A downsized Democratic National Convention still provides an opportunity to examine issues in Milwaukee and Wisconsin, many of which resonate nationally. UW-Milwaukee faculty experts can help reporters covering the DNC tell stories about the 2020 campaign and a range of other topics affecting the city, region and state. They include:

• The DNC was supposed to provide a huge boost to the Milwaukee economy. Valeriy Sibilkov, an associate professor of finance, can discuss the economic fallout from the downsized convention and the cancellations of Summerfest and Wisconsin State Fair, the largest annual summertime tourist draws to the region.
• David Pate, chair of the social work department, can provide perspective about the history of segregation in Milwaukee and its influence today on the city on issues including unemployment, affordable housing, patterns of COVID-19 infection and access to health care.
• Socialism has deep roots in Milwaukee. Aims McGuinness and Joel Rast can talk about the political influence of Socialist Party mayors in Milwaukee in the 20th century, as well as the lasting ties to the city’s accessible lakefront and expansive park system.
• Immigration historian Rachel Ida Buff can discuss the impact that immigrant populations have had in Wisconsin. Her professional expertise focuses on the histories of deportation policy and immigrant rights.

UWM political scientists also can offer analysis and context on many issues. For instance, Thomas Holbrook can discuss the impact that a political convention can have on voters locally, regionally, statewide and nationally in a presidential race. Kathy Dolan can speak about the significance of Joe Biden’s vice presidential selection on the 2020 campaign.

Full lists of experts can be found on UWM Report and the university’s DNC 2020 website. Please contact the UWM Media Services team at media-services-team@uwm.edu if you need help scheduling an interview.