The political process shouldn’t become anymore interesting than it was a few weeks ago in Boston and will be this week in New York City.

In what is becoming one of the most anticipated and intriguing presidential elections in many years, the Republican National Convention descends upon the mecca that is NYC.

Along with President George W. Bush and the rest of the GOP, a group of around 100,000 protesters and John Kerry supporters have been drawn to the city as well. As if New York wasn’t crowded enough.

But, unlike the Democratic National Convention, many college kids at different universities across the country will not be enthused to watch the Republican convention considering how college campuses are known for their liberal leaning. Traditionally, many of the younger voters have been in support of the Democratic party and opposed to conservative ideas.

The conservative ideal seems best fit for those who have already made their way in life, complete with family and financial security.

Hopefully the protesting will be done in a tasteful and dignified way, instead of causing blemishes on the political process, such as the 1968 Democratic National Convention that caused riots and overreaction in Chicago.

For those who have already chosen their political alliance, this is where the problem of rioting can get out of control.

Hopefully, as a country, we have learned to avoid those types of situations, focusing instead on gaining knowledge about the candidates and their parties through forums such as the conventions. Being closed-minded and unwilling to learn about either of the two parties one may have chosen against is an injustice to politics and the right to vote as an American.

The issues that both of the parties deal with are, in essence, different so that the American people can choose the candidate they feel the most comfortable with.

The presidential election this year has caused a severe divisiveness throughout the country as people are more interested in topics such as the war in Iraq, an up-and-down economy and the uncertainty of what the next four years will bring.

However, with that increase in passion placed on the candidates, a dangerous aspect could sneak into the consciences of the decided voter. That factor could simply be closed-minded voters who refuse to listen to what the other party may be saying or expressing.

For better or worse, both of the parties are trying to make points on issues that are the heaviest influences on American politics.

To say that you disagree with a party so much that you won’t even listen to their points places the voter at a disadvantage, because they are voting without as much knowledge as they could have gained had they listened.

It may be painful for Democrats to watch the Republican National Convention, or vice-versa, but it should be done just so they know exactly what issues and policies they may be agreeing or disagreeing with.

Just like it was said in the classic of all classics, “The Godfather,” “Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.”