In an era where political polarization seems to dominate every conversation, BridgeUSA is proving that bipartisan dialogue is not only possible, but essential for the future of democracy. This fall, over 20 BridgeUSA chapters hosted Presidential and Vice Presidential debate watch parties to share perspectives on the 2024 election and help each other learn more about pressing issues dictating votes across the country.
The watch parties featured discussions both before and after the debate, providing a space for students to express their views, ask questions, and challenge each other’s ideas in a respectful and productive manner.
“We don’t subscribe to the ‘left-right, red-blue, Republican-Democrat’ thing as much as other generations do,” said Carsen, the president of BridgeUSA at Point Park University. “I think we just want solutions to the problems we see being presented. We are going to bear the brunt of polarization in the years to come unless we do something about it now.”
About 30 students gathered at BridgePPU’s watch party for the debate between Gov. Tim Walz and Sen. J.D. Vance on Oct 1, and they stayed for the discussion after. They, like many Americans, were surprised and delighted to see the civility between both candidates on stage that night.
“I think [the debate] went a lot better than the presidential debate a few weeks ago,” said Kristin, a student from Boston University. She had attended one of the several other watch parties across BridgeUSA chapters on Oct 1, this one held by BridgeUSA at Boston University. “I feel like the candidates are a lot more respectful of each other.”
BridgeUSA at Boston University’s Vice Presidential watch party also brought out dozens of students, and was featured on NBC, CBS and ABC news.
“It’s interesting to see how even though we are different years, and different people, different backgrounds, we can all come together and learn more about politics,” said Ricky, another student attendee from Boston University.
The vice presidential debate watch parties hosted by our chapters reflect our core belief that bipartisanship is the key to breaking down barriers between opposing ideologies. In a setting where students from across the political spectrum come together, these events are more than just an opportunity to watch the debates; they’re a forum for dialogue, where attendees can engage in meaningful conversations about the issues that matter most to them.
By creating spaces for bipartisan dialogue, these events are not only helping students develop a deeper understanding of the political landscape, but also a better understanding of their own beliefs and each other, while inspiring a new generation of leaders who are committed to making democracy work for everyone.
