Past Events

SPRING 2012

2/8/12
From the Tea Party to Occupy: How Populist Movements Shape American Politics
Tea Partiers and Occupiers are at opposite ends of the political spectrum, yet they both embrace the politics "of the people". What effect will these populist movements have on the upcoming state, congressional and presidential races? Featuring Jon Fleischman, founder and publisher, FlashReport.org; Larry Eason, President and founder, DotOrgPower; Alex Yebri, USC College Republicans; Fritz Pielstick, USC College Democrats

2/1/12
Road to the White House: Competing Demographic Threats and Electoral Strategy: Failed Policy for Our Growing Elderly, Struggling Young Adults, and Immigrants
Professor Dowell Myers, a demographer and policy planner, relies on the latest census information and new forecasts to propose a more productive narrative for America. He critiques old misperceptions, spotlights uncontested truths, and finds grounds for new hope. A shared destiny with great promise links our generations and spans the demographic groups. The question remains whether this vision of fruitful connectedness can survive in a competitive political contest.

1/30/12 
Florida Primary Watch
Featuring: Margita Thompson, Press Secretary, Bush for President 2000
Co-sponsored by the USC College Republicans

1/25/12 
State of the Union
President Obama delivers his State of the Union address in the midst of economic uncertainty and on the eve of a historic presidential election. What message will he try to send to undecided voters during his address? After a tumultuous 2011, how will President Obama work with Congress? Can the President inspire hope for the future without setting unrealistic expectations during an uneven economic recovery? Join a panel of students and politics experts for a live screening of President Obama's State of the Union address and a discussion of his salient themes and priorities for 2012. 

1/18/12
Battle for Congress
The battle for Congress quietly rages - with enormous implications for the next president's agenda and the nation. After a bruising year of fiscal fights between parties, how will each present their economic agendas in their pursuit of establishing a narrow majority? Here in California, how will recent redistricting affect the political slant of the state? A panel of students and political experts discuss the coming battle for the 113th Congress
 
1/18/11
Road to the White House 2012: State of the Campaign
Will South Carolina decide the Republican presidential nomination? What can we expect from the sitting president's campaign in response? How have the events of the campaign so far changed the road that lies ahead? A panel of students and political experts examine the political landscape and shed light on the campaign in the new year. Featuring Rob Stutzman, Former Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications for Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Hector De La Torre, former California State Assemblyman for the 50th District, Alex Davidson, Director of External Relations for the USC College Republicans, and Bobby Almeida, member of the USC College Democrats. 
 
1/10/12
Election 2012: The New Hampshire Primary 
Featuring Bill Simon, 2002 Republican Nominee for Governor of California and Alex Davidson, Director of External Relations, College Republicans. Moderated by Dan Schnur, Director, Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics. (To view the flyer, please click here.)
 
FALL 2011

12/6/11
USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll Briefing Event
Los Angeles elected officials and their staffs joined the Unruh Institute of Politics Director Dan Schnur for a private briefing and review of 2011 USC Dornsife/LA Times poll results. The USC Dana and David Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences/Los Angeles Times Poll project is a series of statewide public opinion polls in California, designed to survey voter attitudes on a wide range of political, policy, social and cultural issues. Conducted at regular intervals throughout the year, the USC  Dornsife/Los Angeles Times Poll is one of the largest polls of registered voters in the state and has been widely cited, helping to inform the public and to encourage discourse on key political and policy issues. For images of the event, please click here.  
 
12/6/11
"Talking About Los Angeles" Conversation Series
Talking About Los Angeles is a series of six conversations designed to explore the most pressing issues facing LA. Through these dialogues candidates will be given the opportunity to express their ideas and discuss their vision for Los Angeles in 2013 and beyond. More than soundbites or clever debate tactics, this series is designed to be an honest exploration of the issues and will help shape the future of Los Angeles. Participating schools include: USC, UCLA, LMU, CSUN, and Harbor College.
 
11/30/11
Year in Politics
A panel discussion of this year's BIGGEST political events and a look into what might happen in the political world in 2012. Features Michael Wissot, Political Analyst, KABC Talk Radio; Christian Patterson, Political Student Assembly; Rihao Gao, Political Student Assembly. Moderated by: Dan Schnur, Director, Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics; Elyse Perlmutter-Gumbiner, Executive Producer, Annenberg TV News. Co-sponsored by USC's Political Student Assembly. (For more information click here.)

