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Virtual Political Conventions Becoming a Realistic Alternative

Steve Redisch

   WASHINGTON - If the coronavirus pandemic forces large-scale events to
   be either discouraged or cancelled this summer, American political
   conventions may be among the country's cultural casualties.

   Instead of the four-day festival that fills sports arenas, a virtual
   convention would connect thousands of delegates from all 50 states,
   plus U.S. territories, to cast votes on everything from political party
   rules to selecting who will run for president -- all on a Zoom-like
   platform.

   Currently, the two parties are scheduled to hold back-to-back
   conventions in mid-to late August, with the Democrats convening in
   Milwaukee, Wisconsin, followed by the Republicans gathering in
   Charlotte, North Carolina. Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee
   Joe Biden has hinted that his party may opt for a virtual convention if
   the pandemic continues to rage on, while President Donald Trump has
   been emphatic in saying his party would gather to nominate him for a
   second term.

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