As the year 2024 draws to a close, the US Presidential Election—the most globally significant political race—has become a focal point of attention worldwide. To enhance students’ understanding of the electoral process, the influencing factors, and the broader implications of the election outcomes for US foreign policy and global political dynamics, the FIR&C hosted this special topic discussion “The US Presidential Election 2024 – Unpacking the US Electoral System.”
The event was honored to welcome Mr. Rustum Nyquist, Political Officer at the US Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, as the keynote speaker. HUFLIT Representatives are Dr. Ngo Thi Bich Lan, Vice Dean and Acting Head of FIR&C, Ms. Thai Hoang Hanh Nguyen, Vice Dean of FIR&C, Faculty members and 100 students from the FIR&C Faculty.
Mr. Rustum Nyquist, Political Officer, US Consulate General, Ho Chi Minh City - Guest Speaker
Mr. Nyquist commenced his presentation by emphasizing the significance of US presidential elections. He underlined how the electoral system not only ensures political stability but also serves as a profound reflection of the nation’s democratic values:
“Elections play a vital role in ensuring that power transitions peacefully and orderly—from the people to elected representatives, and from one administration to the next,” he remarked.
He provided an overview of the key participants in the electoral process, voting eligibility, and unique campaign strategies employed during presidential elections. From leveraging voter data to deploying targeted campaigns in swing states, Mr. Nyquist’s analysis shed light on the intricate and sophisticated mechanisms of the US electoral system. He highlighted how every vote holds critical importance within the distinct framework of the Electoral College.
Following the presentation, students actively participated in a lively Q&A session. Topics included the role of social media in elections, the influence of international issues on voter psychology, and current challenges facing the electoral system. Mr. Nyquist’s detailed and persuasive responses provided students with a deeper understanding of the complexities of the US presidential election system.
Through his captivating delivery, Mr. Nyquist not only provided valuable information but also encouraged students to critically analyze the interplay between politics, media, and society. The event created an ideal academic platform for FIR&C students to connect with global realities and gain a comprehensive perspective on international political issues
At the conclusion of the session, the FIR&C leadership expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Nyquist. The students enthusiastically showed their appreciation for his enlightening discussion and engaging approach. The special lecture, “The US Presidential Election 2024 – Unpacking the US Electoral System,” concluded successfully. It was not merely an academic event but also a platform for valuable learning, equipping FIR&C students with foundational knowledge of international politics. The session was conducted entirely in English, covering both the presentation and the interactive segments.
