Student-made Documentary Examines the 2016 Presidential Election

Student-made documentary examines the 2016 presidential election

MAY 4, 2017 — A student-produced documentary entitled “National Agenda 2016: Road to the Presidency” provides insight into the divisive and contentious 2016 presidential election between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. It briefly walks viewers from the events leading up to the election, to election night itself, and on to the aftermath. It examines the impact of the election, not only on the nation as a whole but also on students at the University of Delaware.

National Agenda Director Lindsay Hoffman said, “Students witnessed a historic election in 2016, and this documentary demonstrates what Millennials were feeling before and after the election. It’s a fascinating first-person perspective!” Debates, campaign events, protests, and news programs illuminate how the febrile political environment placed the nation at odds with itself. In addition to interviews with University of Delaware faculty, the documentary features excerpts from UD’s National Agenda 2016 “Road to the Presidency” speaker series, including former Maryland Governor Bob Ehrlich and UD alumnus and Obama campaign strategist David Plouffe. These experts provide commentary on a variety subjects from the divided state of US politics to the critical role played by late night talk show comedians and satirists. UD students also share their feelings on the election, the two candidates, and how the election has changed the country.

The thought-provoking student documentary recalls this challenging and divisive time in American history and yet leaves the viewer with a sense of hope from UD Vice Provost for Diversity Carol Henderson who says that the election has given Americans the opportunity “to learn how to build a better world where we can have different opinions without hurting someone else.” UD’s Center for Political Communication produces the National Agenda fall speaker series, which is made possible by generous support from the William P. Frank Foundation of Delaware, the University of Delaware’s Office of the Provost, and the College of Arts and Sciences.

The seventh annual “National Agenda” Speaker Series begins September 7, 2017. This year’s theme is “As We Stand, Divided.” The full schedule will be announced soon. To view previous National Agenda presentations, please visit the University of Delaware National Agenda YouTube Channel.