11/16/11
Road to the White House 2012: Pick a President, Not a Party
Combining modern technology with the age-old American value of free voice and the power of choice, Americans Elect offers voters the opportunity online to nominate a presidental ticket on the ballot to qualify in all 50 states. Featuring: Kahlil Byrd, Chief Executive Officer, Americans Elect; Darry Sragow, Professor, USC Department of Political Science; Christian Grose, Professor, USC Department of Political Science; and Asher Feldman, Editor in Chief, Daily Trojan. (For more information, click here.)  (To watch a taping of the event, click here.)

11/9/11
Road to the White House 2012
The USC Annenberg School’s Center on Communication Leadership and Policy (CCLP), in partnership with USC’s Unruh Institute and Bedrosian Center, presents a conversation on the 2012 presidential election, featuring CCLP faculty fellow Tom Hollihan, author of Uncivil Wars: Political Campaigns in a Media Age. Hollihan, communication professor Gordon Stables and members of the Trojan Debate Squad talk about the media’s role in influencing public perception of issues in the 2012 presidential election. (To watch a taping of the event, click here.)
 
11/2/11
Road to the White House 2012: The Age of Obama: Race and Politics in America
As America’s first minority president faces the prospect of reelection, how will he and his Republican challengers address race in 2012? How will the candidates tackle the topic of immigration reform and appeal to Latino voters? A panel of political experts break down the politics of race in Election 2012.  (To watch a taping of the event, click here.)
 
10/26/11
Road to the White House 2012: What do Voters Want in Health Reform?
The 2010 health reform legislation has become a hot button in the early debates for the 2012 Presidential election. But voters remain conflicted about what they want in their health system and what they demand from their politicians. This session will explore changes in public preferences in contrast with the provisions of existing law. The critical issue is whether the candidates will be able to reconcile the public’s desire for reform with political realities. Featuring Director of Graduate Program in Health Mike Nichol and Master of Health Administration candidates (2012) Susan Lam and Amit Pabla to discuss what voters want in healthcare reform. Moderated by Bedrosian Center Director Dan Mazmanian.  (To watch a taping of the event, click here.)
 
10/20/11
The Unruh Institute's Political Internship Information Session: "The Value of Getting Involved" Panel Discussion
Students can learn more about Spring and Summer Internships in Los Angeles, Sacramento and Washington D.C.! Hear from:Greg Label, Director of the GWU Semester in Washington Program; Wayne Glass, Professor of the Practice of International Relations and Problems Without Passports Washington D.C. Summer Program; Darren McDivitt, Director of the Political Courage Test at Project Vote Smart; Torey Van Oot, Political Reporter for the Sacramento Bee and former intern for Roll Call and Congress Now; Debbie Oh, USC Student and former Intern for the White House Office of Presidential Correspondence; and Andrew Arnold, former Intern for Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. The panel is moderated by Dr. Art Auerbach, Professor, Department of Political Science at USC.

10/20/11
Road to the White House 2012: Richard Reeves on Presidential Leadership
A USC Annenberg journalism professor, Reeves has authored biographies of Ronald Reagan, Richard Nixon, and John Kennedy, among others. His latest book is Daring Young Men: The Heroism and Triumph of The Berlin Airlift-June 1948-May 1949. Professor Reeves will discuss the 2012 presidential election in comparison with other campaigns during times of economic crisis, including 1936, 1980 and 1992. Also, as author of the CCLP white paper Bridging the Political Divide in the 2008 Presidential Election, he will discuss prospects for bipartisan cooperation in 2012. (To watch a taping of the event, click here.)
 
10/12/11
Road to the White House 2012: The Politics of Education: Fixing Our Public Schools
As we look to the presidential election, what impact will the politics of education have on the prospective presidential candidates? Issues such as school funding, charter schools, and teacher recruitment and promotion point to stark differences in opinions amongst teachers unions, school administrators, and other stakeholders. How will Obama’s Race to the Top program affect the voters’ pick for president? (To watch a taping of the event, click here.)

10/5/11
Is California's Climate Change Policy the Right Path Forward?
Throughout US history the paths to reform have often been paved with obstacles. California is seen as the leader in the climate change strategies. But is California’s climate change policy the right path forward? Join a panel of experts, moderated by Dan Mazmanian, to explore environmental issues facing voters. (To watch a taping of the event, click here.)
 
