Conventions Count

07/11/24 • 20 min

This conversation explores the purpose and significance of national conventions, focusing on the upcoming Republican National Convention (RNC). The RNC will officially nominate Donald Trump as the Republican candidate for president and is expected to reveal his vice presidential pick. The conversation also delves into the party platforms, with a detailed blueprint for a potential second Trump term and Trump's own platform. The platform guides the party's positions on various issues and influences campaign strategies.

Resources To Learn More:

Davis, J. E., Fernlund, P. F., & Woll, P. (2005). Civics: Government and Economics in Action. Pearson Prentice Hall.
McClenaghan, W. A., & Magruder, F. A. (2003). Magruder’s American Government. Prentice Hall.
Project 2025
Republican presidential nomination and delegates, explained | CNN Politics
The Republican Party lays out its 2024 policy platform : NPR
1924: The Wildest Convention in U.S. History - POLITICO Magazine

Resources To Learn More:

Davis, J. E., Fernlund, P. F., & Woll, P. (2005). Civics: Government and Economics in Action. Pearson Prentice Hall.
McClenaghan, W. A., & Magruder, F. A. (2003). Magruder’s American Government. Prentice Hall.
Project 2025
Republican presidential nomination and delegates, explained | CNN Politics
The Republican Party lays out its 2024 policy platform : NPR
1924: The Wildest Convention in U.S. History - POLITICO Magazine

Previous Episode

WTF Electoral College Edition

This conversation covers the basics of American elections, including the role of the Constitution, the Electoral College, and potential ways to eliminate or reform it. The Electoral College is a system used to elect the President and Vice President, where each state is granted a certain number of electors based on its representation in Congress. The winner-takes-all approach in most states can result in winning the Electoral College but losing the popular vote.

Resources To Learn More:

Davis, J. E., Fernlund, P. F., & Woll, P. (2005). Civics: Government and Economics in Action. Pearson Prentice Hall.
McClenaghan, W. A., & Magruder, F. A. (2003). Magruder’s American Government. Prentice Hall.
2024 Presidential and Congressional Primary Dates and Candidate Filing Deadlines for Ballot Access
It's time to abolish the Electoral College | Brookings
Live updates: Biden and Trump to face off at CNN presidential debate
Majority of Americans continue to favor moving away from Electoral College
The Constitution of the United States | National Archives
The Electoral College: What’s to be Done – Ash Center

Next Episode

Unprecedented Times Continued

Amid the whirlwind of news surrounding President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the presidential race, this conversation delves into the parallels and contrasts between the current political landscape and the Democratic Party's tumultuous summer of 1968. Discover the crucial role of delegates in the nomination process and the shifting power dynamics within the party. We also explore the historical context of George Washington's farewell address and its enduring relevance to today's political climate.

Resources To Learn More: