CNN contributor, former Clinton adviser Paul Begala to speak on campus Thursday

CNN contributor Paul Begala will stress the importance of young people participating in the election process when he speaks at Central Michigan University Thursday.

Begala, a former adviser to President Bill Clinton, will discuss today’s issues in the 2012 elections and tomorrow’s ramifications with students as part of a talk sponsored by the political science department at 7 p.m. in Anspach 161.

“I want students to take away how important they are in the electoral process,” political science Chairman Orlando Perez said. “They are the future of the country, and this election is very much about what that future will be.”

Perez hopes students will learn they are just as important as everyone else when it comes to the election process.

“While they may think the candidates are not speaking to their issues, it is still their obligation as citizens to be informed and to be politically active. Students shouldn’t let others decide for them who is going to lead this country,” he said.

Begala is best known for his appearances on CNN’s political debate show Crossfire and for his book “The Third Term: Why George W. Bush (Hearts) John McCain."

With Begala’s years as a political adviser and commentator, Perez said Begala will have some good information for students.

“This guy has been an insider. He’s been in the White House, he’s been making political policy, and he’s now a political analyst at CNN,” Perez said. “I think there is nobody better to tell people about the importance of politics and the political process.”

Begala currently advises Priorities USA Action, a super PAC supporting President Barack Obama.

The discussion is free and Begala will be available to sign copies of his book immediately following the event.