Political commentator James Hagstrom delivered an insightful presentation on the American democratic process and the crucial role of media and civil society in promoting effective governance in a virtual dialogue hosted by the US Embassy yesterday.
The event, which took place via Zoom from 2 pm to 3 pm, was a timely exploration of the dynamics at play in the lead-up to the 2024 United States elections. Hagstrom’s discussion focused on the Democratic National Convention and its significance in the broader context of American politics, highlighting the interplay between political conventions, campaign finance, and public engagement.
Hagstrom began by addressing the historical evolution of political conventions in the US, noting their transition from closed-door gatherings of party elites to more inclusive events shaped by party members through primary elections. This shift, he explained, was a response to earlier 20th-century progressivism aimed at reducing corruption and increasing democratic participation.