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University of Delaware's Center for Political Communication unveils new vision, goals and leadership
The University of Delaware's Center for Political Communication (CPC) is excited to announce a transformative new chapter with the unveiling of its updated vision, goals and leadership for 2024 and beyond. Since its founding in 2010, the CPC has been at the forefront of innovative public opinion research on politics and media, always with an eye towards protecting and improving American democracy. With this new chapter, the CPC is actively integrating political psychology (the study of how and why people make political judgments and form political beliefs) into the study of public opinion and media effects. “Our vision is responsible democracy-centered journalism informed by our rigorous research on Americans’ thoughts, feelings, knowledge and behaviors,” says Dr. Dannagal Young, incoming Director of the Center for Political Communication. “In a few weeks, will be releasing new data on Americans’ knowledge and beliefs about abortion – an issue on which there are widespread misperceptions. Later this fall we are also launching an interdisciplinary initiative to understand the relationship between Americans’ personal wellbeing and their support for democratic institutions and norms.” By producing high-quality research at the intersection of media, politics and psychology, the CPC strives to elevate public conversations and inform news coverage to improve democratic health. Additionally, the Center seeks to serve as a vital resource for journalists, offering expert commentary and empirical data to encourage democratically responsible journalism. With this new direction comes new leadership, bringing together a team of esteemed scholars from Political Science, Communication and Journalism: Director Dr. Dannagal Young, Professor in the Departments of Communication and Political Science and International Relations, TED speaker, and author of Wrong: How Media, Politics, and Identity Drive our Appetite for Misinformation (Johns Hopkins, 2023) and Irony and Outrage: The Polarized Landscape of Rage, Fear, and Laugher in the U.S. (Oxford, 2020). Areas of Expertise: Misinformation, Political Satire, American Politics, the Psychology of Media Effects. Associate Director Dr. Erin Cassese, Professor in the Departments of Political Science and International Relations, Communication, and Women and Gender Studies, co-author of Abortion Attitudes and Polarization in the American Electorate (Cambridge, 2024). Areas of Expertise: Gender, Abortion, Public Opinion, Campaigns and Elections. Director of Research Dr. Phil Jones, Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science and International Relations, current Editor-in-Chief at Public Opinion Quarterly. Areas of Expertise: Electoral Politics and Public Opinion. Director of Engagement Dr. Lindsay Hoffman, Associate Professor in the Departments of Communication and Political Science and International Relations, and research leader for the American Council of Trustees and Alumni two-year Braver Angels project funded by the John Templeton Foundation. Areas of Expertise: Communication across Difference, Media Technologies, and Political Participation. Delaware Politics Director Dr. Paul Brewer, Professor in the Departments of Communication and Political Science and International Relations, co-author of Science in the Media: Popular Images and Public Perceptions (Routledge, 2021), former editor of the International Journal of Public Opinion Research. Areas of Expertise: Delaware Politics, Media effects, Political and Science Communication, Public Opinion, and Perceptions of Science. Delaware Debate Director: Nancy Karibjanian, Director of the University of Delaware’s Journalism program, faculty member in the Department of Communication, and former Director of the CPC with 30 years of broadcast experience. Areas of Expertise: Broadcast Journalism, and Delaware Debates. The CPC’s goals reflect its commitment to a vibrant and collaborative research environment that engages scholars and students at all levels. The CPC will continue to spearhead interdisciplinary research across the domains of communication, political psychology, public opinion, media effects, and public policy. The Center offers applied research opportunities for both graduate and undergraduate students in communication and political science, as well as an undergraduate minor in political communication, thus mentoring the next generation of scholars and practitioners. The CPC is proud to put its academic research to work in service of American democratic health.
