It's not even the students. The Left figured out a long time ago that nobody cares about things, like Student government. That's what they've exploited over the years, and why they've gotten a death grip on Academia. It's the same in government in well. Sure, people turn out for Presidential Elections, but who runs and/or votes for the local school board, or local government?
High college tuition and federal grants >>>
Big budgets >>>
High paid staff >>>
Contributing to Democrats and liberal causes
(and repeat cycle)