What is an Open Convention?

Our political experts can help if you're covering and need a deep look at what might happen this August.

Jul 22, 2024

2 min

In the ever-evolving landscape of American politics, the concept of an open convention stands as a pivotal event that can reshape the trajectory of a presidential election. This topic is particularly newsworthy because it signifies a departure from the traditional, predetermined nominating processes, opening up a dynamic and potentially unpredictable political battleground. Understanding an open convention is crucial for the public as it underscores the democratic principles of debate, decision-making, and party unity, or lack thereof. The implications of an open convention extend to voter engagement, party strategies, and the broader political discourse. Key story angles for journalists could include:

Historical Context and Precedents: Exploring past instances of open conventions in American history, their outcomes, and how they have influenced subsequent elections.
Mechanics and Process: Detailing how an open convention operates, the rules and procedures involved, and the roles of delegates and party officials.
Political Strategy and Maneuvering: Analyzing the strategies employed by candidates and their campaigns during an open convention, including coalition-building, negotiations, and power plays.
Impact on Voter Perception: Investigating how an open convention affects public opinion, voter trust, and engagement with the political process.
Potential Outcomes and Scenarios: Examining the possible scenarios that can emerge from an open convention, including contested nominations, brokered deals, and unexpected candidacies.
Expert Insights and Analysis: Featuring commentary and analysis from political scientists, historians, and party insiders on the significance and implications of an open convention.

By focusing on the intricacies and potential ramifications of an open convention, journalists can provide the public with a comprehensive understanding of this critical aspect of the American political system, offering diverse and compelling angles for coverage.

Connect with an expert if you need to know more about Open Conventions:

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Photo credit: PBS Learning Media

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Oct 5, 2026

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Pneumonic Plague: An Ancient Killer That Has Never Completely Disappeared

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25 Years Later: How 9/11 Changed the World

On September 11, 2001, the world watched as nearly 3,000 people were killed in terrorist attacks that would become one of the defining moments of the 21st century. Twenty-five years later, 9/11 remains much more than a moment in history. Its consequences continue to shape the world we live in. The attacks transformed national security and intelligence, changed how people travel, reshaped airport and border security, and ushered in a new era of surveillance and counterterrorism. They also profoundly influenced American foreign policy, leading to wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and decades of debate about security, military intervention and America's role in the world. The effects were cultural as well as political. September 11 changed how a generation viewed safety, terrorism and global conflict. It also sparked difficult conversations about civil liberties, immigration, religious tolerance and the balance between individual freedoms and collective security. For younger generations, 9/11 is increasingly an event learned about rather than remembered. For millions of others, memories of where they were and what they saw that day remain remarkably vivid. A quarter-century later, the anniversary offers an opportunity to remember those who were lost, recognize the first responders and countless others affected by the attacks, and examine how the decisions made in their aftermath continue to influence our world. Experts in history, political science, international relations, national security, terrorism, public policy and sociology can help provide perspective on September 11, its legacy and how the world has changed 25 years later. Connect with our experts today: View all of your experts here at www.expertfile.com

Sep 3, 2026

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More Than a Long Weekend: Why Labor Day Still Matters in America

For millions of Americans, Labor Day means the unofficial end of summer , a final long weekend before schools are back in full swing and the fall routine takes over. But behind the barbecues, travel and end-of-summer sales is a holiday rooted in the history of American workers and the transformation of the workplace. Observed on the first Monday in September, Labor Day recognizes the social and economic achievements of American workers. Its origins date to the labor movement of the late 19th century, with the first Labor Day celebration held in New York City on September 5, 1882. In 1894, it became a federal holiday. More than 130 years later, Labor Day remains an opportunity to look at the role work plays in American life, particularly at a time when the workplace itself is undergoing enormous change. Artificial intelligence and automation are reshaping jobs and industries. Remote and hybrid work have changed where and how millions of people work. Employers continue to navigate workforce shortages, recruitment and retention, while workers are reconsidering expectations around compensation, flexibility, benefits and work-life balance. Labor Day can also open the door to broader conversations about the American labor movement, organized labor, workplace protections, wages and the economic contribution of workers. For journalists, that makes the holiday much more than a date on the calendar. It's a timely opportunity to explore both how work in America has changed and where it is heading next. Experts across economics, business, labor relations, history, human resources, public policy and emerging technology can provide valuable perspective on Labor Day and the changing American workplace. Journalists covering Labor Day and looking for expert perspective on the history of the holiday, labor and employment, workplace trends, organized labor, artificial intelligence and the future of work can connect with experts directly through ExpertFile profiles below:

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