As the Democratic National Convention kicks off in Chicago, the nation’s attention is once again turning to the grand stage where party platforms are set and the future direction of the country is debated. For some, it might seem like a spectacle of national politics — a parade of speeches, a cacophony of opinions and a sea of campaign promises. But for those of us at State Affairs, and for many of you — our subscribers — the DNC is much more than a national event; it’s a crucial arena for state government, and our presence there is vital.

While the DNC is often viewed through the lens of presidential politics, its impact resonates deeply within state governments. The policies debated and adopted at the convention often set the tone for legislative agendas at the state level. From health care and education to climate policy and economic development, the ideas that gain traction at the DNC can quickly make their way into statehouses across the nation. 

For State Affairs, attending the DNC is about understanding the undercurrents that will shape state policies in the years to come. By being on the ground, engaging with key figures from each of our states, and reporting on the nuances of these discussions, we ensure that our readers — whether they are legislators, lobbyists or engaged citizens — are equipped with the knowledge they need to anticipate and influence state-level outcomes.

The Democratic National Convention is also a reflection of the concerns and priorities of the states themselves. The voices of state delegates, many of whom are deeply involved in their local governments, bring a unique perspective to the national conversation. They highlight issues that are critical to the people in their communities — issues like infrastructure, state education funding and local economic challenges. Next week in Chicago, delegates from every state will finalize the Democratic party’s platform and underscore what the party stands for, just as Republicans did at their national convention a few weeks ago.

Our role at State Affairs is to amplify those voices. By attending the DNC, we ensure that the concerns of state governments are not lost in the broader national discourse. We listen to the delegates, interview state leaders, and bring back stories that matter to our readers, providing them with a deeper understanding of how national decisions will ripple through state policies.

The DNC also offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between state and national politics. Often, the policies crafted at the federal level need to be implemented by state governments. Understanding the interplay between these two levels of government is crucial for anyone involved in state politics. Our presence at the DNC allows us to track how national policies are being shaped, who is influencing these decisions, and what this means for state governments down the line.

Moreover, the convention is a hub of networking and relationship-building. For State Affairs, it’s an opportunity to connect with policymakers, influencers, and thought leaders who play pivotal roles in shaping state legislation. These connections enrich our coverage and provide our readers with insider perspectives they can’t get anywhere else.

At State Affairs, we pride ourselves on being more than just a news outlet. We are the nonpartisan source of truth for all activities within state government, and our coverage of the DNC is an extension of that commitment. By attending the DNC, we ensure that our readers have access to comprehensive, informed and balanced reporting on the issues that will affect them directly. We attend the DNC not to advocate for any party or platform but to provide our audience with the information they need to navigate the complex world of state politics.

State Affairs’ presence in Chicago underscores our commitment to delivering the most relevant, timely and impactful coverage to our readers. By being there, we ensure that the voices and concerns of state governments are heard, understood and acted upon. In the ever-evolving landscape of American politics, this is not just important — it’s essential.

Follow along this week: Jeremy Alford on X; WisPolitics Convention Corridor; WisPolitics on X; Brian Howey on X; Jeff Mayers on X; State Affairs US