10/3/11
United States Supreme Court: A Preview
The USC Gould School of Law and the USC Student Chapters of The American Constitution Society and The Federalist Society present a panel on the 2011 U.S. Supreme Court Term. Panelists discuss and debate upcoming cases, the dynamics of the Court and Court's future. Moderated by Elizabeth Garrett, USC Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Frances R. and John J. Duggan Professor of Law, Political Science and Public Policy, the panel features: Rebecca Brown, Newton Professor of Constitutional Law, USC Gould School of Law; Jeffery Fisher, Co-Director, Supreme Court Litigation Clinic, Stanford Law School; and Michael McConnell, Richard and Frances Mallery Professor of Law, Stanford Law School and Former Judge, U.S. 10th Circuit Court of Appeals.
 
9/28/11
Road to the White House 2012: Texas vs. California: Economic Myths and Reality
The USC Annenberg School’s Center on Communication Leadership and Policy (CCLP) presents a discussion on the 2012 elections, featuring CCLP Senior Fellow Narda Zacchino, who is currently working on a book about California that focuses on the oft-made comparisons between California and Texas. Joining her will be Annenberg Professor and Truthdig Editor Robert Scheer. (To watch a taping of the event, click here. To read a Daily Trojan article covering the event, click here.)
 
9/14/11
Road to the White House 2012: Richard K. Green and the Impact of the Housing Market on Elections
California led the nation in foreclosures this July, with over 56,000 homes going into foreclosure. While this number is down 16% from last year, it remains high. In fact, filings in the state of California represented over 26% of new filings nationwide. Join Richard K. Green, Director of the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate, for an in-depth look at the housing market and the fiscal issues that may affect the elections both statewide and nationwide. (To watch a taping of the event, click here.)
 
9/14/11
A Constitution for the 21st Century
September 2011 marks the 224-year anniversary of the signing of the American Constitution, which is the oldest written constitution in the world still in effect today. While other countries with much younger constitutions have repeatedly amended or entirely rewritten their constitutions, the U.S. Constitution is noteworthy for its relatively small number of amendments – only 27 in 224 years.In recognition of this year's Constitution Day, USC students will host a round-table discussion on a U.S. Constitution for the 21st century.(For more information, click here.)
 
9/7/11
GOP Candidates Debate
Join the Unruh Institute of Politics and Annenberg for a live viewing of the Republican Presidential Candidates Debate. Post-debate discussion will follow. (For more information, please click here)
 
9/7/11
America's Search for a New Ethos
The USC Annenberg School’s Center on Communication Leadership and Policy (CCLP) presents a roundtable discussion on the 2012 elections featuring CCLP senior fellow Morley Winograd and Mike Hais, co-authors of the forthcoming Millennial Momentum: How a New Generation Is Remaking America.
 
8/31/11
Road to the White House 2012: Obama and the Republicans
Voters are unhappy about the economy and Barack Obama is taking the brunt of it. But Americans don't have much faith in the Republicans to make things better either. Who can emerge from the GOP primary to take on Obama? Which party can convince the voters that they can get the economy moving again? A panel of political experts break down the promises, policies, and pitfalls we can expect from the presidential hopefuls in the months ahead. (For more information, click here.)
 
7/22/11-7/24/11
California Common Cause
The application deadline for California Common Cause's 2nd Annual Student Activist Training is just two weeks away! Applications are due June 30th and will take place on UC Berkeley's Campus from July 22-24th. Only 30 students this year will be accepted, so get your applications in soon! Apply here.
 
