A vanity fair. And an expensive one at that.

[cornermouse]

I've watched, ahem, several conventions over the years. When you're all over the thrill of the convention, think about the amount of money that they are spending on what is basically nothing more than formalized fluff, puff, and party-time.

Unlike the past, no business will actually be done at the convention of either party. They have become increasingly restrictive to the point that no one will be able to raise their own issues, as has been done in the past, example being when Mississippi's, I think it was, black delegation managed to get official recognition and oust the all white delegation for the next election. Things like that are just not going to happen any more.

They say its to introduce Kerry to the nation. Well, I think that most of us who plan to vote already know who Kerry is.

In my opinion, the National Conventions (both parties) have become little more than vanity fairs with outrageous price tags.

[spooky3]

1. The polls show that most people DON'T think they know Kerry.

edited to provide link to today's poll:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A16026-2004Jul26.html

I don't think I would enjoy attending the National Convention either, but that just means people like you and me should not attend.

There are MANY other places to make change happen. This convention is about bringing people of diverse views together in a common goal of defeating the (insert epithet here) in the current administration. If they want to have a party so that is more likely to happen, then PARTY ON.

[cornermouse]

2. And if they're spending money like this before they

get in office, we're suppopsed to think that they're going to suddenly become fiscally responsible when they get into office? Note that I include both parties in this.

At this point, we desperately need some fiscal responsibility in the White House.

[spooky3]

3. I agree about the need for fiscal responsibility, but most of the costs of

this convention are coming directly out of the pockets of those in attendance. I know that there was no offer to pay our way to the district or state conventions.

[ferretzz]

5. Much of the cost is paid by special interests and taxpayers

Although delegates may pay their personal expenses, that is only a small part of the cost of the convention. Both conventions have corporate sponsors including regulated companies (e.g., investment banks and telecommunications) and major defense contractors; many of which make tax deductible donations in excess of $1 million. Since the contributions are not made to the campaign of the person who everyone knows is the preordained nominee they are not subject to campaign finance limitations. Just another way special interests have of using money to gain access to elected officials and influence public policy.

I believe conventions do have a purpose, but it is troublesome that they have evolved into huge spectacles financed largely by special interest contributions.

(Then there are the several million dollars of tax money used to pay for security)

[spooky3]

6. do you have a link documenting all this? and welcome to DU!

[NWHarkness]

4. The convention is not just what you see on TV

There are a lot of other things that go on; organizational meetings, networking, training sessions for candidates and activists.

It's not just a TV show, it is a convention, just as other organizations hold.

[saracat]

7. Conventions are controlled by the Buttonmakers lobby!