How important is the national party convention in current American politics?

Students' answers may vary.
Generally, it has decreased in importance for voters, although many people tuned in to watch the 2008 conventions.They used to include dramatic disputes over the most important issues of the day, and were covered entirely by three major networks.Now, it carries less importance for the average person because the event is scripted by party operatives to showcase the new presidential and vice-presidential nominees.Delegates, supposedly elected to represent the views of voters, are there less to discuss than to ratify choices and cheer for the nominee.Conventions are also vehicles for big donors, corporations, and economic sectors to influence the parties and their officeholders.Live coverage is slimmer now as well.