directly affect the laws and politics at the local level.

 

A number of people have called for Va. Attorney General to sue the federal government . This comes after a number of states have sued for reform or protection from federal intervention on issues like abortion, immigration and the presence of the National Guard in cities like D.C. 

 

Some voters have criticized Va. Governor Glenn Youngkin for his lack of involvement in  lawsuits against the federal government..

 

Ethan Spring, a high school physics teacher, is very disgruntled with the current federal administration and the current governor, Glenn Youngkin. Ethan is specifically upset with the treatment of federal workers, like his wife, and transgender students at his school. According to FFXNow, over the past four years Fairfax County Public Schools have faced increased pressure to make it harder for transgender students to express their preferred gender identity. 

 

Policies from Youngkin and the federal government have pushed for changes like preventing students from going to the bathroom based on their gender identity and forcing schools to have a “biological-based” definition of male and female. Spring is very passionate about ending a persecution of trans students which he believes is baseless and leading to a negative or even dangerous school environment for them.

 

“The general attack on trans students is something I see causing harm every day,” Spring said.

 

Many retired voters feel disconnected from the current election. Without working and already having enough money to thrive, many retirees aren’t affected by the current state of the economy or policy changes on the local level. 

 

Charlie, a retired Fairfax resident, came out to support the Republican candidates, but ultimately didn’t see any impact on himself. While he is passionate about crime and the social stances of the candidates, he was ultimately apathetic to either candidate.

 

“I don’t know if it affects me directly, but I’m retired. I don’t have to worry about anything,” he said.

 

Some other retired voters are voting for the sake of younger generations. They are choosing their preferred candidate in the hopes that their policies will aid their children or grandchildren. 

 

These policies include more affordable living expenses and  increased federal aid in programs like SNAP and FAFSA. 

 

Brian, another retired resident, said he believes that the current state of the federal government and politics as a whole is concerning and believes that this local election can help defend his democratic ideals. 

 

 “It was hard for me growing up, but I think it’s harder for my kids. I think that moving towards autocracy and oligarchy is not a good environment for my grandkids,” he said.

 

(Isabella Pearlstein / Fourth Estate)

Voters Head to Fairfax High School to Exercise Their Constitutional Right Democratic values, education, rights, government benefits, and the shutdown on voters’ minds

BY ISABELLA PEARLSTEIN, STAFF WRITER

 

2:55 p.m.: Since 6:40 a.m., there has been a steady stream of voters walking in and out of Fairfax High School. Some dressed for work and others dressed in sweats, with some holding travel mugs getting their day started. 

 

As the day has progressed more and more people have arrived to cast their vote in today’s election. Many voters have also arrived with their children in tow.

 

Several people have expressed why today’s election is important to them. One Republican voter, Steve Fisher, said he believes Virginia is on the correct path and wants to “maintain the thrust forward.” 

 

“I think a lot of good things are happening in the state, and I’d like to see them continue,” Fisher said. 

 

Dan Paul is another voter who believes Va. is going in the right direction. 

 

“I think the Democratic Party has lost its view. I can’t stand for anything they stand for. And I don’t think they’re working in our best interest,” Paul said.

 

Another voter, Juan Carlos Morales, believes this election is important because democracy is on the line. 

 

“[We’ve been] at siege, basically, since the Trump administration has taken over. So it’s important that we all vote Democratic if we want to free democracy in our country,” Morales said. 

 

Many of the voters who spoke shared similar sentiments.

 

One voter, Jessica Dickinson, a student at Northern Virginia Community College, was concerned about government support for universities and colleges. 

 

“I’m a little worried about the accreditation stuff that’s happening with not having the government backup colleges anymore,” Dickinson said.

 

Other voters expressed concerns over the rights of other people. 

 

“For me it’s really about making sure that everybody has rights. I feel like this is one of the last places where we can be like ‘this [is] our stand.’ These are our rights, and we’re gonna keep them,” said Monica Torres.

 

Susan Sproul expressed her concerns: “We’ve missed the middle guy. We’ve missed the common man. You know we’re trying to take care of 1% or 0.05% of the population. I want that. But when you leave 98% of the population behind that’s not good either.” 

 

5,128 registered voters had voted as of Monday, in-person and mail in, according to the Secretary of the City of Fairfax Electoral Board. 

 

A few voters brought up the ongoing government shutdown as motivation to head to the ballot box. 

 

“People are out of work. People aren’t able to get their government assistance, which means children are starving because their parents aren’t able to get food because the job they have isn’t paying them enough or they’re not working because [of the government shutdown],” said Gabriel Levy.

 

Kia Lor shared a personal story about why this election is important for her.

 

“I just got a text from Pennsylvania Human Services that my parents can no longer get SNAP, and it’s on pause. It’s a big difference for me, even though I’m in Virginia, and they’re in Pennsylvania. I think it’s all the same. It all comes down to the deep humanity that we have for each other,” she said. 

 

(Alexandra Henriques / Fourth Estate)

Fairfax City Democrats Going Strong As late morning brought a dip in voter turnout, Fairfax City Democrats continue campaigns

BY ALEXANDRA HENRIQUES, STAFF WRITER

 

1:55 p.m.: As voter turnout slowed before noon, representatives from the Fairfax City Democrats continued campaign efforts with an “illegal alien” costume. 

 

The costume, worn by Fairfax-resident Carolyn Grubbs, is a blow-up silver alien holding a human. It features a sign on the back labeling the alien taking the human as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). 

 

Fairfax City Democrat representatives say it is meant to represent ICE “kidnapping” immigrants. 

 

Grubbs also waved the American flag and held a sign urging voters to help protect immigrants who make our country by voting blue. 

 

Some voters, such as Maxwell Coleman and Kara Isakson, said protecting immigration and condemning ICE is one of their key concerns in today’s election.

 

“I feel like the last year has been a disaster … I’m hoping it will turn in the right direction,” Isakson said. 

 

Meanwhile, the City of Fairfax Republican Committee representatives are urging voters to think about the dangers of illegal immigration to the safety of Virginia residents. The group maintained that crime is increasing in and around Fairfax due to immigration and homelessness. 

 

Many Mason students voted at City Hall, including Shay McIntosh and Chris Lunstrum.

 

“[Govenor Youngkin] is really meddling in our Board of Visitors, and I would love to have a governor who doesn’t do that…I think [Spanberger] would be more open to academic freedom. I think she would leave the people who know best alone,” McIntosh said. 

 

For Lunstrum, abortion was one of his primary concerns in today’s election. 

 

“I have faith in my Christianity. I have the convictions that life begins at conception, and that life has certain inalienable rights,” he said. 

 

He acknowledged that, as a man, he rarely outrightly speaks about it, but that is why he got out to vote. 

 

“Some women who have had an abortion had trauma or turmoil after the fact, they got it because they felt like abortion was the only option, and that personally convinced me,” Lunstrum said, but he noted, “I completely understand issues of sexual harassment and those situations.” 

 

David Bulova, who is on the ballot to continue serving Virginia’s House of Delegates, had special support outside of Fairfax City Hall in the form of his son, Grayson Bulova, who tabled with the Fairfax City Democrats. 

 

Bulova said that growing up in a political family helped shape his political views. It also taught him about leadership, how the government runs and what you can do to be a part of the political system in the United States. 

 

When talking about campaign season, he said it is hard due to how busy it is, but the worst time is when they are in session and his father is gone for a full week to Richmond. 

 

“[My father] is a really nice guy, and he really cares about what he is doing. He is always there for anyone that asks. Like if you just came up to him and asked him questions, he would happily answer,” Bulova said. 

 

(Joseph Triolo / Fourth Estate)

Forward Party Candidate for Delegate Canvasses at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church Polling Station Self-proclaimed ‘Bernie Sanders with a southern accent,’ Brandon Givens stresses electoral reform

BY JOSEPH TRIOLO, STAFF WRITER

 

1:34 p.m.: Running on a platform of electoral reform, Brandon Givens is seeking to represent the 11th District of Virginia in the House of Delegates as a member of the Forward Party. 

 

In an interview at the Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church polling station, Givens discussed the issues he found most important and the change he is hoping to bring.

