Grand Valley experts can comment on national conventions

The 2008 Democratic National Convention starts August 25, in Denver and the 2008 Republican National Conventional begins September 1, in Minneapolis-Saint Paul.

The following Grand Valley State University political experts are available to comment about the conventions. Plus, Grand Valley has just launched a Web site to connect journalists with the university’s faculty experts able to speak on a variety of topics during the election season. The Web site, www.gvsu.edu/electioncenter , features story tips and topical expert lists for news media.

Erika King, (616) 331-2320 or (H): (616) 245-1470, professor of political science
King is an expert on campaigns and elections, public opinion and media and politics. She has been interviewed by television and major newspaper reporters including the New York Times .

Roger Moiles, (616) 331-3283 or (H): (616) 994-9985, instructor of political science
Moiles is an expert on elections, public policy, international relations and Congress.

Whitt Kilburn, (616) 331-8831, assistant professor of political science
Kilburn is an expert on political psychology and public opinion.

Kevin den Dulk, (616) 331-2991 or (H): (616) 459-5274, associate professor of political science
Den Dulk is an expert on religion and politics. His research has received national attention, including a national survey addressing religious beliefs, affiliation and behavior, which was carried live on C-Span. The survey addressed both the opportunities and obstacles the presidential candidates face with religious voters.

Gleaves Whitney, (616) 331-2770, director of the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies
Whitney is a presidential historian and author who served under former Michigan Gov. John Engler for 11 years as chief historian and speech writer. Whitney served as a commentator for major television networks when his son served in Iraq and during Ronald Reagan’s death and funeral.

Fred Antczak, (616) 331-2495, dean of Grand Valley’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Antczak is an expert on political rhetoric. He has been a regular consultant for Reuters, Washington Post, Boston Herald, Hartford Courtant, Atlanta Constitution and Cox Newspapers. He has also appeared on CNN, FOX and NPR’s “All Things Considered.”