Have political conventions outlived their usefulness?

HOWARD DEAN

Every four years there is a predictable call, usually from jaded members of the media, to abandon the quadrennial political conventions. They argue that the rhetoric and pageantry are empty and that there is too little drama in the all-but-assured nominations. While there is a kernel of truth to these arguments, political conventions serve useful purposes and will be with us a while longer.

The conventions — which I predict will be three-day events from now on — allow each party to directly present their message and candidates to the American people without media interpretation. Appalled as I was by the disingenuous content of Paul Ryan’s speech, the American people deserve the chance to have an unfiltered look at the candidates as they wish to represent themselves.

The networking that takes place outside of the halls is essential for future party-building as activists and party stalwarts build relationships.