 

A topic of concern for Givens was that of the extremes found within the United States and the similarities he sees between the current United States and authoritarian regimes he lived in — like China and Kazakhstan — as an international school teacher.

 

A solution he proposed was that of electoral reform using multi-member districts and ranked choice voting. Givens used Australia, New Zealand and Europe as examples of states that utilize such measures 

 

“We do see less extremes in those systems. I’ll put it that way, and we do see more voices,” he said. 

 

Givens attributed the current rise in polarisation to the current electoral system of the overall United States and Virginia, known as “first-past-the-post.” 

 

“Our first-past-the-post system, it rewards extremes and it also rewards negative campaigning,” he said.

 

Givens shared his view that a multi-member district — one where multiple candidates represent a single district — would serve as a means to represent the entire constituency. 

 

“Here it will always work out, 70% Democrat, 30% Republican, until, you know, maybe there’s some demographic shift … I do think that 30% deserve to have their voice heard.”

 

When discussing other issues important to his platform, Givens continued to emphasize his view on the importance of electoral reform. 

 

“There’s all kinds of things I want, like Medicare for all, all kind of problems we need to solve, but we’re not going to solve them until we have rational people in office who want to work together, and how are we going to do that, unless we change how we elect our representatives?” he said.

 

When asked if Givens’ proposed electoral changes may lead to the end of a big-tent party like Forward in favor of smaller, fragmented groups, Givens said, “That could happen, and if that happens, then I think we won.” 

 

“I think all of us would rather be a small party that affected great change than a large party that continues with gridlock.” 

 

Givens went on to say that he believes Forward would continue to exist, but possibly as one of the fragments.

 

“We don’t want to be the only, you know, we really do want people to have choice when they’re voting and, you know, to have their voices heard and to have representatives who want to solve our problems,” he said.

 

(Emma G. Schaible / Fourth Estate)

Fairfax Presbyterian Church Welcomes Hundreds of Voters this Morning The importance of voting is not lost on the City of Fairfax

BY EMMA G. SCHAIBLE, NEWS EDITOR

 

1:05 p.m.: The brisk fall air, people walking their dogs and the quiet hum of Old Town Fairfax in the background set the ambiance for a beautiful election day. Voters brought their kids, friends and opinions to the polls. 

 

Women’s healthcare and the economy are issues on voters’ minds as they walk, run and drive to the polls this morning. 

 

With a consistent flow of voters since 6 a.m., the polls got busier around 11 as Fairfax voters came to cast their votes. 

 

Dan and Christine, a married couple who have lived in Fairfax for the last five years, brought their daughter to the polls this morning. 

 

Christine believes that both candidates ran “a normal, typical campaign,” with her biggest voting issue being affordability.  

 

Chapman Hall, a History Ph.D. student at Mason, says his biggest voting issues were affordability and women’s healthcare, though he has only lived in Fairfax since the start of fall semester. 

 

Betsy Coyoy has lived in Fairfax her entire life. Her voting strategy was “anything but Republican.” She encourages students to “please actually just vote.” 

 

Finally, Eddie Sumbry, a construction project manager, has lived in Fairfax for the last five years. He voted because “our whole government [is] falling apart.” 

 

Sumbry thinks Spanberger ran the best campaign, winning his vote because “[her] background in law enforcement helps… [she is] doing the work that needs to be done to preserve democracy.”

 

Sumbry’s advice to students is that voting is “your civic duty. This will be remembered as a pivotal point in history, so please just do your civic duty.”

 

Jeff White, the Chief Officer of Elections for Precinct 1, thinks there have been about 300 voters since 6 a.m. as of 12 p.m. as they just opened their fourth package of ballots. 

 

White wants voters to “vote in every election.”

 

While volunteers from the Abigail Spanberger campaign have been handing out Democratic sample ballots, White explains that he has not seen the Republicans. 

 

The polls are open at Fairfax Presbyterian Church six more hours.

 

(Joel Aguilar / Fourth Estate)

U.S. Rep. James Walkinshaw Stops at Local Polling Place The recently elected U.S. Rep. canvases in support of Spanberger

BY BRIAN A. HAYUM, SPORTS EDITOR

 

12:10 p.m.: As Fairfax residents groggily made their way to the polls early this morning, U.S. Representative James Walkinshaw of the 11th District of Virginia joined canvassers at the Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center in support of the Democratic candidate for Va. GovernorAbigail Spanberger. 

 

“I think she’s the best person in this moment to stand up for Virginia in terms of the policies coming out of Washington and out of the White House,” Walkinshaw said in an interview with Fourth Estate. 

 

“At the end of the day, whoever wins, I’ll work with them … I’ll work with anybody if it means making progress for the people I represent,” he said.

 

The newly elected congressman shares the sentiment of many Democrats who feel that a win for Spanberger will be a sign of things to come ahead of the Nov. 2026 midterm elections. 

 

Walkinshaw also explained how the results of this election will impact Mason’s student body. 

 

“They have a lot at stake in this election,” he said. “State officials make a lot of important decisions in terms of state funding for universities, like George Mason… the governor appoints the board of visitors, so [Mason students] have a lot at stake in this election.”

 

In recent months, Mason has been at the epicenter of the Trump administration’s focus on higher learning. 

 

In a press release on Aug. 22, the Department of Education accused George Mason President Gregory Washington of violating Title VI by “illegally using race and other immutable characteristics in university practices and policies, including hiring and promotion.” 

 

Currently, all six members of the board of visitors were appointed by the current Virginia Governor, Glenn Youngkin. An additional ten nominees by Youngkin have been rejected in the state senate. 

 

The board is supposed to consists of 16 members, each serving four-year terms, appointed by the Governor.

 

(Alexandra Henriques / Fourth Estate)

Discourse at Fairfax City Hall Enthralls Morning Voters Fairfax City Hall bustles with voters

BY ALEXANDRA HENRIQUES, STAFF WRITER

 

11:10 a.m.: At 9 a.m. outside of Fairfax City Hall, a representative from the City of Fairfax Republican Committee and Virginia Uliana, a Jay Jones advocate, argued over the state of the country and gun policies. 

 

Uliana, representing “the seniors,” argued that the Second Amendment should not protect assault rifles such as AK-47s. She said the Republican Committee representative said that the Democratic Party is baseless and holds faulty morals. 

 

Uliana came out to advocate for Jay Jones amidst the texting scandal where he shared violent messages about Republican politicians to Republican lawmaker Carrie Coyner. 

 

Despite the contents of the messages, Uliana said she believes that Jones’ statements should be excused.

 

“We do not want anybody who is for the way the Republican Party is going. And I voted Republican in the past,” Uliana said. 

 

Later, a voter chanted “No Kings” to the same representative, a popular tagline against the current Trump and Republican administration. 

 

Other groups tabling outside City Hall are representatives from Fairfax City Democrats and the Forward Party. All groups handed out sample ballots and pamphlets about their cause. 

 

Based on brief exit polling, the biggest issues that influenced morning voter’s choices in today’s gubernatorial elections were the future of the country’s democracy. 

 

“I think it’s important to show that there is an organized state resistance to the federal nonsense that is going on right now,” Fairfax resident Ben Lebron said. “The issue that matters most to me is rule of law and the reestablishment of the rule of law.” 

 

Many voters are headed to work after casting their ballots, often rushing back to their car in business attire and declining exit polls due to time constraints. 

 

As groups of voters exited, Fairfax City Democrat representatives thanked everyone for voting.

 

“It’s my honor,” one voter responded. 

(Sam Douglas / Fourth Estate)

Spanberger attends an event recognizing the local Asian American and Pacific Islander community

BY RITHVIK HARI, STAFF WRITER

With election day right around the corner, candidates are making their final rounds throughout the state with the intention of locking in every vote. 

In one of her many stops around Virginia during her “Virginia Votes Bus Tour,” gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger visited Soricha Tea and Theater, a Korean tea house in Annandale, Va. to recognize the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. 

Annandale, known for its large Korean-American population, has become a key area for politicians to visit because of its ties to the AAPI community.

