A panel of commentators who write about and research political issues will gather to discuss what's ahead for Democrats in 2004 at noon Wednesday, Jan. 28, at The Inn on Broadway.

Invited panelists are Fredric Dicker, state editor of the New York Post and political columnist; Philip Friedman, national Democratic consultant; Gerald Gamm, department chair and associate professor of political science and history at the University of Rochester; and John Zogby, president and CEO of the polling firm John Zogby International. They will analyze the candidates, the issues, and the prospects for the Democratic Party in this presidential year.

The group and moderator Curt Smith will share opinions about how the Democratic candidates stack up and their prospects for defeating President George W. Bush. Smith is former speechwriter for President George H. W. Bush, and senior lecturer at the University.

Admission to "Contemporary Issues Luncheon—The Democrats: A Look at 2004" is $15 per person. Advance reservations can be made by calling the Fairbank Alumni House at (585) 273-5888; any available seating can be paid for at the door beginning at 11:30 a.m. The Inn offers limited free parking, or additional parking can be found at the East End Garage.

The event, which is sponsored by the University of Rochester Alumni Association, is open to the public.