Low Turnout Expected for Updated COVID Vaccine
Dr. Martine Hackett, associate professor and chair of Hofstra’s Department of Population Health, told Newsday that she believes many people will not get the recently updated vaccine for COVID-19. Less than a quarter of adults and less than 15 percent of children received last year’s vaccine. “I would predict that there would be much less of an uptake, in part because folks have gotten COVID in big numbers over the last few months; there was a summer surge. So some people might feel like they don’t need the vaccine because they feel protected from their recent infection,” she said. “But just in general, there’s just a lack of urgency around the need to get the most recent version of the vaccine.” Dr. Hackett's research focuses on public health and health inequities, particularly in the American suburbs and minority communities. She's available to speak with media - simply click on her icon now to arrange an interview today.
ExpertSpotlight: The History of America's Steel Industry
The steel industry has been a cornerstone of American industrialization, shaping the nation's economy, infrastructure, and workforce. As the backbone of major industries from construction to transportation, the history of steel production in America is more than just a tale of technological advancement—it's a story of social transformation, labor movements, and global competition. This topic is crucial as it offers insights into the evolution of American manufacturing, the rise and decline of industrial cities, and the ongoing challenges in maintaining domestic production in a globalized economy. The relevance of the steel industry today is underscored by its connection to contemporary issues such as trade policies, environmental sustainability, and the future of American manufacturing. Potential story angles for journalists include: The role of the steel industry in shaping American cities and communities The impact of global trade policies on the American steel industry The evolution of labor movements within the steel industry Technological innovations and their influence on steel production Environmental challenges and sustainability efforts in steel manufacturing The future of the steel industry in the context of American infrastructure projects Connect with an expert about the History of America's Steel Industry: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com
Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday in September, is more than just a long weekend marking the end of summer—it is a day dedicated to honoring the social and economic achievements of American workers. The history of Labor Day is deeply intertwined with the labor movement and the fight for fair working conditions, making it a day of both reflection and celebration. This event is significant not only because it recognizes the contributions of workers to the nation's prosperity but also because it sheds light on ongoing issues such as workers' rights, labor laws, and the future of work in an increasingly automated and globalized economy. Potential story angles: The origins of Labor Day and the labor movement in the United States The evolution of labor laws and workers' rights since the 19th century The impact of automation and globalization on the American workforce The role of unions in modern-day labor movements The intersection of labor rights and social justice issues How Labor Day is celebrated across different regions and industries in the U.S. Connect with an expert about the History of Labour Day: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com
Election 2024: Providing insight during a pivotal campaign season
Voter behavior and emotion, civil discourse, the spread of misinformation, the role of gender and race in politics and conspiracy theories are among the many topics University of Delaware experts can comment on during this final stretch of the 2024 campaign. David Redlawsk Professor of Political Science and International Relations Expertise: Political psychologist who studies voter behavior and emotion, focuses on how voters process political information to make their decisions. He has written several books on politics, worked behind the scenes on campaigns and ran for local office. Dannagal Young Professor of Communication Director of the Center for Political Communication Expertise: The spread of misinformation in politics and the intersection of entertainment and information, with an emphasis on political satire, political media effects, public opinion and the psychology of political humor. Kassra Oskooii Professor of Political Science and International Relations Expertise: Focuses on the interplay between the contextual and psychological determinants of political opinions and behaviors of high and low status group members. Erin Cassese Professor of Political Science and International Relations Expertise: Explores the behavior of women as voters and candidates for political office, and studies political psychology, gender stereotypes, public opinion, elections and the intersection of religion and politics. Yasser Payne Professor of Sociology and Africana Studies Expertise: Research program also focuses on Black racial identity; street identity; economic and educational opportunity or the impact of structural violence. Tim Shaffer SNF Ithaca Director Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Chair of Civil Discourse Expertise: Civil discourse in politics; can talk about partisanship, polarization and their impact on media outlets. advancement of democratic practices by focusing on the role of civic professionals in institutional settings. Alice Ba Professor and acting chair, Political Science and International Relations. Expertise: Her work on the international relations of East and Southeast Asia examines the structures, processes, and systemic effects of regionalism and cooperative regime building, as well as relations between smaller and major powers. Joanne Miller Professor of American Politics, Research Methods and Political Psychology Expertise: Studies political psychology, with an emphasis on political propaganda, misinformation and conspiracy theories. Muqtedar Khan Professor of Comparative Politics, International Relations and Political Theory Expertise: Issues surrounding U.S. foreign policy in the Muslim World as well as national security and counter-terrorism. To speak with any of these experts, simply visit their profle and click on the "contact" button, which will send a message directly to them (while also copying UD's media relations team).
