Capitol News

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, Michigan State University faculty and experts are actively commenting on and researching various related topics. To provide insights and analysis, "MSU Today with Russ White" has launched a 2024 Election Spotlight Series. In the coming weeks, guests from diverse disciplines will join the podcast for discussions. These experts will also be available to speak with media.

"MSU Today with Russ White," the official podcast of MSU since 2006, is broadcast from MSU’s WKAR studios on WJR, WJIM, and WKAR.

“Given all the research and news our faculty are engaged with, it will be great to give them a platform to share their voice,” White said. “As the host, I am beyond excited to hear different perspectives and learn new insights from our guests in this series. Especially during what seem like such polarized times, I am hoping our listeners can learn more about issues they have been less exposed to and perspectives they might disagree with.”

The first episode features Dante Chinni, a data and political journalist and director of the American Communities Project (ACP) in the College of Communication Arts and Sciences. Chinni discussed ACP's work in categorizing America's counties into 15 groups based on demographics. This project allows students in MSU’s School of Journalism to report on key Michigan counties alongside the Detroit Free Press.

Chinni is conducting his second of three surveys through ACP. He shared findings indicating that Americans agree on several major issues like the economy and abortion despite divisions on other cultural matters. He also discussed potential ways to unite Americans and highlighted key observations for Michigan during this election period.

Future episodes will cover topics such as voter group sentiment, early voting resources, political communication strategies, managing relationships during November elections, civil discourse, and free speech.

Listeners can stay updated with new episodes of the 2024 Election Spotlight Series at the MSU Today with Russ White website.

Michigan's status as a key swing state in both presidential and congressional races makes these discussions particularly relevant. A full listing of MSU politics experts is available on MSUToday for those seeking further information or expert commentary.