Park University Political Science Experts to Present Discussion on U.S. Presidential Election Implications

October 3, 2024 — Just six days prior to a presidential election, the results of which could impact issues such as the economy, health care, immigration and foreign policy, two Park University political science experts will hold a discussion on “The 2024 U.S. General Election: Public Policy Implications in January 2025” on Wednesday, Oct. 30, starting at 6:30 p.m. in the Jenkin and Barbara David Theater within Alumni Hall on the University’s flagship Parkville Campus. The event is open to the public and will also be livestreamed at parkumedia.com.

While much of the focus in the mainstream media centers on the “horse race” aspect of the 2024 presidential election, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump also present widely different visions for the country. Domestically, economic and social policy could look vastly different, from inflation to abortion. Internationally, conflict still rages in Gaza, Ukraine and Lebanon.

According to a recent Pew Research Center survey of registered voters, the economy, health care, Supreme Court appointment, foreign policy, violent crime, immigration, gun policy, abortion, racial and ethnic inequality, and climate change are the top 10 issues that are very important issues to their vote.

Matt Harris, Ph.D. (left), associate professor of political science, and Jack MacLennan, Ph.D. (right), who served as associate professor of political science and graduate program director for Park’s national security studies program before transitioning to the role of senior director for strategic initiatives and communications, and special assistant to the president for governance in August, will address these issues and more. At the conclusion of their presentation, they will take questions from the audience.