7/6/11-7/7/11
Campus Progressive National Conference
Previous speakers have included Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, Nancy Pelosi, John Lewis, Linda Sanchez, Susan Rice, Van Jones, Samantha Power, Seymour Hersh, Majora Carter, John Oliver, Ryan Gosling, and Fat Joe. For more information, click here.
4/26/11
The First 100 Days of Jerry Brown
An early progress report on the Brown Administration. (For more information, click here.)
4/13/11
Life After Prop 8: Who Can Marry in America?
The Obama Administration recently announced that they will no longer defend the constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), the legal prohibition of same-sex marriage signed into law by President Clinton in 1996. But until the courts render a definitive verdict over DOMA’s legality, the House of Representatives promises to defend its constitutionality. In California and the country, the battle over Prop. 8 has many waiting for the Supreme Court to settle the issue by defining “marriage” in America. Professional and student experts meet to discuss DOMA, Prop 8, and the political implications of defining marriage. (For more information, click here.) To watch C-SPAN's recording of this program, please click here.
4/6/11
The Elephant in the Room: Who Will Take On Obama in 2012?
For the first time in many years, the GOP has no obvious next-in-line candidate to face Barack Obama as the Republican nominee for President in 2012. Many prominent Republicans have begun to move closer to throwing their hats into the ring. But in a primary campaign where many potential candidates have flirted with running, who can both rally the party base and win the support of independent voters to take on this well-funded incumbent? Student and professional political strategists assess the field of candidates and their chances against Barack Obama and his experienced campaign team. (For more information, click here.)
3/30/11
Tweeting, Texting and Tagging: New Media and The Future of Campaign Politics?
In 21st century political campaigns, are texts and tweets more important than knocking on doors? Is friending people on Facebook the new phonebanking? New media has certainly redefined the political landscape, but can you really tweet your way into office? Come listen to student and professional new media experts as they navigate the new battleground of online campaigning. (For more information, click here.)
3/9/11
Fueling Our Future: Is America Ripe for a Green Economy?
Will green technology be a jobs-creator for our economic future or a fashionable and expensive boondoggle? Will spending on research and development of alternative energies help save us from dependence on oil and gas, or a waste of taxpayer money? Student and professional experts weigh in on America’s paths toward environmental sustainability, energy independence, and economic growth. (For more information, click here.)
3/2/11
California’s Budget Crisis: Can Brown Turn Red to Black?
Everyone agrees, California is broke. But, how do we balance our budget, through cutting spending or increasing taxes? Or both? Can Governor Brown convince the Legislature to pass his budget proposal, and then get California voters to support it in a special election? Student and professional experts gather to weigh the financial woes of the Golden State against the political obstacles to balancing the budget of a state in crisis. (For more information, click here.)
 
 
02/23/11
The Kid's Aren't Alright: Fixing California Schools
California’s schools rank 48th out of the 50 states in most national rankings. Is the answer more money or more reforms? Or both? Everyone agrees that a great teacher can be a huge asset for their students’ futures. But what’s the best way to promote excellence in the classroom...for teachers and students alike? (For more information, click here.)
 
2/16/11
Stewart and Colbert: Comedians or News Anchors? Or Both?
Is Comedy Central the CNN of the 21st century...or the Saturday Night Live? Is the Colbert/Stewart phenomenon political news or pure comedy? Is Jon Stewart really America’s modern day Walter Cronkite? Is Stephen Colbert solely a satirist? What happens when comedy begins to shape policy? And what does it mean for our political discourse when these lines begin to blur? A panel of student and professional experts breakdown the politics of comedy in the age of Indecision 2012. (For more information, click here.)
2/9/11
MoveOn.org and the Tea Party: The New Forces in American Politics
What do movements such as MoveOn.org and the Tea Party teach us about our democracy? Do Populist movements vent the frustrations of the engaged, or can they also give voice to the vitriol of the fringe? Historically, Populism has long been part of our politics, but how do such movements help us govern? A panel of student and professional experts explore MoveOn.org and the Tea Party, and unveil how Populists help write the story of American politics.(For more information, click here.)
02/01/11
Immigration: Both Sides of the Fence
Whatever happened to the immigration debate? Both Presidents Bush and Obama promised to fix a borken system, but little progress has been made and few observers are optimistic that a breakthrough will come any time soon. Can the politics of immigration lead to real reform? Join poltical experts of both parties and student leaders to discuss one of our nation's most important and volatile issues. (For more information, click here.)
01/26/11
Obama and the Republicans: Potential for Compromise?
What are the lessons to be learned from last November’s midterm elections? Did the voters reject President Obama and his policies, or are Americans simply unhappy about the state of the economy? Can the President and Congress work together on this new political landscape? (For more information, click here.)
01/25/2011
President Obama's State of the Union 2011
The speech will be preceded by a panel discussion featuring Geoff Cowan, University Professor, USC; Annenberg Family Chair in Communication Leadership; Dan Schnur, Chairman, California Fair Political Practices Commission; Director, Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics; and a representative of the Daily Trojan. (For more information, click here.)
FALL 2010
11/16/10
Students Talk Back - The USC Internship Experience: Your Career’s First Step
Unemployment rates among recent college graduates are rising. Now, more than ever, a blank resume leads to a blank paycheck. So how can an internship help you take the first step in your career and put some practical application behind that Political Science degree? Past and present interns shared their stories. Through their experiences, and the Unruh Institute’s internship program, learn how you can get the competitive edge, contacts, and resume building skills you’ll need to land that first elusive job.  (For more information, click here.)
 
