Presidential historian on how the DNC’s ‘unconventional convention’ might unfold
ABC News’ Linsey Davis speaks with presidential historian Joanne Freeman about what to expect at the DNC in Chicago and the possibility of a contested convention.
July 22, 2024
As the Democratic National Convention approaches, all eyes are on how the party will navigate the unprecedented challenges presented by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. With the convention set to take place virtually for the first time in history, many are wondering what this means for the future of political conventions and the impact it may have on the presidential election.
To gain some insights into this historic moment, we turned to a presidential historian for their perspective on the potential unfolding of the DNC’s unconventional convention. According to the historian, this year’s virtual convention presents both challenges and opportunities for the Democratic Party.
One of the main challenges facing the DNC is how to recreate the energy and excitement of a traditional in-person convention in a virtual setting. Political conventions are typically a time for party unity, where delegates come together to rally behind their nominee and energize voters for the upcoming election. Without the physical presence of delegates and supporters, the DNC will need to find new ways to engage and inspire viewers watching from home.
However, the historian also sees potential opportunities in this unconventional format. With a virtual convention, the DNC has the ability to reach a much larger audience than ever before. By live-streaming speeches and events online, the party can connect with voters across the country in real-time, potentially increasing voter turnout and engagement.
Additionally, the historian notes that a virtual convention may allow for a more streamlined and focused message from the Democratic Party. Without the distractions and logistical challenges of an in-person event, speakers can deliver their messages directly to viewers without interruption. This could help the party communicate its platform and priorities more effectively to voters.
Overall, while the DNC’s unconventional convention presents new challenges for the party, it also offers unique opportunities to engage with voters in innovative ways. As the presidential historian suggests, this historic moment could pave the way for future conventions to embrace technology and reach a wider audience in the years to come. Only time will tell how successful the DNC will be in navigating these uncharted waters, but one thing is certain: this year’s convention will be one for the history books.
