Election 2020

We are living in extraordinary times. The historic convergence of social, economic, and public health challenges has profoundly impacted the lives of millions of Americans. In the midst of great uncertainty, the 2020 U.S. presidential election will be perhaps the most important in our lifetimes. Will Donald J. Trump win re-election amidst high unemployment, deep political polarization, and the COVID-19 pandemic that has upended life as we know it? Or will Joe Biden and a team of Democrats prevail? We will assemble a wide range of expert speakers--including preeminent political, business, foreign policy, and academic leaders--to explore these questions, and more, as we seek to cultivate a broad and informed view of this pivotal election. Each week, the course will examine major topics at stake for the country. Anticipated topics include: the nation¿s coronavirus response; widening inequality across America; racial violence and nationwide protests; the role of technology and media in the election; the state of our economy; the Supreme Court and the rule of law; education policy; climate change; foreign policy; and voting rights. Elements used in grading: Attendance. Cross-listed with the School of Education (EDUC 157).