11/09/10
Students Talk Back - Midterm 2010: USC/LA Times Poll Finds Truth In Politics
What’s the meaning of this election? What’s the number one reason people voted? USC students worked diligently with the Los Angeles Times to uncover who mattered and what mattered in the 2010 elections in California. At this special lunch event, USC students share their personal experiences and insights about working on this election season poll.  (For more information, click here.)
11/02/10
Midterm 2010: Election Night
Interactive games, prizes, with national and local news coverage and real time analysis of the election returns and panel dicussion.  Panel also included student representatives on both sides of the aisle.  (For more information, click here.)
10/27/10
Buy This Candidate: The Ethics of Political Marketing
With so much at stake each election cycle, candidates, political parties, and special interest groups spend huge sums on political marketing activities. Every election brings fresh allegations of underhanded marketing tactics that deceive or manipulate voters and undermine the democratic process. Our panel of experts will attempt to cut through the spin and counter-spin to answer the question: When are political marketing tactics unethical and what can we do about it? (For more information, click here.)
10/26/10
Students Talk Back  - Governor’s Race: The Home Stretch
With only a week to go until the big day, USC student leaders and political practitioners critique the campaigns and predict whose tactics will ultimately win come Election Day. (For more information, click here.)
 
10/19/10
Students Talk Back  - Boxer vs. Fiorina: Who Will California Send to Washington?
When Californians choose our next Senator, will experience be paramount, or do voters want fresh blood in Washington? As we near Election Day, both Barbara Boxer and Carly Fiorina are fighting for each remaining voter. Political practitioners and USC student leaders come together to discuss each campaign’s strengths and weaknesses, and to offer their predictions for who California will send to Washington. (For more information, click here.)
 
10/12/10
Debate Watch 2010: Brown/Whitman (Part II)
Students and faculty viewed the televised faceoff between Meg Whitman and Jerry Brown with a pre-debate discussion.  (For more information, click here.)
 
10/12/10
Students Talk Back  - Every Child Left Behind? Education Races to the Top of the Agenda
Schools are failing young people across America. Everyone agrees investing in the future is a must, but how do we save our students from drowning within the system? Join experienced education and political professionals and USC student leaders to discuss how to build public support for the changes we need to save our schools. (For more information, click here.)
 
10/05/10
Students Talk Back - Puff, Puff… Should We Pass Prop 19?
Is weed the green that’s going to solve California’s fiscal crisis? What will this mean for sellers and users? Experts and USC students share what they know about the prospects and the pitfalls of the marijuana initiative.  (For more information, click here.)
 
09/28/10
Debate Watch 2010: Brown/Whitman (Part I)
A public screening of the first Brown Whitman debate with a pre-debate discussion.  (For more information, click here.)
 
09/28/10
Students Talk Back - Defining Marriage: Who Decides
Political pundits agree that the final battle over gay marriage will be held in the Supreme Court. Supporters of gay marriage maintain that they are fighting for civil rights and equality before the law, while opponents contend that the voters have spoken and democracy’s voice has been heard. As we await Prop. 8’s day in America’s highest court, many wonder if there is historical precedent for the court to supersede the electorate. USC student leaders and practitioners meet to break through the barriers of defining marriage. (For more information, click here.)
 
09/21/10
Students Talk Back – Prop. 23: The Battle Over Climate Change
Is California’s commitment to the environment curbing job creation or is reigning in global warming the only path to sustainable long-term growth? Does AB 32, signed by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2006, stifle business or is it a necessary step in the fight to slow global warming. (For more information, click here.)
 
09/16/10
Ross Douthat: Theology Has Consequences
Presented by: Knight Chair in Media and Religion
Diane Watson, the USC Annenberg Knight Chair in Media and Religion, and Ross Douthat, a columnist for the New York Times, discuss religion, politics, and the news media. Douthat’s recent column’s have covered same-sex marriage, the Glenn Beck phenomenon, Islam and American culture, the war in Afghanistan and clergy sexual abuse in the Roman Catholic Church. (For more information, click here.)
 
