DNC vs. RNC

As we arrived in St. Paul, the differences between the Democratic National Conventions (DNC) and the Republican National Conventions (RNC) slowly revealed themselves. Not only can one see a difference in the ideas of both parties but one can also see the differences in their Conventions. These variations come from a variety of characteristics including: location and openness or lack there of to the public.

I believe one of the main reasons for these differences stem from the location in which both parties chose to host their convention. The Democrats location in Denver, Colorado near the 16th Street Mall created an atmosphere that was both welcoming and easily accessible to the public. This created an atmosphere where delegates, politicians and protestors had access to one another allowing for more dialect as well as confrontation. However, St. Paul/ Minneapolis is a much different atmosphere. The RNC is hosted at the Xcel Center in St. Paul which is surrounded by both an interstate and a river. These two barriers as well as the many barricades that engulf the Convention makes it near impossible for the public to have any type of engagement with the conventions and the delegates.

While in Denver, community members and spectators are able to (in many times not easily) participate in activities surrounding the DNC. These include round table discussions, panels, Obama’s acceptance speech and many others. While at the RNC, we have yet to find any online listing of days events and those that are open to the public. It is much more difficult to find an agenda including activities involving the Presidential Elections. This can be quite disappointing for spectators like myself and residents of the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Although we are quite disappointed with the St. Paul area, we have heard that there is much more commotion and accessibility within the Minneapolis area.

These locations and accessibilities show a view of beliefs and values that each party have. I compliment the Republicans for choosing a city that is currently rebuilding after the I35 bridge collapsed a year prior to the first day of the RNC. This choice shows the pride and persistence to bounce back after such a devastating occurrence as this was. The DNC’s selection encourages political involvement, demonstration and dialogue. These Conventions are a glimpse into the parties goals for the future and a look into the way they plan on accomplishing their objectives.