Chicago is infamous for its politics, and the Presidential debates are supposed to help us decide where to place our multiple votes. If not helpful, the Vice-Presidential debates on Thursday should be at least entertaining. Perhaps Biden will make another historical faux pas. Maybe Palin will say... anything. You can share some drinks and laughs with your fellow donkeys or elephants at viewing parties around the city.
Democrats are spoiled here in Barack Obama's Senatorial home. Nearly every viewing party will be a leaning-left one. That includes the watch party at M Lounge, which includes complimentary appetizers and $5 Call cocktails. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the debates start at 8 p.m. (312-447-0201) Or combine your love of beers, Barack, and baseball at Fitzgerald's in Berwyn. Here, you can cheer on both the Cubs and Joe Biden, beginning at 7 p.m. (708-788-2118)
Republicans are a rare breed in this Democratic stronghold, but they're not completely extinct. The Vice-Presidential Debate-Watching Party (sponsored by the Republican National Hispanic Assembly) will attract conservatives from all over Cook County, including Senators Dan Rutherford and Christine Radogno. The Hilton Chicago event begins at 7 p.m. and includes three hours of open bar for a $30 cover.
Finally, if all this political mess has left you incredibly confused, the Chicago History Museum hosts a potentially unbiased outlook as part of its monthly series, In the K/Now. An open panel discussion featuring Ben Calhoun (Chicago Public Radio) and Laura Washington (Chicago Sun-Times) begins at 7 p.m. (312-642-4600)