09/14/10
Students Talk Back – Brown vs. Whitman: Who’s Got the Winning Strategy?
Brown, the Democrat, presents himself as the voice of experience, a lifelong public servant who understands Sacramento and has the track record to break through its political stalemate. Whitman, the Republican, is the former CEO of eBay who argues that private sector experience is the key to whipping the Sacramento political machine back into shape. (For more information, click here.)
SPRING 2010
05/05/10
SCAG Regional Conference & General Assembly: Fixing California
This discussion will outline the public policy challenges facing the state as well as the regional and international policy necessities that Los Angeles faces as a result of our unique geographic, demographic, cultural and professional standings. “Fixing California” seeks to re-establish Los Angeles as the unofficial capitol of the Pacific Rim by addressing local and regional concerns through cooperative efforts with those individuals and organizations that represent the wide-ranging interests that populate the Southland. (For more information, click here.)
04/14/10
Election 2010 - Who pays?  Who decides?  A Guide for the Spring Ballot Initiatives
A discussion, moderated by Dan Schnur, about ballot initiatives that will appear on the June 2010 ballot. Proposition 14 creates "open primaries" and eliminates party-specific primaries. Proposition 15 approves the "California Fair Elections Act" which creates public financing for political campaigns. (For more information click, here.)
 
03/31/10
Students Talk Back – Bush, Obama, & War: A Guide to U.S. Involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan
U.S. troops are gradually pulling out of Iraq, with a full withdrawal targeted for the end of the year yet our military presence in Afghanistan is expanding. President Obama has promised to bring peace and stability to the Middle East, will that commitment help him with voters who recognize the danger still exists, or hurt him with those who want our troops to return home?  (For more information, click here.)
 
03/25/10
USC Political Science and International Relations Faculty Reception
Co-sponsor: USC Department of Political Science
The purpose of the event is to honor all Political Science and International Relations faculty. It will also provide an opportunity for faculty in two closely-related fields to get to know one another in a casual setting within an important location on the university’s campus.
Co-sponsor: USC Department of Political Science
The purpose of the event is to honor all Political Science and International Relations faculty. It will also provide an opportunity for faculty in two closely-related fields to get to know one another in a casual setting within an important location on the university’s campus. (For more information, click here.)
 
03/24/10
Students Talk Back - Health Care: What Happens Next?
On Sunday night, the House of Representatives passed historic and sweeping legislation that will dramatically reform the nation's health care system. Will Obama benefit politically from the bill's passage? How about Democrats up for re-election this fall? Can Republicans use the issue to win back seats in Congress, or will they look like they're standing in the way of progress?
03/10/10
Republicans v Democrats Debate - Resolved: President Obama’s policy has been ineffective at combating terrorism
Resolved: President Obama’s policies been ineffective at combating terrorism? The fourth annual debate will feature the USC College Republicans advocating the affirmative and the USC College Democrats the negative. (For more information, click here.)
 
03/10/10
Students Talk Back – The Battle for the US Senate: Can Barbara Boxer hold off the Republicans?
Three-term California Senator Barbara Boxer is facing a difficult reelection campaign this fall. Who will the Republicans pick to face Boxer, and how will their challenger position himself or herself against her? How will the incumbent defend her record?
 
03/03/10
Students Talk Back  – The Tea Party Movement: Populism, Politics, and Anger
The Tea Party Movement is now arguably the most powerful populist force in U.S. politics in two decades yet they have no elected leadership. Can one party or the other co-opt the Tea Party anger for their own parties as the 2010 midterm election season begins to heat up? Is this a third party movement? (For more information, click here.)
 
02/28/10 – 03/01/10
Sacramento Legislative Seminar 2010
Twenty-nine students travel to California’s Capitol to learn about the “behind the scenes” of politics from political, policy and government leaders with the opportunity to meet and interact with the executive and legislative leaders who shape the laws and policies of California.
02/24/10
Students Talk Back – Whatever Happened to Health Care Reform?  Can Obama & Republicans Find Common Ground?
Many on the left argue that getting Republican support for healthcare reform will be impossible while many on the right argue that an agreement on healthcare is impossible because Democrats refuse to compromise. Is a nationally televised summit the appropriate forum to address these critical concerns? Will the President’s health care summit lead to the passage of a reform bill that a majority of Americans support? Moderated by a representative of The Daily Trojan; and Dan Schnur, Director of the USC Unruh Institute of Politics.
 
02/19/10
Panelist for Pepperdine Policy Day
Unruh Institute Director Dan Schnur participated in an afternoon lunch and panel discussion with key elected and senior civic leaders and experts in California’s legislative process. Entitled “Policy Day: California’s Initiative Process Revisited,” this event promises to be an interesting and invigorating afternoon of discussion and friendship. Sponsored by the Pepperdine University School of Public Policy, with generous support from John, George, and Bonnie Thomas.
 