As attendees entered the tea house on Oct. 30, they checked in with campaign staff and passed through metal detectors operated by private security. The tea house was filled to capacity, with attendees standing along the back wall and holding campaign signs.

Spanberger was welcomed with a standing ovation and cheers from supporters, including former and current representatives and delegates of the local and state government.

(Sam Douglas / Fourth Estate)

Delegate Kathy Tran, representing the 18th district of Va., welcomed attendees to the event and acknowledged other high profile attendees including former Virginia Delegates Mark Keam and Ken Plum, as well as current delegate JJ Singh. 

City of Falls Church Mayor Letty Hardi and Democratic Asian Americans of Va. Caucus Chair Shyamali Hauth was also in the crowd during the event. 

Tran then introduced Amanda Chiem, Soricha’s assistant manager, who conducted a traditional Korean tea ceremony. The ceremony is a centuries-old practice that emphasizes harmony, tranquility and mindfulness.

(Sam Douglas / Fourth Estate)

When asked about the significance of the experience, Chiem said, “I do the tea service every day for customers, so it was just another service.” 

Following the traditional Korean tea ceremony, attendees witnessed a Korean drum performance by the Hasang Korean School Traditional Drum Team, led by Director Wonyong Chong.

(Sam Douglas / Fourth Estate)

After the performance, Spanberger took the stage to address the crowd. She began by expressing how grateful she was that Republican gubernatorial candidate and current Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earl-Sears and her team were okay after their bus caught fire en-route to a campaign event. 

Spanberger continued by sharing how her then 5-year-old daughter helped convince her to move back to Virginia after her career as a CIA analyst. 

She then moved to the government shutdown. 

“The current government shutdown is hurting so many Virginia families,” Spanberger said.

In recognizing the AAPI Community, Spanberger added, “I want to ensure we celebrate the dreams, culture and people that make Virginia, Virginia.”

Spanberger also mentioned how through this election, “We will set an example for the rest of the country when communities bond together.” 

“I want to put Virginia’s public schools on the path to be the best public schools in the nation.” She said, concluding her speech to applause from the crowd.

Spanberger then met with the crowd for photos and conversation before departing for her next campaign event in Manassas.

(Sam Douglas / Fourth Estate)

The two sides discuss some of the most important issues affecting Virginians and Mason students

BY PETER MAHLER, STAFF WRITER

College Republicans at GMU and Democrats at Mason discussed a number of issues affecting Mason students and Northern Virginians during the annual “Election Forum Debate” on Oct. 28. 

Topics covered included the upcoming Va. election, immigration, diversity on campus, political violence and even whether pumpkin pie is better than apple pie.

Though neither side could find common ground on that last issue, they agreed on one thing: the importance of engaging in respectful discourse. 

This comes during a moment of political tension as Virginians prepare for the 2025 general election on Tuesday, Nov. 4. 

The debate was sponsored by Bridge at Mason as part of its mission to “encourage nonpartisanship and civil communication.” 

In an effort to maintain civility during the discussion, Bridge at Mason’s moderators set the ground rules both before and during the forum. Both sides were asked to sign an agreement to uphold the norms of the discussion, while the audience was instructed to keep decorum to minimize tension.

Representing the College Republicans was Chapter President Blake Reed and President emeritus Ali Motamedi. They debated with Democrats at Mason Vice-President Keely Calloway and Treasurer Pranav Choudhary.

Reed and Motamedi frequently emphasized the importance of free speech in the face of political violence. 

“We believe free speech is an unequivocal right that comes from God,” said Reed. “We need to be able to have these difficult discussions, just as Mr. [Charlie] Kirk intended.”

(Sam Douglas / Fourth Estate)

On the other end, the Democrats reiterated much of the same point. Choudhary emphasized his staunch support of the protection of free speech. 

“We believe that people are entitled to their free speech and their state of liberties, and they shouldn’t be punished for the exercise of that,” he said.

The Republicans took a hard stance on ending what they called “violence perpetrated by the left.”

“I think it’s disgusting,” Motamedi said when discussing how he thinks the left “lionizes” the killer of Charlie Kirk and the attempted assassin of President Trump. 

“I think [the left] needs to do a good job at disavowing that,” he said. Motamedi offered the possibility of the Department of Justice and the FBI doing more to investigate left-wing political violence. 

“It’s time to tone down the temperature in a lot of ways,” said Choudhary,” and I think that starts by acknowledging that our opponents are just people with whom we disagree, and that we share the same desire to better our country.” 

“They are not the enemy, and they are not people deserving of violence,” he said. 

While the Republicans said faith in God would help end political violence, the Democrats said ending the “male loneliness epidemic” was a more pressing issue.

The debate saw the two sides disagree on the topics of immigration and Mason’s stance on international students. 

The College Republicans took a restrictive stance, arguing that American-born students should take precedent over foreign ones. 

“The American government should put the American people first,” Motamedi said. “I don’t think international students should necessarily come here, and I think it should be rigorously enforced.”

Mason Democrats countered and said that international students provide value to the community, with Calloway offering the stance that barring them from American universities risks losing the economic advantages they bring with them.

“They are a staple at George Mason, as there are hundreds of international students here,” Calloway said. 

The Democrats opposed the investigations levied against Mason President Gregory Washington by the Department of Education and Department of Justice, with Calloway calling them a “political witch hunt” centered around reversing Washington’s progress of inclusion. 

“George Mason prides itself on ideological diversity,” Choudhary added. 

He emphasized that diversity by highlighting the “major conservative donors” in Mason’s economics department, such as the Koch family foundations and the Antonin Scalia Law School. Choudhary said this showcases Mason’s acceptance of both left and right-leaning donors.

In response, the College Republicans justified the investigations, citing Washington’s diversity policies and “racial quotas” they believe value race and gender at the expense of character, integrity and merit.

Motamedi also highlighted Washington’s past affiliations writing for “The Nubian Message” while as an undergraduate student at North Carolina State University. He called it a “black nationalist paper” that advocates for policies like “exterminating whiteness” in America.

Regarding the upcoming election, the two sides became heated on the topic of whether Mason Votes, the university’s non-partisan political news outlet, should encourage the student body to exercise their right to vote.

The Republicans criticized Mason Votes as “unconstitutional” for promoting voter outreach, with Motamedi saying “Americans have a right not to vote.” 

He and Reed slammed the outlet as having a liberal bias. 

“If you’re not satisfied with the choices offered … then you should [not] vote. And that is your right,” Motamedi said.

The Democrats had a pro-voter response, saying that students should participate in the electoral process. 

“It’s unconscionable to say we shouldn’t vote. Everyone should vote,” Choudhary said. 

(Sam Douglas / Fourth Estate)

Calloway went on to support her colleague’s statement by emphasizing that Mason Votes’ goal is to “ensure students [the] proper access to vote and ensure they continue to vote.” 

Both sides of the debate agreed the moderators performed well during the debate. 

“Bridge always does a wonderful job,” Calloway said. “I want to give them their flowers.” 

“They seemed very unbiased,” Reed said. “ It was great that we had the questions beforehand and that we were able to prepare.” 

To create this civil environment, Bridge at Mason’s Co-Director of Operations, Emily Melton, was adamant about the extensive preparation process she and her fellow moderators — President Wyatt Hurt and Vice President Gus Schmoll — take part in before every discussion.

“We have conversations amongst ourselves about what we would allow, what we’re going to do in terms of taking care of rowdiness and things like that,” Melton said. She and her colleagues highlight the value organization has when establishing the grounds for productive conversations on the nation’s most difficult topics.

With successful moderation, both sides agreed that the election forum was a success and an example of respectful political discourse. They treated each other with dignity, shook each other’s hands, and engaged in fun banter, even after some heated exchanges and moments of tension.

Mason students can vote this Tuesday on Nov. 4 at Merten Hall between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.

(Isabella Pearlstein / Fourth Estate)

The museum has three fascinating special exhibits with one leaving at the end of the year

BY ISABELLA PEARLSTEIN, STAFF WRITER

If you are looking for budget-friendly fun in Washington, D.C., checking out any of the 21 Smithsonian Museums is a great place to start. One of the most popular museums in D.C. to explore, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, resides on the National Mall along with 10 other museums. 

