November’s election will be a watershed moment: likely to be one of the dirtiest and most expensive campaigns ever waged. The final results could change the face of one or both of the major parties and affect the course of our social and political history forever. The obvious question is whether the COVID-19 pandemic has made the election solely a referendum on presidential leadership. But our sessions will address many other issues: the popular vote vs. the electoral college; the possible impact of third parties as spoilers; the role of the media (both national press and social); issues other than the virus; the critical down-ballot races in the Senate, House and Governorships; Pacs and Super Pacs; advertising and fake news…just for a start.

There’s more: How do you campaign if there are severe restrictions on traditional techniques? Can this election be stolen? Might it be postponed? Will the Russians and others interfere? How many millions of votes will be cast by mail? What effect would this have on turnout? If there is a new President will there be a peaceful transfer of power? What role might the Courts play as events unfold?

This promises to be an election like no other—an unprecedented test of the American political system. We’ll see things we never expected. You can have a front row seat to history and it won’t be boring. The class ends after Election Day, but when will we know who will be inaugurated?