02/17/10
Students Talk Back – Prisons vs. Colleges: Where Should California Be Spending Our Tax Money?
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger recently made headlines by proposing a constitutional amendment that would mandate the state spend more money in a given year on higher education than prisons.  While most voters agree that California's higher education system requires more resources, people on both sides of the aisle question the wisdom of such an amendment.  While the answers remain unclear, one thing is for sure: Schwarzenegger has provoked a lively debate.  (For more information, click here.)
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger recently made headlines by proposing a constitutional amendment that would mandate the state spend more money in a given year on higher education than prisons.  While most voters agree that California's higher education system requires more resources, people on both sides of the aisle question the wisdom of such an amendment.  While the answers remain unclear, one thing is for sure: Schwarzenegger has provoked a lively debate.  (For more information, click here.)
 
02/10/10
Students Talk Back – Is There Life After Arnold?  California’s Next Governor’s Race
As Election Day draw closer, will Californians choose Jerry Brown, Steve Poizner, or Meg Whitman as the next governor? How they would govern California, and what sort of state will Schwarzenegger will leave to them? Featuring off-campus experts Pat Reddy, co-author of “California after Arnold” and Aaron McLear, Governor’ Schwarzenegger’s Press Secretary. Moderated by a representative of The Daily Trojan; and Dan Schnur, Director of the USC Unruh Institute of Politics. (For more information, click here.)
 
02/03/10
Students Talk Back – The Legalization of Marijuana
As the Obama administration has signaled it will not use federal authority to supersede states rights on the issue of medical marijuana, the legalization debate is gaining ground in California. With 14 states already approving the use of medical marijuana, it looks as though California may be the first to legalize the use of the drug without a prescription. With a near certain ballot initiative this November, the choice is now in the hands of voters. In a recent statewide poll, 56% of Californians approved the measure. But with widespread opposition from law enforcement and family values groups, the public could still be swayed.  (For more information, click here.)
 
01/27/10
President Obama’s State of the Union Address Viewing
USC Annenberg School for Communication and the USC Dana and David Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences present a public viewing of President Barack Obama’s State of the Union with a pre-debate discussion.  (For more information, click here.)
01/27/10
Students Talk Back – Homeland Security: Balancing Security and Civil Liberties
After the failed Christmas Day bombing attempt, Americans are once again questioning their safety in the air. As President Obama accepted responsibility for the incident, a number of structural changes to the way Americans travel quickly followed - leading privacy advocates to question if new provisions infringe upon civil liberties. Among these provisions are full body scanners, increased use of patdowns, and mandatory “extra security screenings” for individuals traveling from 14 specifically named countries, and the expansion of the “no fly list”. Some argue that the new measures violate travelers privacy. Others claim that flying is a choice, and as such, travelers are choosing not only to fly but also the additional screening that it necessitates. Even so, President Obama is being forced to confront an extremely difficult question - Are civil liberties more important than homeland security? And are the two mutually exclusive?Co-sponsors: Department of Political Science, The Daily Trojan, USC College Republicans, USC College Democrats, Political Student Assembly (For more information, click here.)
01/20/10
Students Talk Back – Obama One Year Later: What have we learned?
One year following President Obama's historic inauguration, many questions remain about his first term in office. While some argue that his administration had its successes - from the stimulus plan, to the commitment of 30,000+ troops to Afghanistan, to the likely passage of the first comprehensive health care bill in fifty years - others are disappointed with Obama's performance. Among the unfilled promises and broken campaign pledges are immigration reform, cap-and-trade, and the financial system regulatory overhaul. All of these issues feature a potential downside for President Obama as he comes under increased criticism for alienating his base of liberal supporters over the past 12 months, and for his receipt of the Nobel Peace Prize. While his inauguration a year ago seemed to herald a new era for American politics, many remain frustrated with the country’s economic situation and concerns over Obama's "big government" policies. With the 2010 midterm elections less than a year away, it now begs the question: After one historic year, what will the next 3 look like?  (For more information, click here.)
FALL 2009
11/12/09
USC Critical Issues Forum, Going For Broke: Goverance & The Fiscal Crisis
School of Policy, Planning, and Development Dean Jack Knott and VP of Government and Community Relations Thomas Sayles hosted the inaugural USC Critical Issues Forum featuring a panel of distinguished guests.
 