The Natural History Museum currently has three special exhibits showcasing the importance of the night sky, data on how our planet works and the impact of cellphones and how people have shaped the technology.

Walking up the steps to the entrance from the National Mall, visitors are immediately greeted by a grand rotunda with a majestic elephant towering above the information desk. Past the elephant in the room there is an entrance to the museum’s permanent exhibit, “Ocean Hall.” Looking to the left and right there are two more permanent exhibits, “Fossil Hall” and “Mammal Hall.” 

On the second floor there are signs for the museum’s other permanent exhibits: “Geology, Gems and Minerals” and “Butterflies and Live Plants.” There is also a sign for one of the special exhibits, “Lights Out.”

(Isabella Pearlstein / Fourth Estate)

The first exclusive display takes museum-goers on a journey through the night to learn how much of the night sky and nocturnal life of the planet are affected by light pollution. The exhibit itself is in a dark hallway with ambient sounds of nocturnal animals filling the space. 

There are several interactive features within the exhibit, like buttons on a panel that play the noises of various animals when pressed and buttons on a different panel that show what “your night sky” looks like in an “inner city sky,” a “suburban sky” or a “dark sky site.” 

Another fun feature of the exhibit is the small theater in the center where visitors can sit under a starry sky and watch short films about various cultures’ star stories. 

The “Lights Out” exhibit will be leaving the museum at the end of this year.

Next, is a smaller exhibit called “NASA’s Earth Information Center.” The exhibit looks at the constant changes Earth has been facing due to human activity. 

The data comes from collaborative research between the Smithsonian Institution and NASA. The exhibit is set to leave at the end of 2028.

(Isabella Pearlstein / Fourth Estate)

The last special exhibit in the Natural History Museum is “Cellphone: Unseen Connections.” It allows visitors to take a peek inside their phones and its connections to them and the world. 

Part of the story of the exhibit is told by a group of teens and a cat in a comic book style. These teens look at how cellphones impact our everyday life — whether positive or negative — and also discuss the technological advances and innovation behind your cellphone. 

There are several interactive features in the exhibit, including an area where visitors stand in front of a giant phone and turn into an emoji. There is also a wall where people can see what phones used to look like before today. 

This exhibit is set to leave at the end of 2026.

What makes these exhibits special is their ability to highlight the modern human impact on the planet and allow visitors to reflect on how important their role is on Earth.

Though the Natural History Museum is typically open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. seven days a week, all 21 Smithsonian Museums are currently closed due to the ongoing government shutdown.

(Mitchell Richtmyre / Fourth Estate)

A resolution to impeach the president was introduced in the URB’s meeting agenda Thursday

BY EMMA G. SCHAIBLE, OPINION EDITOR  

Members of the first Undergraduate Representative Body voted 22-2 ,with 3 representatives abstaining, to impeach Student Body President Isaiah Grays yesterday. 

This comes as four representatives resigned from Student Government in the last week alone. If two more members quit, the body will be unable to conduct business, according to sources. 

The impeachment legislation was sponsored by Christian Collins, chair of the University Services Committee. 

“The impeachment resolution against the president was not an easy decision. However, the amount of harmful conduct from him was unacceptable and unqualifying for the role of President,” said Collins in an email to Fourth Estate.

The meeting started with a motion to introduce R. #05, A Resolution to Impeach the Student Body President Isaiah Grays. The legislation was co-sponsored by 11 other representatives and endorsed by 22 members of the Mason community. 

Download (PDF, Unknown)

President Grays was accused of five charges in violation of Student Government’s governing documents. 

The charges included corruption by attempted bribery of the Clerk, unprofessional and unethical conduct by forging signatures on a published document, “misconduct of severe violation of governing documents” by violating the expectation and duty to collaborate with members, neglect of duties by failure to attend scheduled leadership meetings and “failure to represent the student body and uphold official duties” by failing to uphold interests, values and welfare of Mason students — including defending diversity, equity and inclusion.

Summer Dooley, chair of Student Engagement and Support, opened with a statement discussing how she believed Grays stepped over her. 

“[Grays] believed I was incapable of doing my job,” she said, referencing Grays’ alleged meeting with Patriots Activities Council President, Avery Shippen, to plan Gold Rush. 

Grays allegedly said he wished to have a meeting “president to president” to justify the act.

Other chairpeople confirmed this situation in their own statements. 

“We are fighting to represent students,” Dooley continued. “We can’t do it if we are being cut off.” 

Many representatives who spoke during the conversation echoed similar ideas, feeling like no productive business could be conducted under President Grays. They said voting to pass this legislation is in the best interests of the student body. 

Griffin Crouch, chair of Government and Community Relations, explained the legislation was introduced to spark a productive conversation: “What are the values and principles of this institution we have all decided to join?” 

However, Crouch said the impeachment was justified because President Grays’ actions  “distracted this organization from our mission.” 

Additionally, Clerk Andrew Boese said President Grays threatened to deny him access to the Student Government website unless he helped to “kill the bill,” alluding to B. #12, A Bill to Amend the Code of Student Governance, which removed the Student Body President as a voting party in the Undergraduate Representative Body. 

Bill 12 passed unanimously Oct. 2. 

Executive Vice President Jonathan Dubois stayed mostly silent during the meeting.

“I’m not negating all the good that has been done by this administration,” he said, emphasizing the importance of being critical while also defending Grays’ work as president.

(Mitchell Richtmyre / Fourth Estate)

Chief of Staff Dakota Atizol, Vice President for Marketing and Public Relations Zoe Oliver, Vice President for Membership Development and Training Tereana Battle and Vice President for Outreach Alani Arnold took turns reading a unified statement outlining the problems they experienced while working under the leadership of President Grays. 

Atizol, Oliver, Battle and Arnold joined Student Government with Grays because they had hope for what they could accomplish in the future.

“Our experience in Student Government has been very overwhelming and disappointing,” the joint statement read.

Members from the gallery, including concerned students and former members of Student Government, presented statements and asked President Grays and the other representatives questions about the proceedings. 

“This is not about character,” said Andre Esteves regarding the movement to impeach Grays. 

Members from the gallery spoke to President Grays’ upstanding character, both in class and other community events, but questioned his abilities as a leader.

“It is clear that the connection in the leadership is just not there,” said Summer Dooley.

“It shouldn’t take articles of impeachment and removal of position to take accountability,” said Clerk Boese. 

Discussions continued, questioning if voting to remove President Grays would cross a line.

“I ran on the slogan “putting the ‘U’ back in GMU,” Grays said in defense of his actions when helping chairpeople run their committees and events. 

(Mitchell Richtmyre / Fourth Estate)

“I hope you can all take this as a formal apology,” Grays said in closing.

The vote was conducted anonymously, with 22 representatives voting for impeachment, two voting against, and three abstaining.  

“Members of the undergraduate representative body are taking these measures as a way of upholding the integrity, mission and core values that student government holds,” said Andre Esteves, chair of Academics, in a verbal statement to Fourth Estate after the vote. 

The passage of R. #05 does not immediately remove President Grays from office. 

The Elections and Disputes Committee will hear arguments and impose the justified  punishment; however, the representatives voted to have Vice President Jonathan Dubois preside over the rest of the meeting. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: News Editor Barrett R. Balzer contributed reporting to this article.

(Sam Douglas / Fourth Estate)

Independent organization Palestine Legal sends letter on behalf of Students for Justice in Palestine

BY SAM DOUGLAS, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Palestine Legal and Mason’s chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine issued a statement and sent a letter to Mason on Oct. 29 threatening to sue Mason over the university’s previous demand toward SJP to remove a video posted to their Instagram account on Aug. 24.

“We demand the University take immediate corrective action to remedy the constitutional violation that occurred when GM’s Office of Access, Compliance, and Community (ACC) compelled SJP to remove a video from its Instagram page, selectively applying the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism,” Palestine Legal said in a letter addressed to Anne Gentry, Mason’s University Counsel and senior assistant attorney general.

The video in question was posted on Aug. 24 to the “SJP at Mason” Instagram page. A transcript of the two minute long video can be found in the letter Palestine Legal sent to Mason.