Presidential scholar Meena Bose was interviewed by WNYW Fox 5 about the Democratic National Convention, and why New York City Mayor Eric Adams may not have been asked to take on a more prominent role. Dr. Bose is a professor of political science, executive dean of the Public Policy and Public Service program, and executive director of the Kalikow Center for the Study of the American Presidency. Dr. Meena Bose is available to speak with media - simply click on her icon now to arrange an interview today.
The History of the Electoral College
As one of the most debated and misunderstood components of American democracy, the Electoral College plays a crucial role in determining the outcome of U.S. presidential elections. Understanding the history and purpose of the Electoral College is essential for grasping how American elections work and why this system continues to generate controversy. This topic is newsworthy not only because of its impact on election results but also due to ongoing discussions about its relevance in a modern democracy, potential reforms, and its influence on campaign strategies. The Electoral College intersects with broader societal issues such as representation, voter equity, and the balance of power between states, which include: The origins of the Electoral College and the Founding Fathers’ intentions How the Electoral College has influenced the outcomes of past presidential elections The ongoing debate over whether the Electoral College should be reformed or abolished The impact of the Electoral College on voter turnout and representation The role of swing states and how they shape campaign strategies Legal challenges and Supreme Court decisions related to the Electoral College Covering the election? Let us help! Connect with a political expert about the History of the Electoral College: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com Photo Credit: Clay Banks
Amid Detainees' Release, Putin Flaunts Power and Flouts Western Influence
On August 1, the United States, Russia, Germany and three other European nations engaged in an historic 24-person East-West prisoner exchange. The largest such swap since the end of the Cold War, the multi-country deal secured the release of three prominent American detainees: Wall Street Journal correspondent Evan Gershkovich, corporate security executive Paul Whelan and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty editor Alsu Kurmasheva. It also freed a dozen Russian opposition leaders, incarcerated in their native country for challenging Vladimir Putin and his authoritarian regime. Lynne Hartnett, PhD, is the chair of Villanova University’s Department of History and an expert on modern Russia, protest movements and dissidents in exile. Recently, she shared some insights on the Kremlin's decision to release the American and Russian prisoners—as well as the egotism, oppressive tendencies and political posturing that drove their detention. Q: The arrests and sentencings of Gershkovich, Whelan and Kurmasheva have been described as "outrageous," "a mockery of justice" and reflective of "a total disregard for basic freedoms." What prompted Putin and the Russian government to detain these individuals? Dr. Hartnett: For Putin, seizing Gershkovich, Whelan and Kurmasheva was a power play. They were pawns for him to use when he deemed it convenient. If they could be used in a prisoner swap, they would be. But if that time never arrived, their incarceration, suffering and even potential deaths were inconsequential to him. Their arrests were also a signal that, in Russia, Putin's authority is uncontested. These were American citizens, and around the world, a U.S. passport opens doors: It holds power; it provides access; and it affords its holder protection. But the arrests of Gershkovich, Whelan and Kurmasheva were Putin’s attempt to demonstrate the limits of American influence. They were meant as a signal that, in Russia, a U.S. passport becomes meaningless if it serves Putin to make it so. Q: In recent years, the Russian government has seemingly worked to rehabilitate the reputations of figures like Josef Stalin, who infamously used the Soviet Gulag to stifle opposition and criticism. Is Putin's use of detentions as a political cudgel similar? DH: The show trials of the Stalinist era are frequently referenced. However, it should be stressed that those were largely intended for domestic consumption. They were used to justify the Communist elites' repression of fellow citizens by broadcasting "evidence" that enemies lurked within. The trials of Americans like Gershkovich and Brittney Griner [a professional basketball player detained on smuggling charges] were designed to show the world, not just Russians, that Putin's regime would not be cowed—even if the person being tried had fame and a powerful enterprise, like the Wall Street Journal or the WNBA, supporting them. Q: The New York Times