11/11/09
Students Talk Back - Election 2010: The Governor’s Race
Featuring Dan Loeterman, Daily Trojan; Micah Scheindlin, student representative from the USC College Democrats; Jordan Goh, student representative from the USC College Republicans.  Moderated by Alex Comisar, Editor-in-Chief, USC Daily Trojan; and Dan Schnur, Director of the USC Unruh Institute of Politics. (For more information click here)
 
11/05/09
The New Civil Rights State: The Changing Nature of Civil Rights Litigation and Implementation
Boston College's R. Shep Melnick spoke about trends in civil rights litigation and implementation.  R. Shep Melnick is the Tip O'Neill Chair of Politics at Boston College. He has written extensively on the intersections of law, politics and public policy — particularly in the areas of the interpretation of environmental statutes, welfare rights and special education. Melnick's book Between the Lines remains the standard study of political construction of statutory rights, which Martin Shapiro described as "The best work so far in integrating the study of courts into the general study of the politics of the American policy making process."  During his visit to USC, Melnick discussed a new project on the changing nature of civil rights litigation and implementation. He was joined at this event by USC Political Science Professor Jeb Barnes and USC Gould School of Law Professor Kareem Crayton, who facilitated discussion of Melnick's findings and arguments about the evolving nature of the "civil rights state" in the United States. (For more information click here)
11/05/09
Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Passage of the Unruh Civil Rights Act
Featuring Los Angeles City Councilman Bernard Parks; Congressman Mervyn Dymally; Marvin L. Holen, who worked with Jesse M. Unruh on the Unruh Civil Rights Act; Ange-Marie Hancock, Associate Professor of Political Science at USC and author of The Politics of Disgust and the Public Identity of the "Welfare Queen"; Ruthee Goldkorn, Disability Rights Activist; R. Shep Melnick, Thomas P. O'Neill, Jr. Professor of American Politics at Boston College; Michelle Lee, USC student majoring in Political Science and Sociology, minoring in Human Rights; and Araceli Ruano, President of the LA County Arts Commission and trustee of the Mexican American Bar Foundation.(For more information, click here)
Click here to see the video
 
10/23/09
Crime, Punishment & Rehabilitation:  The Politics & Policy of California's Prisons.
Featuring L.A. District Attorney Steve Cooley; Vice President of Prison Fellowship Ministries, Pat Nolan; USC Law Professor, Jody Armour; and student representatives.(For more information, click here)
Click here to see the video:  http://capture.usc.edu/college/Viewer/?peid=477dbceb45d84124ba55f5c921f1cd1b
 
 
10/21/09
Students Talk Back -  California's Prison Crisis
Featuring Pat Nolan, Vice President, Prison Fellowship Ministries; Nina Salarno-Ashford, National Administrator, Corrections USA; Kirsten Rice, USC CALPIRG representative; and a student representative from the USC College Republicans.  Moderated by Dan Loeterman, Managing Editor, The Daily Trojan; and Dan Schnur, Director of the USC Unruh Institute of Politics.
 
10/20/09
The Role of the First Lady 
Featuring Dan Schnur,  Director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics; Alison Renteln, USC Political Science Professor; and moderated by Parker Hevron, POIR Ph.D. candidate.  Co-sponsored by the Academic Culture Assembly.
 
10/6/09
Balancing Concerns:  Do Human Rights Matter in a Global Recession? 
Featuring Dick Castner,  Western Regional Director, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; David Kang, USC International  Relations Professor, Director of the USC Korean Studies Institute; Alison Renteln, USC Political Science Professor, Expert on cultural rights; Adam Weissman, USC, Class of 2010; and Christian Whiton, Former Deputy Special Envoy for Human Rights in North Korea.(For more information, click here)
Click here to see the video:  http://capture.usc.edu/college/Viewer/?peid=0961450b1e6a4d849fa16689170285e3
 
 
9/30/09
Students Talk Back -  Obama and Climate Change: Energy, the Environment, and Congress' Next Challenge. 
Featuring Sarah Leonard, Vice President, Glover Park Group and Senior Adviser for Gore for President 2000; Alex Pugh, Senior Public Policy Manager, Energy, Environment and Water Committee, Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce; Bobby Almeida, President, USC College Democrats; and Nick Bradvica, Student Representative, USC College Republicans.  Moderated by Alex Comisar, Editor-in-Chief, USC Daily Trojan; and Dan Schnur, Director of the USC Unruh Institute of Politics. (For more information click here)