In an analysis by the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community sent to SJP on Sept. 5, Mason referred to the usage of phrases “genocidal Zionist state of Israel,” “belly of the beast,” “Turtle Island” and “full liberation of Palestine from the river to the sea,” as violations of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism.

The Office of Access, Compliance, and Community described the phrase “belly of the beast” as a “phrase used as a metaphor for western countries, especially the United States and United Kingdom, which implies that Jews/Israel have geopolitical power over these countries.”

They further described “Turtle Island” as falling under an IHRA example of antisemitism for “accusing Jews as a people of being responsible for real or imagined wrongdoing committed by a single Jewish person or group, or even for acts committed by non-Jews.” 

Mason said Turtle Island is a name for North America that has been used by Indigenous peoples that is a “phrase used to describe the historic description of North and South America as colonizers.”

“Full liberation of Palestine from the river to the sea,” was described by Mason as calling “for the eradication of Jews in Israel and [denying] individuals a right to self-determination by advocating for the elimination of the Israeli state.”

“We’ve been monitoring the [IHRA] definition for several years now as more and more universities are adopting it, and this is the clearest example we’ve seen to date of that definition being used to censor speech about Palestine,” said Tori Porell, senior staff attorney at Palestine Legal.

The IHRA’s working definition and examples of antisemitism were added to University Policy Number 1201 in Aug. of 2024. 

In Feb. 2025, the Board of Visitors passed a resolution that directed Mason to “refrain from sponsoring or endorsing any organization, event, or other activity whose position or posture is anti-semitic under the IHRA definition.” 

“A recently-posted Instagram video from Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) that has raised safety fears and alarm among members of the university community was taken down by SJP on September 2 at the university’s insistence, citing its non-discrimination policy,” Mason said in a statement released on Sept. 8.

Palestine Legal argues that the removal of the video is a violation of SJP’s right to free speech.

“That demand for them to take down the video was illegal because Mason is a public school and all of the speech in that video is protected by the First Amendment, and it is just unlawful for a school to demand students rescind First Amendment-protected speech,” Porell, the attorney, said in an interview with Fourth Estate.

She described Palestine Legal as a civil rights organization “defending the rights of students, academics and anyone who is speaking out in support of Palestine and facing repression for that speech.”

Palestine Legal demanded that Mason allow SJP to repost the video to their social media by 5 p.m. on Oct. 31, issue an apology to SJP with assurance that SJP “will not face such illegal censorship in the future,” and repeal the IHRA definition and examples of antisemitism.

“George Mason must take corrective action to restore the rights of its students, and repeal the IHRA definition — or we will see them in court,” Porell said in Palestine Legal’s statement.

Mason’s Office of University Counsel declined a request for comment. 

[See image gallery at gmufourthestate.com]

 

(Jordan Giles / Fourth Estate)

The defending A-10 champions enter the season “Believing Big Squared”

BY PETER MAHLER, STAFF WRITER

When a team surpasses all expectations, how much higher can the expectations be moving forward? 

George Mason Women’s Basketball Coach Vanessa Blair-Lewis’ motto has always been to “Believe Big.” Rather than recapturing the success of the 2024-25 campaign, a season where the team reached March Madness for the first time, it’s about “Believing Big Squared.”

Before Blair-Lewis’s hiring, Mason won just 12 games over the span of two years, including a winless stretch against A-10 opponents in 2020-21. She instilled the belief that her players would one day hang banners in EagleBank Arena. To shift the culture of a losing program, Mason players were immediately challenged to envision future success. 

“It was audacious,” Blaire-Lewis said, “because we hadn’t won the games yet. But that’s what belief is, right?”

After several years of steady improvement, the Patriots achieved their most successful season ever in 2024-25, reaching an overall record of 27-6 while going 14-4 against A-10 opponents for the second straight year. 

Mason finally hung a banner last season, commemorating the school’s first-ever NCAA tournament appearance.  In the A-10 tournament, they defeated Saint Joseph’s 73-58 to win the conference, a major achievement in their remarkable turnaround.

Even while riding the high of success, the Patriots’ hard work doesn’t stop after the tournament season ends.

“It was kind of like homework over the summer,” said junior forward Louis Volker when discussing the offseason, which included many one-on-one games and film study.

Volker, one of just four Patriots to play in every game last season, will have a greater role moving forward after coming off the bench last season. “One thing I can do every game is show up … whether it’s for five minutes or for 40,” she said.

With the team welcoming several freshmen, Volker embraces the opportunity she has to lead younger players while learning from them as well. 

In addition to incoming freshmen, the Patriots enter their A-10 title defense having undergone an offseason of significant roster turnover.

Mason will be without key starters Nalani Kaysia, Paula Suárez and Ta’Viyanna Habib. Kaysia led the team with 9.7 rebounds per game in 2024-25, leaving Mason with a need for players who can replace her impact on the boards. 

To help with this, Mason added forwards Maliyah “MJ” Johnson from Ball State and Hawa Komara from Rhode Island, two graduate students who provide presence in the paint.

Johnson says that she and Komara bring height, size and experience to Mason. “You really have to pick your poison in this lineup … like, you can’t leave one or sag off on the other.” She noted the value she and Komara can add on defense, saying they give the team length and versatility on switches.

Johnson says her integration with the team has been seamless. She credits the team’s 10-day trip to Spain in August for bringing her closer to her new teammates.

“When you spend eight hours on a flight with someone, you learn something new,” said Johnson. Having reached the NCAA tournament three times during her career at Ball State and Texas A&M, she brings a valuable March Madness pedigree.

Johnson defines these intangibles as ways to impact the game that don’t necessarily end up on the stat sheet, such as loose balls, deflections and bench energy. 

Looking back on her freshman season at Texas A&M, she discussed the idea of being ready to contribute in any way possible when given the opportunity.

“If I had to be ‘Aliyah Boston in South Carolina,’ then I was gonna be the best Aliyah Boston I could be for my team,” she said. If Mason is getting a player who treats each play like she’s one of college basketball’s all-time greats, then Patriot fans are in for a treat.

Returning for the Patriots is Zahirah “ZaZa” Walton. She enters 2025-26 after leading the Patriots with 14.8 points per game last season. In addition to her scoring success, she also received numerous accolades, including A-10 All-Conference First Team and All-Defensive Team selections. 

Walton, a junior, believes there is still room for improvement within her game. One of these areas is her voice.

As a star player, Walton recognizes the importance of leading her teammates both through her play and vocally as well. 

“Coming up these past few years, I haven’t really been talking. So when my voice is heard, people have told me it means more,” said Walton.

She embodies the “Believe Big Squared” tenant that Blair-Lewis has consistently reiterated, particularly in her preparation. Walton says “taking things one day at a time” and “stacking good practices on top of each other” will help the Patriots find success.

For a team coming off such a historic season, Mason appears focused on the present and not what was done in the past. The Patriots will open the 2025-26 season in Philadelphia against Temple on Monday, Nov. 3. 

Fans can watch on ESPN+.

(Montgomery Vanik / Fourth Estate)

Topics include sustainability and new restaurants on campus

BY MONTGOMERY VANIK, STAFF WRITER

The Student Culinary Council at Mason met on Oct. 15 to discuss several developments in campus dining, including new restaurant additions, sustainability milestones and digital innovations aimed at enhancing the student dining experience.

Among the most talked-about proposals was the potential addition of a Taco Bell and a Wendy’s to the Johnson Center, where most on-campus food vendors are located. Council members — who consist of Mason Dining employees — noted that these new dining options would expand meal variety and convenience for students who frequent the Johnson Center between classes.

A major topic discussed is a possible renovation of Southside, one of Mason’s primary dining halls, located on Wilkins Plaza. While no official timeline has been announced, the council said that student feedback will play a key role in shaping renovation plans.

A hot ticket item discussed was the rollout of the Tapin2 system, already installed at Southside and expected to expand campus-wide in the near future. The Tapin2 system allows students to order meals online then tap their Mason ID to retrieve food from secure lockers, which minimizes wait times and streamlines pickup. 

