Informed Civic Engagement: Three Must-Watch Nights of the Republican and Democratic Conventions

A few weeks ago, my son texted me, asking if I was watching the presidential debate. I told him, "Yes," and he replied, "I had to watch it live, or I would never hear the truth." I'm proud that he understands the biases that exist but disappointed that most of us are more comfortable watching our favorite channel or political "expert" for their version of the truth. Why do we allow ourselves to get caught up in negative soundbites and social posts designed to scare and divide? Instead of giving them more ratings, we should focus our attention on making up our minds about what we are seeing and hearing. With the upcoming national elections looming ahead, we can start by watching a few nights of the Republican and Democratic National Conventions.

These events are more than just political pageantry, although there will be plenty of it mixed in - they’re also crucial moments that will help shape the future of our country. By choosing to tune in live or watch the full recorded version (without the added “insights”), we will become more informed and educated citizens, ready to make educated decisions come election time. We will hear firsthand about each party’s priorities, values, and the vision they have for our country.

This post will highlight the top three nights to watch during both conventions, outline what you’ll learn by watching, and explain why you should watch with an open mind to form your own opinions instead of relying on political (or family) commentators to guide your choice for the next President of the United States.

Top Three Nights to Watch at Both Conventions

1. Opening Night

Why Watch: The first night sets the tone for the entire convention and introduces key policies and priorities, setting the stage for the entire event.

What to Expect: You’ll hear an overview of the party’s platform from high-profile speakers and their unified look at the future of the party and country.

2. Vice Presidential Nominee’s Speech Night

Why Watch: The third night features the vice-presidential nominee’s speech, which is critical for understanding their role in the future administration and vision for the country.

What to Expect: Insight into the vice-presidential nominee’s qualifications, policy priorities, and their alignment with the presidential candidate’s vision.

3. Final Night

Why Watch: The presidential nominee’s acceptance speech is the highlight of both conventions. This is your chance to hear their vision, commitment, and passion to serve as the future President of the United States.

What to Expect: You will witness a comprehensive, inspirational speech designed to further educate and unify the party and persuade undecided voters.

What You Will Learn

Party Priorities and Platforms

Detail: Watching both conventions gives you access to each party’s platform and policy priorities. By watching, you’ll gain a clear understanding of what each party stands for and their plans.
Benefit: This knowledge enables you to make informed decisions based on the issues that matter most to you.

Each Candidate’s Background and Vision

Detail: You’ll hear the presidential and vice-presidential candidates as they share their vision and goals with the world.
Benefit: Listening, watching their body language, and seeing how others in the room are reacting helps you assess their strengths, weaknesses, and commitment to the policies and platform.

Whether the Party is Aligned on the Future

Detail: Presidential conventions show how unified or divided each party is behind the scenes.
Benefit: Understanding party unity helps measure the potential effectiveness and stability of each party’s ability to govern.

Why You Should Watch with an Open Mind

You Will Become a More Informed Voter

Reason: The Democratic and Republican Parties we see today do not have the same priorities they did 100 years ago. A lot has changed — including things many of us may not be aware of. Both conventions offer a comprehensive look at the current policies and platforms of each party. Understanding what’s being prioritized for each party can help you make more informed choices during upcoming elections.

Outcome: Instead of relying on soundbites or political ads that inflame your emotions, you’ll gain personal insights and knowledge to lean on when casting your next vote.

You Will Become More Civically Engaged

Reason: Watching both conventions will increase your political knowledge and encourage you to participate in the democratic process (voting, volunteering, or speaking out about the issues you care the most about).

Outcome: You will gain a greater understanding of why your investment in the political process is so important.

You Will Be Introduced to Emerging Party Leaders

Reason: Conventions typically feature speeches from rising stars to share a glimpse into who our future political leaders may be. With every new face comes emerging trends every voter should know about.

Outcome: You will be more aware of who may become the next generation of leaders and be on the frontlines of potential policy shifts.

Watching the Democratic and Republican conventions is not just for political scientists or enthusiasts, it’s for every American who wants to be an informed citizen before they cast their next ballot. If more Americans get involved by watching these conventions, we can expect a more engaged electorate, greater voter turnout, and robust public discussions. However, if we choose to ignore these informative public events, we risk misinformation, and apathy, and silence our voice.

By tuning into these key moments, you can gain a deeper understanding of the political landscape and the choices you will face in the upcoming election. So, take a break from your favorite Netflix series and invest in the future of your country, by watching these key messages, whether live or recorded. Your vote matters and your choice to learn more about each candidate is crucial.

MARK THESE DATES FOR 2024!

July 15–18, 2024

The Republican National Convention will be held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. For up-to-date information about the opening, vice-presidential nominee’s speech, or final night, or to watch live click here. Most major television networks will also carry the convention live, or it can be viewed later on YouTube.

August 19–22, 2024

The Democratic National Convention will be held in Chicago, Illinois. For up-to-date information about the opening, vice-presidential nominee’s speech, final night or to watch live click here. Most major television networks will also carry the convention live, or it can be viewed later on YouTube.

NEXT: Check out this post to learn how to strengthen your critical thinking skills!