Now that the midterm elections are over, the final Policy Pub of the Fall 2018 series will look at what’s in store for the nation going forward.
The popular free public forum series presented by the Florida State University College of Social Sciences and Public Policy presents Assistant Professor of Political Science Douglas Ahler to discuss “Unpacking the 2018 Midterm Elections: What Happened and What’s Next?” After the brief talk, the public can ask questions and make comments on the subject.
The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13, at Backwoods Bistro, 401 E. Tennessee St.
Every four years, more than 60 percent of the eligible voting public turns out to cast a vote for president. But control of Congress often hinges on midterm elections, in which only roughly 40 percent of eligible Americans vote. How can we best understand the outcome of the Nov. 6 midterm House and Senate races? What factors generally shape the outcome, and which were especially important this year? Ultimately, how does turnout affect these elections?
After discussing the consistencies and novelties of 2018 vis-à-vis past midterm elections, Ahler will turn to what comes next: What will the relationship be like between the 116th Congress and President Trump? Will government improve, or will gridlock and polarization continue to be the norm? And what, if anything, does 2018 suggest about the upcoming 2020 presidential election?
Doug Ahler’s research focuses on American politics, public opinion, representation and political psychology.
Policy Pubs take place in a relaxed atmosphere in the bar area of Backwoods Bistro at the corner of Tennessee and Gadsden streets. Guests can enjoy food and drink from the menu while listening to and talking about the evening’s topic. Those interested are advised to come early for the best parking and seating.
PLEASE NOTE: The Policy Pub scheduled for Oct. 9, with DeVoe Moore Center Director Sam Staley discussing government consolidation, was postponed due to Hurricane Michael. It will be rescheduled for January 2019 to open the new series of Policy Pub sessions.
For more information about the series, call (850) 644-6284 or visit coss.fsu.edu.