Aggie students got a rare opportunity Monday: a chance to talk one-on-one with local, state and national candidates.

The Texas A&M Student Government Association hosted the event in conjunction with its "Gig the Vote" campaign. The SGA invited candidates from both parties to a two hour informal meeting at the Memorial Student Center.

Those in attendance included U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R); U.S. Congressman Chet Edwards (D) and his opponent Rob Curnock (R); Railroad Commissioner candidate Mark Thompson (D); Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Wallace Jefferson (R); Brazos County District Attorney Bill Turner (D) and his challenger Rick Davis (R).

"The purpose of Lunch with the candidates is to educate students about local elections," said Michele Breaux, junior economics major and external affairs chairwoman for the Student Senate. "We want students to be excited about going out to vote for these very important positions. Although many students are enthusiastic about the presidential election, these local positions can have a huge impact on our lives."