Davenport Discussion: "Politics of Fighting Radical Islam in 2016"

The School of Public Policy will host a Davenport Discussion, "Politics of Fighting Radical Islam in 2016," with former diplomat Christian Whiton on Monday, February 22, at noon in SPP 175.

Radical Islam is on the march globally and featuring prominently in the 2016 presidential campaign. Last year, violent jihadists struck with increasing frequency and lethality. Paris suffered three separate attacks and the assault on San Bernardino was the worst instance of terrorism on U.S. soil since 9/11. Meanwhile, U.S.-led efforts on the battlefield against ISIS are inconclusive and Americans and Europeans are debating the cultural impact of large numbers of Muslim refugees. A poll last fall revealed that 66 percent of Americans think that we are at war with radical Islam, and only 26 percent think the actions of the U.S. government have been “about right” in trying to stop ISIS.

In the presidential campaign, candidates have addressed the issue with proposals ranging from a ban on Muslim immigrants to a refusal to use the term “radical Islam.” 

Christian Whiton will discuss how various campaigns are addressing the issue of terrorism and radical Islam, as well as the policy options and challenges that will face the next administration. 

Whiton is a former diplomat, author, and presidential campaign advisor. Currently, Whiton is a principal at D.C. International Advisory, a political risk analysis and strategic communications firm. Previously, he served as a U.S. State Department official from 2003-2009, first as a special advisor to the Under Secretary of State for Global Affairs, and then as a deputy special envoy.

Each semester at the Pepperdine School of Public Policy, the Davenport Institute hosts a series of lunchtime Davenport Discussions with practitioners, journalists, innovators, and researchers who speak to students on a wide range of issues from state and local finance to the use of technology in government to the outlook for cities in a state budget crisis and much more. These interactive sessions give students an opportunity not only to hear from experts in the field but to ask questions and make personal connections as well. For more information, visit the School of Public Policy website or contact Ashley Trim.

Refreshments will be served.