In the end

Political Conventions have changed since my grandfather was a delegate to the 1956 Democratic Convention in Chicago, but in many ways a mid-century delegate might be surprised to see how much things have stayed the same.

In 1956, state delegations caucused at their hotels weighing votes as a group, sending messages back and forth to the convention chair before coming to the hall for official business. 1956 was the last time the vice presidential nomination was thrown to the floor for decision. Running mates were chosen by delegates (actually, by party Pooh-Bahs), not by the candidates. Clearly, the current tickets of both parties would be different if this was still the practice.

Thanks to the magic of the Internet, I was able to view some excellent television footage of the 1956 Democratic Convention in Chicago. (Unfortunately, I never caught a glimpse of the dignified delegate from Michigan.) Needless to say, the made-for-TV moment was in its infancy, but I saw a similarity to the mood and behavior of those in attendance then to those who attended the conventions this year.

The vintage footage shows a festive mood and a few comical moments. At one point, in an attempt to limit access to the floor, convention officers declared only delegates and members of brass bands would be granted access to the hall. Brass bands – and in one case, a square dance troop – were used by delegates and campaigns to whip up the crowd. Soon after the new rule was imposed, many folks who never played a single musical note could be seen carrying brass instruments so they could participate in the fracas on the floor.

Modern conventions may lack the drama of the backroom deals of days past, but they still serve a purpose. Our uniquely American political process depends on a single vital ingredient; we, the people. It was by becoming delegates to political conventions that many women were first able to rise to the national stage. Policy shifts on civil rights, changes in how America engages the world and many other crucial decisions of the times were kindled in the debates, discussions and crafting of party platforms at national conventions. This still happens and, one could argue, should still happen at these gatherings.

There is much fluff at modern conventions, but the gatherings of people from the far corners of our nation are, at times, more than sentimental tradition or a four day advertisement for presidential candidates. It is proof voters still hold the power the founding fathers envisioned.

We the people have squandered these opportunities from time to time, but the thousands who came to Denver and St. Paul demonstrate that power is there for the taking. The question to the millions who watched from afar and to every voter in the country is whether you will assume responsibility for electing people or shirk it by failing to cast a ballot.