Junior Kristen Howard, a director of political affairs for the student government association, says the candidates realize the importance of attracting both black voters and young voters.

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The competition is hosted by the Michigan Interactive Investments club and sponsored by Humdoozy, Peak6, Longbow Research, Morningstar, Grosvenor Capital Management, Tappan Street Partners and the Student Government Association at the Ross School of Business.

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Its absence "definitely hurts, " said Marissa West, president-elect of the university's student-government association.

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