Forum Puts Science on the Caucus Campaign Agenda

DES MOINES, IA (April 24, 2019) — How presidential candidates campaigning for the Iowa Caucuses discuss science — or whether they bring up the topic at all — is the subject of an upcoming gathering of experts and journalists. "Science on the Stump: Putting Evidence and Science Policy on the Caucus Campaign Itinerary" will explore media-coverage of crucial science topics in the Iowa Caucuses and beyond. Panelists and audience members will help identify which science-based issues should be on the political agenda and how to prompt candidates to take positions on them. The forum is scheduled for Friday, May 3 at 3:30PM. March for Science Iowa and the Drake University School of Journalism and Mass Communication are sponsoring the event, to be held in Sussman Theater at Drake's Olmsted Center, 2875 University Ave, Des Moines. It's supported with a grant from Science Debate, a nonpartisan-organization that promotes political discourse on science issues. It is free and open to the public. A panel of scientists, educators, and activists will first consider what science-related issues are important to Iowans. During a second forum, political journalists will discuss which campaigns are highlighting science issues and how voters can challenge candidates to take stands on such subjects. The event will wrap up with a reception of light hors d'oeuvres. March for Science Iowa is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that promotes evidence-based policy and research in the public interest. It held events in 2017 and 2018. "Science on the Stump" is part of a national March for Science Day of Action on May 4. For more information and to RSVP, go to marchforscienceiowa.org, the March for Science Iowa Facebook page, or email hello@marchforscienceiowa.org.