recently ran a piece on the Russian dissidents released, claiming "hopes are high [they] will breathe new life into a fragmented opposition force." What do you anticipate these political players' activism will look like in the coming years, especially in exile? DH: As in the Imperial and Soviet periods, Russian censorship prevents any news or opinions that are not the government's from coming to light. As Putin has dismantled political opposition in Russia and tightened his grip on any vestiges of civil society in the country, there is little hope that a powerful opposition movement can gain momentum without outside support. This is where the Russian dissidents living abroad come in. They will ensure that a vision for another type of Russia is articulated. At the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th centuries, political exiles smuggled illegal newspapers and journals into the Russian empire to instill hope in their compatriots, to give them some indication that a nation beyond the autocracy was achievable. This, in my opinion, is the role that Russian dissidents living in exile must have today. They must provide the vision. They must provide the hope. While they cannot change the system on their own—they need a movement en masse—the dissidents abroad are needed to demonstrate that a nation without Putin and his repressive regime is possible. This is certainly not an easy venture, and it will require extraordinary sacrifices to be made a reality. However, it may be the Russian people's only hope.
ChristianaCare Nurses Inducted as American Academy of Nursing Fellows
In recognition of their extraordinary impact on the nursing profession, two ChristianaCare nurses have been named as Fellows of the American Academy of Nursing (AAN). This prestigious recognition highlights their significant contributions to nursing leadership, innovation and health care policy. Michelle Collins, DNP, APRN, CNS, ACNS-BC, NPD-BC, NEA-BC, LSSBB, currently serves as vice president of Nursing Professional Excellence at ChristianaCare. Throughout her accomplished 30-year career, Collins has played a crucial role in improving how nurses practice and learn. Her leadership was significant in achieving ChristianaCare’s third Magnet® designation, highlighting her commitment to excellence. Collins’ initiatives, including pioneering a Virtual Acute Care Nursing model and securing a $1.5 million grant for nursing technology integration, have set new standards in health care innovation. Danielle Sarik, Ph.D., APRN, CPNP-PC, is a nurse scientist consultant at ChristianaCare. Her research contributions have been integral in shaping policies that improve health care outcomes for children and families. Sarik is renowned for developing and implementing the Baby Steps model, recognized by the AAN as an Edge Runner designee. This pioneering transition of care approach addresses health equity for neonatal patients and families following discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit. “Induction into the Academy represents the highest honor in nursing,” said AAN President Linda Scott. “Earning the Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN) credential is a significant recognition of one’s accomplishments and signifies the future impact they will make in collaboration with their colleagues in the Academy.”
#ExpertSpotlight: The History of DNC Conventions in America
As one of the most significant political events in American history, the Democratic National Convention (DNC) has shaped the political landscape and influenced presidential elections for over a century. Understanding the history of DNC conventions offers a window into the evolution of American politics, party ideologies, and electoral strategies. This topic is newsworthy not only because of its historical significance but also due to its ongoing impact on contemporary political discourse, party unity, and voter mobilization. Furthermore, the DNC conventions reflect broader societal changes, such as shifts in public opinion, the role of media in politics, and the influence of grassroots movements, which include: The evolution of the DNC’s role in shaping party platforms and political agendas Key historical moments from past DNC conventions that defined U.S. politics The impact of DNC conventions on voter engagement and turnout The role of media coverage in shaping public perceptions of the DNC How grassroots movements and protests have influenced DNC outcomes The significance of keynote speeches and how they have launched political careers By covering these angles, journalists can provide their audiences with a comprehensive look at the history of these important conventions and topics readers, listeners and viewers want to know more about. Connect with a political expert about the History of DNC Conventions: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com Photo Credit: Kelly Sikkema