The History of Presidential Debates, 1960–Present
Thursday, 12 Sep 2024 at 6:00 pm – 2630 Memorial Union
2024 Constitution Day LectureOne of the rituals of American democracy is quadrennial debates between the Democratic and Republican nominees for president. Yet this particular tradition did not evolve until 1960 and was almost not repeated. This lecture will cover the history of presidential debates and what we’ve seen so far in the 2024 election season.Dr. Karen M. Kedrowski is Director of the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics and Professor of Political Science at Iowa State University. The Catt Center conducts research on women and politics, with a focus on Iowa; and promotes civic engagement. In addition to her duties at the Catt Center, Dr. Kedrowski teaches courses in American Politics and conducts research on women in American politics and civic engagement. She joined the Iowa State faculty in January 2019.Dr. Kedrowski is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities and the University of Oklahoma, Norman. Prior to coming to Iowa State, she spent 24 years at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, South Carolina, where she served in many roles, including Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. She also received Winthrop’s highest faculty honor, Distinguished Professor, in 2011.This lecture is available to view on the Available Recordings page.2024 Constitution Day LectureOne of the rituals of American democracy is quadrennial debates between the Democratic and Republican nominees for president. Yet this particular tradition did not evolve until 1960 and was almost not repeated. This lecture will cover the history of presidential debates and what we’ve seen so far in the 2024 election season.Dr. Karen M. Kedrowski is Director of the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics and Professor of Political Science at Iowa State University. The Catt Center conducts research on women and politics, with a focus on Iowa; and promotes civic engagement. In addition to her duties at the Catt Center, Dr. Kedrowski teaches courses in American Politics and conducts research on women in American politics and civic engagement. She joined the Iowa State faculty in January 2019.Dr. Kedrowski is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities and the University of Oklahoma, Norman. Prior to coming to Iowa State, she spent 24 years at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, South Carolina, where she served in many roles, including Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. She also received Winthrop’s highest faculty honor, Distinguished Professor, in 2011.This lecture is available to view on the Available Recordings page.
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