What to expect for RNC, DNC events ahead of November elections

TYLER, Texas ( KETK ) – Election season is heating up just ahead of the Republican and Democratic National Conventions.

Republicans will host their convention in Milwaukee starting on Monday, with former President Trump at the forefront.

“He’s in really good position,” said Dr. Kenneth A. Wink, Professor of Public Administration, UT Tyler.

One of the biggest questions going into the event is who will be Trumps Vice Presidential pick?

Wink said North Dakota governor Doug Burgum, Florida senator Marco Rubio, and Ohio senator JD Vance are names to look out for.

“I think his primary focus is someone he can work with,” Wink adds.

At the convention, Republicans will also focus on their platform.

“They’ll be a discussion of economic policy, tax policy,” said Wink. “I’m sure you’ll hear a lot about border security and migrant crime.”

The Democratic convention starts on Aug. 19 in Chicago. This comes as several Democratic lawmakers are calling on President Biden to step down.

“We know that they’re a lot of people that think Biden is not likely to win,” said Wink.

Wink said noted the pressure is on the Democrats to commit to a candidate.

“It’s anybody’s guess on who the nominee is going to be,” he said.

He added that the party will either stick with Biden or go with Vice President Kamala Harris.

“If the nominee turns out to be Kamala Harris, it’s still going to be tough because you have to define to voters who she really is in just a couple of months.”

Democrats are expected to defend their handling of the nation’s biggest problems, especially if Biden is the nominee.

“Biden has to focus on what he’s going to do economically in a second term,” said Wink. “He’s got to focus on what he’s going to do to improve the border situation. Certainly, they’ll talk about foreign policy and emphasize support for Ukraine.”

Come November, Wink said the race could be tight.

“I’m one that continues to think it’s going to be a closer election than what most people think,” said Wink.

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