Mason Dining representatives described Tapin2 as “part of Mason’s broader effort to modernize campus dining through technology.”

In addition to these changes, the council celebrated a significant step toward sustainability. Soon, all of Mason’s dining halls will be Green Restaurant Certified, a certification that recognizes dining facilities that meet rigorous standards for energy efficiency, waste reduction and sustainable sourcing.

Council members encouraged students to stay engaged and voice their opinions about campus dining through upcoming surveys and future meetings. The next Student Culinary Council meeting is scheduled for November 12 at Ike’s, where updates on these initiatives and additional projects are expected to be discussed.

“[The Culinary Council] was a great opportunity to express my thoughts and concerns to the people in charge,” said freshman Caleb Beaver.

Students have been encouraged to fill out a survey they received through their email, which asks for opinions on campus dining options, menus and future improvements.

(Louis Volker / Fourth Estate)

Even nostalgia can’t diminish my hatred for this movie

BY LOUIS VOLKER, STAFF WRITER

EDITOR’S NOTE: This review contains spoilers for “Tron: Ares.”

When the first trailer for “Tron: Ares” arrived, I was hesitant at the idea of Jared Leto as the new lead of a beloved franchise. 

Diehard fans of the 1982 movie “Tron” and its 2010 sequel “Tron: Legacy” were skeptical of the actor, whose recent string of failed films (“Morbius,” “Suicide Squad” and “Haunted Mansion”) and allegations of predatory behavior toward underaged girls have raised concerns about his character, acting skills and appeal to audiences. 

It is with great sadness that I report Leto’s performance is not the worst part of “Tron: Ares.” It’s not even the worst performance of the movie. 

Though I didn’t have high expectations when entering the theater, I was genuinely surprised at how much I disliked this movie. 

As the third “Tron” installment in five decades, “Tron: Ares” is more of a reboot than a sequel, presenting an original story that only marginally involves characters from past movies. The titular character Ares (Leto) is an AI soldier who goes on a quest for independent existence after being printed off of the Grid into the real world. 

The Grid is a series of online realities that imagine computer programs as sentient beings. The movie’s villain, Julian Dillinger (Evan Peters) wants to sell Ares as an expendable and reprintable soldier as part of a digital arms race. 

If my description of the plot of “Ares” makes it seem flimsy, that’s because it is. Despite being a high-concept sci-fi flick, the movie doesn’t do anything surprising, interesting or even controversial other than a vague rhetorical argument that basically says ‘what if AI is a good idea?’ 

It’s not just a bad movie; it’s boring. I don’t think I can even really spoil it in this review because its trailers reveal everything that this movie has to offer. 

There’s hardly any originality in it at all, and whatever original ideas do result from “Ares” often act in direct contradiction to preestablished canon that confuses the viewer rather than interests them. 

Ares’ evolution into an autonomous being rather than a mindless program is supposed to be profound, but it completely falls flat when considering that the plot was already established in the trailer and a very similar plot already happened in the first “Tron” movie. 

Standing on a weak foundation, everything on the surface of “Tron: Ares” falls flat as well. Despite featuring an all-star cast, including Emmy-winner Gillian Anderson, Greta Lee and Jeff Bridges, every performance and line delivery feels disconnected and uninterested.

The actors fail to convince audiences that the stakes of the movie are real. Peters’ performance in particular stands out in a bad way. Scenes of him in “Ares” feel more like a YouTube meme reaction video compilation rather than a performance with a constructed narrative. His line deliveries feel intercut and random, like they could be moved to any other part of the movie and not change its narrative at all. 

When I critique the actors’ line deliveries, it’s important to clarify: I’m referring to the lines that I could understand. The largest disappointment of “Tron: Ares” comes from its musical score, which often blares so loud that I couldn’t even tell what characters are saying. 

I was excited when the band Nine Inch Nails were announced as the composers for the movie’s musical score. This is as a big fan of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross’s Oscar-winning work for films like “The Social Network” and Daft Punk’s famous score for “Tron: Legacy.” 

Reznor and Ross certainly had large footsteps to fill when composing the music for “Ares,” and it seems like the duo and Disney failed by trying to live up to past expectations instead of finding an original sound. 

While there are some good songs, the music is emphasized way too much, resulting in a $200,000,000 music video that left my ears ringing. While the music is catchy, it doesn’t show Ross and Reznor’s full potential as composers and instead sounds like a louder remix album of their previous work. 

I think its blatant attempts at iconicism is what makes “Ares” so disappointing. It’s not that director Joachim Rønning misunderstood the appeal of the “Tron” franchise, with its slick aesthetics and campy concepts; rather, that he tried too hard to recreate that same appeal instead of pushing the series to evolve. 

Without its flashy Akira-slides, famous light-up motorcycles and sets that reference the previous installments, “Ares” does absolutely nothing original. Even chase sequences can’t exist without relying on nostalgia to make moments impactful. This is more frustrating to me than if Ares had at least attempted something of substance and fallen short. 

In a way “Ares” is a lot like the AI it tries to support. It takes a lot of surface level references from other popular media and tries to recycle it into something with substance, but that just creates a thin veneer of aesthetic and flashiness that fails to cover up for the fact that it’s not really a movie on its own. 

It’s lazy, self obsessed and only interested in pleasing fans for the sake of turning a profit. I do not think that its aesthetics will help it last in a lingering legacy the way that its predecessors have, and I am angry that it even exists at all. 

“Tron: Ares” is not just a bad movie. It is barely a movie. While it does look good half the time, the most exciting bits about it are the parts that reference other, better media, and this is never a good sign. It earns one star out of five, and that’s only because the Ducati Sport1000 that appears in the film is the raddest bike ever. I am full of hatred. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: Fourth Estate welcomes opinion articles by people of all beliefs. If you feel strongly about a subject and want your voice to be heard, please email Opinion Editor Emma G. Schaible at eschaib@gmu.edu.

(Andrew T. Yarbrough / Fourth Estate)

Despite current events, both sides maintained a respectful debate

BY ANDREW T. YARBROUGH, STAFF WRITER

Bridge at Mason, Student Government and the Office of Student Involvement hosted the annual Election Forum Debate between the Democrats at Mason and the George Mason College Republicans. Keely Calloway and Pranav Choudhary represented the Democrats at Mason, while Blake Reed and Ali Motamedi represented the College Republicans on the debate stage Oct. 28.. This debate was held in Lecture Hall, with a wide variety of topics being discussed relevant to our day and age. Each party was given 1 minute and 30 seconds to discuss their viewpoint, and the opposing party had 30 seconds to provide a rebuttal before moving on to the next topic.

While the debate mostly maintained decorum compared to the recent Virginia gubernatorial debate, there were still outbursts of laughter from the College Republicans when topics such as “acting like the most diverse university” or “the President’s AI video of dropping poop from an F-16 plane” were discussed or brought up. 

Both sides debated respectfully, even shaking hands and thanking one another during the short recess midway through the debate. In our current political climate, I encourage and expect more debates to be conducted with the same level of professionalism.

Civil conversations don’t happen as often as they used to, particularly due to the rise of social media in the past few years. These in-person conversations help one another understand current events, consider different view points and develop a sense of belonging in this nation. 

It’s critical to our democracy to maintain civil conversations that are professional and respectful to each party regardless of their different viewpoints. That is how we discuss things in business, and the government should reflect just that. 

One such instance of clashing views came as Democrats Pranav Choudhary and Keely Calloway advocated for the Affordable Care Act subsidies to continue and argued that the recent attacks on the University were unjustified, while Republicans Blake Reed and Ali Motamedi deemed the investigations justified due to the influx of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives on campus, and Gregory Washington’s advocacy as an undergraduate student at North Carolina State University in the 90’s. I personally don’t think we should judge a man on his actions while was an undergraduate student 30 years ago. 

As pointed out by the College Republicans at the event, we all live on the same planet and attend the same schools at the end of the day. It’s up to each party to come together on issues and find a common ground that helps advance our country as one.

The topics debated included things like immigration, the impact of tariffs on the economy and recent political attacks. Each party expressed their own opinion on these topics and presented factual evidence. 

The debate was split into two parts, with the first half of the debate including pre-selected agreed upon questions. The second half consisted of questions from the audience. 

Despite some encouraging remarks by both parties, I decided not to continue viewing the debate simply because of the rhetoric being displayed by the College Republicans. I ended up watching the rest of the stream later on Student Government’s Instagram livestream. Phrases like “You shouldn’t vote,” and “International students shouldn’t come to Mason” are ideas that harm the continuation of immigrants coming to this country legally, bringing new ideas and innovations.

I believe it’s important to participate in discourse like this, establish your own opinion, do your own research and shape these events into something that contributes to the growth our political atmosphere desperately needs. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: Fourth Estate welcomes opinion articles by people of all beliefs. If you feel strongly about a subject and want your voice to be heard, please email Opinion Editor Emma G. Schaible at eschaib@gmu.edu.

(Avi Terali / Fourth Estate)

From fun costumes to haunted houses, spooky season is here

BY AVI TERALI, STAFF WRITER

Last week, the annual “Once Upon a Scream” event hosted by the Patriot Activities Council at Mason transformed Chesapeake River Way into a spectacularly spooky area. 

The Oct. 23 event included a haunted house, pumpkin-smashing station, face-painting and other fun Halloween activities for students. 

Crisp autumn air blew as 1,468 students gathered with cool costumes and Halloween spirit. The mood was set with upbeat music and seasonal decorations. When students first checked in there was a variety of Halloween necklaces to choose from, each one with a different icon. 

“I think this is such a cool event and a great social opportunity. I hope there are more like this in the future,” freshman Camilia Rosa-Perez said.

Colorful lights and inflatable Halloween decorations illuminated the area as students laughed and cheered while playing carnival games like beanbag toss and plushie tic-tac-toe. Nearby, a “Potion-Making Station” was set with mini bottles filled with a mix of edible glitter, Kool-Aid powder and gatorade to create a magical drink. 

Another booth allowed guests to fill and decorate jars with essential oils and Orbeez, adding to the creative holiday experience. 

(Avi Terali / Fourth Estate)

The star of the night was the haunted house. Lines for the attraction wrapped around the parking lot and decorations delivered plenty of scares. Volunteers dressed in creepy costumes lurked eerily, chasing and staring at unsuspecting attendees to everyone’s amusement.

“I really loved this event and I’m glad I can help. It’s great to talk to people and make sure everyone has a fun experience celebrating Halloween,” said Aaliyah Veal, a senior and PAC member.

One of the most unique attractions was the lipology stall featuring one of the only ten certified lipologists in the world. Students lined up for the opportunity to have their lip prints analyzed and learn what their present emotions and energy might reveal. 

Across from the carnival games, students made digital word art featuring Halloween icons like pumpkins, ghosts and vampires, snapped photos at the themed photo booth and built towers at the giant Jenga station. A prize redemption booth rewarded game winners with spooky souvenirs and halloween plushies. 

(Avi Terali / Fourth Estate)

Every student’s costume showcased their creativity, including group themes like Alvin and the Chipmunks, anime cosplays and even Mason-related costumes like Starship delivery robots. 

“I thought the event was pretty cool. Overall, I got to see a lot of different costumes — it was a fun place to appreciate everyone’s different interests and creativity,” freshman Jordan Bridger said.

As the night came to an end, the laughter and music lingered in the air — proof that Once Upon a Scream delivered the perfect mix of chills, creativity and Mason spirit.

(Jordan Giles / Fourth Estate)

Masses filled Eagle Bank Arena to celebrate the upcoming basketball season

BY CHRISTABEL BOAKYE YIADOM, STAFF WRITER

Loud music filled the expanse of EagleBank Arena as Mason Madness attendees slowly filed in, green light wands in hand, and took their seats to celebrate the opening of the basketball season. People danced, cheered and sang as they waited for the event to start.

Mason Madness is a long-standing tradition at Mason that encourages Patriot pride. It is the commencement event of the basketball season — for both the men’s and women’s teams — that introduces the coaches and players to the Mason community while presenting the aspirations and goals of the teams for the season.

The event started with loud music from the GMU Green Machine band, directed by Doc Nix. The Masonettes, the school’s official dance team, put on an amazing performance that had people in the crowd riled up and excited.  

At the end of the student performances, the introduction of the Mason women’s basketball team began. Upbeat music played as members of the team — players, assistant coaches and directors — walked down the stage to the floor of the arena, throwing shirts into the frenzied crowd as they went on the court. 

The head coach of the women’s basketball team, Vanessa Blair–Lewis, was introduced to the audience last. As she walked down a set of stairs with smoke flaring around her, the crowd gave her a standing ovation. 

“We are squaring ourselves this year,” said Blair-Lewis in a speech regarding the team’s growth. 

She also talked about the plans for the season, gave an overview of upcoming games and encouraged people to come watch the women’s team play. 

After Blair-Lewis’ remarks, the men’s basketball team players and directors were introduced, echoing the same fanfare as the women’s team. 

Head Coach Tony Skinn, a former player on the team, addressed the crowd in terms of the team’s plan for the season 

“We were really successful last season — 27 wins — most wins in the school’s history, but none of this happens if we don’t win 18 games at home, and we have an opportunity to do the exact same thing and even better…” Skinn said. 

(Jordan Giles / Fourth Estate)

The team introductions were followed by a three-point shooting competition between both teams. The game consisted of a half point, layup and free throw, where two players from each team shot. Shouts and screams filled the arena as the women’s basketball team retained their championship title from the previous year’s competition.

The event ended with the Green Machine’s performance of the Mason fight song in their green jerseys as they danced and waved their musical instruments around, showcasing Patriot pride. 

The men’s basketball team will play its first game of the season against Wofford at home on November 3, while the women’s basketball team travels to Philadelphia to compete against Temple University. 

With the season ahead and spirits high, Patriots are ready to support both teams, carrying the energy of Mason Madness into every game.

Tickets for Mason basketball games at EagleBank Arena are free for students and can be reserved on the Mason 360 app or website.

(Emma G. Schaible / Fourth Estate)

An analysis of the Va. governor candidates’ face-off

BY AVI TERALI, STAFF WRITER

The action was intense during the Virginia Gubernatorial debate on Oct. 9 as candidates Abigail Spanberger and Winsome Earle-Sears battled not only for the spotlight but also for Virginia’s future. 

During the debate, Earle-Sears consistently spoke over Spanberger, creating a distraction and showing voters a glimpse of the political chaos that would take place if she were to assume office.

Meet the Candidates

Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat and former CIA agent, is focused on strengthening public schools, making Va. more affordable, and keeping communities safe — all while putting Va. first.

Winsome Earle-Sears, a Republican and U.S. Marine Corps veteran serving as Virginia’s Lieutenant Governor under Glenn Youngkin since 2022, is running for governor because she believes the state needs bold leadership to advance conservative values for all Virginians. 

The Issues and the Heat

The debate was centered around hot-button issues, including the economy, abortion rights, education and transgender students in sports and bathrooms. 

The debate opened up with the texting scandal surrounding the Democrat candidate for Va. attorney general, Jay Jones. Text messages from 2022 resurfaced in early October where he talked about shooting former Va. House Speaker Todd Gilbert. 

Spanberger said Jones’ texts were “absolutely abhorrent” and that she would “denounce them at every opportunity.” She made it clear that regardless of political party, it is “important that candidates always denounce violence.”

Spanberger’s approach was respectable — she didn’t avoid the scandal and clearly stated that violence is unacceptable. However, she should have gone further and outlined tangible steps to move forward from the controversy. 

Instead, Spanberger remained on defense as Earle-Sears repeatedly attacked her, making Spanberger appear uninformed about her own party. 

When the discussion turned to transgender students, Spanberger avoided the question, instead talking about involving parents and teachers in students’ identity. 

On the other hand, Earle-Sears painted a disturbing image, asking Spanberger what she would do if her daughter came crying to her because there was a man in the bathroom with her. This comment felt especially distasteful because Spanberger’s daughter was in the audience that night. 

Notable Moments 

A personal favorite moment during the debate was when Earle-Sears responded to a question about data centers. 

“My opponent’s only plan is solar and wind. Well, what happens when the sun goes down?” Ignoring the obvious fallacy of this statement, it shows viewers the candidates’ true personalities. This silly statement sets back Earle-Sears, and, if anything, turns her into another meme sensation for TikTok. 

Earle-Sears’ record on abortion also raises red flags. She called her opponent’s stance “extremist,” while claiming voters have the right to choose; yet, she says she’d use veto power as governor to get rid of abortion access. 

That’s a contradiction — you can’t restrict rights and protect them at the same time.

Final Takeaways

The overall debate wasn’t particularly satisfying.The candidates didn’t address the issues to the extent that I wanted them to do. It was definitely a performance to see the moderators constantly telling Earle-Sears that she was being disruptive by not allowing Spanberger to complete her thoughts. 

That fact alone makes it clear that Earle-Sears is not ready to engage in a simple civil conversation, let alone govern a whole state. 

There are indications that Abigail Spanberger may win the election, given her strong polling advantage and her recent endorsement from former President Barack Obama. 

Meanwhile, Winsome Earle-Sears claims that Donald Trump supports her — yet he has not formally endorsed her or said anything publicly in her favor.

Whatever the outcome may be of the election, it will go down in history as Virginia will be electing its first female governor.  

EDITOR’S NOTE: Fourth Estate welcomes opinion articles by people of all beliefs. If you feel strongly about a subject and want your voice to be heard, please email Opinion Editor Emma G. Schaible at eschaib@gmu.edu.

[See image gallery at gmufourthestate.com]

[See image gallery at gmufourthestate.com]

[See image gallery at gmufourthestate.com]

[See image gallery at gmufourthestate.com]

(Mitchell Richtmyre / Fourth Estate)

Late equalizer dims Mason’s dreams of hosting A-10 tournament game

BY SAM DOUGLAS, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

A physical, back-and-forth men’s soccer match between the George Mason Patriots and Saint Joseph’s Hawks ended in a 2-2 draw at Mason Stadium Saturday night. 

The two teams entered the match fighting for a critical three points needed to help lift themselves into a top-four spot in the A-10 table, which would give them home-field advantage entering the A-10 Tournament. 

Mason entered their final home match of the regular season 6-5-2 overall and 3-2-1 in conference, ranking them sixth in the A-10. Saint Joseph’s was just ahead of the Patriots, in fifth place, with a 3-2-2 conference record. 

As the Davidson Wildcats held on to fourth place in the conference with a 3-1-2 record, both Mason and Saint Joseph’s needed a win and some luck to put themselves in a good position entering the final regular game of the season.

However, neither team pulled far enough away from the other during the contest. Saint Joseph’s junior defender Herman Tveit-Reffsgaard started the scoring in the 32nd minute, taking advantage of a deflection after freshman defender Finn Murray’s shot was blocked by goalkeeper Jaume Salvado. 

Mason immediately answered with a goal from graduate midfielder Kenzo Brito just two minutes later, his first as a Patriot. With the score even at 1-1 coming out of the break, Mason freshman forward Jaime Godinho scored his first goal of the season, three minutes into the second half.

Play would become increasingly physical as the second half went on. A total of 30 fouls and six yellow cards were issued, as both sides tried to take all three points. Mason suffered a scare in the 83rd minute as senior midfielder Matteo Mazzotta overshot a penalty kick after junior midfielder Javier Montava shoved Saint Joseph’s graduate defender Kobe Perlaza in the penalty box. 

Mazzotta got his revenge just five minutes later, with his 88th-minute shot bouncing off a player and into the goal to shock the Patriots.

Entering the season defending their A-10 regular season title from last year, Mason suffered key injuries earlier in the season, including one to graduate defender Javi Sánchez. The Patriots’ commitment to their teammates and the team helped them through it.

“We push for each other,” sophomore forward Martim Sereno said. “We are a family.”  

Mason faced a tough non-conference schedule, going 3-3-1. They opened the season with a one-goal loss to #2 Marshall, but were ranked #22 nationally by the Coaches Poll after an upset victory at Mason Stadium over the #11 Virginia Cavaliers. A high-scoring loss to the #6 West Virginia Mountaineers and a 1-0 win against the UMBC Retrievers followed, but the Patriots ended their non-conference slate with a tough 5-2 loss against Georgetown and a goalless draw against the William & Mary Tribe.

In-conference, Mason has had multiple high-scoring outbursts, slotting three goals past the Loyola Chicago Ramblers and six past the St. Bonaventure Bonnies. They have played their rivals close, with Jacobo Sanfeliu scoring the lone goal in a 1-0 win versus the George Washington Revolutionaries. The Patriots were unable to snap a streak of 13 years without a win against the VCU Rams, however, losing 2-1.

Mason closes out their season on Nov. 1 in Pittsburgh against the Duquesne Dukes. As things stand, they would need a win as well as a loss or draw from Dayton for Mason Stadium to host a playoff game. 

(Davon Marion / Fourth Estate)

The resilient Patriots fail to win a set against their toughest opponent yet

BY PETER MAHLER, STAFF WRITER

Despite resilient play, the Patriots lost to the conference-leading Dayton Flyers 3-0 Friday, Oct. 24 and Saturday, Oct. 25 at the Frericks Center in Dayton, Ohio. 

The Flyers’ defense made converting attacks difficult with just a 0.032 hitting percentage in the first two sets. Twenty-four Mason errors kept them from developing any substantial lead, as Dayton had a cleaner game with only 16 errors of their own.

Freshman setter Ava Cheney assisted her teammates 34 times, by far the most on the team. When the Patriot attack was humming, Cheney’s setting skills played a part in it. 

Mason found greater success in the second match; their hitting percentage increased from 0.089 in the first match to a more-solid 0.208. 

Sophomore middle blocker Meredith Brown had a good first match, contributing eight kills and three blocks. She frequently aided the team in stretches where Dayton appeared to be pulling away, using her 6’4” frame to deny attempts at the net.

Junior middle blocker Chelsea Colter made key plays in the second match to keep Mason close during a match-point situation down 24-22. A kill followed by a sensational block tied the game at 24, swinging momentum in the Patriots ‘ favor, but the Flyers ultimately pulled away in extra innings.

Serving has been a key strength for the Patriots all season, as they lead the A-10 with 1.85 aces per set. However, they struggled to put pressure on the Flyers, with just five aces in six sets compared to Dayton’s 12. Poor serves and 13 service errors routinely stifled Mason’s momentum.

Dayton imposed their will at the net. 6’4” redshirt freshman middle blocker Abigail Cresse led the way with 13 total blocks in the two matches. She and her teammates consistently swatted down Mason’s attacks, forcing Mason’s front-row players into unfavorable situations.

The Patriots responded admirably in the third set, but ultimately fell 25-21 after Dayton’s sophomore outside hitter Kaitlyn McNeel delivered a block and two kills in the final stretch. Their losses in the first two sets ended in a combined score of 50-33, featuring competitive stretches in which Mason held opportunities in multiple ties but failed to overcome untimely errors.

Dayton’s aggressive attacks demanded precise reactions that the Patriots simply couldn’t keep up with. Defensively, Mason led the first match with 42 digs.

In the second match, the Patriots carried their momentum from Friday night’s final set by playing more competitively, but still left Ohio without a single set win, losing 3-0.

The final set was less competitive, but Mason displayed something present in many of the other sets: resilience and a knack for giving Dayton trouble when trying to close out match points. Despite going down 24-18, the Patriots fought admirably, scoring three consecutive points before falling just short with a score of 25-21. 

Though Mason’s attack was noticeably better in the second match, errors continued to limit their output. In the final two sets, they had 29 kills to the Flyers’ 25, but also 16 errors that paved the way for a Dayton surge. 

The Flyers made fewer mistakes than the Patriots during their matches, which made the difference between the Patriots winning zero sets and potentially winning more. Mason now holds a 14-8 record and is 7-4 against A-10 opponents. 

The Patriots will return to Fairfax and look to rebound from three straight losses when they face George Washington on Wednesday, Oct. 29. Fans can watch them play at the Recreation Athletic Complex (RAC) or on ESPN+.