Two main political parties in the United States are pumped up for the upcoming presidential election.

For the Democratic Party, this is a historic moment since they have put forward the first African-American presidential candidate.

For the Republicans it is also historic. Republican Party has chosen a woman as their vice presidential candidate. It is also a battle for credibility with regard to their domestic and foreign policy.

Dr. Ali Riaz

In today's show, our listeners asked questions regarding issues and policies relevant to US presidential election including Iraq war, Israel-Palestinian conflict, Barack Obama and John McCain's credentials etc.

Hita Brata Ray

Our panelists are Dr Ali Riaz, Hita Brata Ray and Iffat Nawaz.

Dr. Ali Riaz is the Chairman of the Department of Politics and Government at Illinois State University. He is currently a full  Professor. Prior to joining Illinois State University he has taught at Claflin University in South Carolina, and the University of Lincoln in England.

Iffat Nawaz

Hita Brata Ray formerly of Foreign Service Institute, is a political commentator and writer. He is also known as an avid “Dotara” player.

Iffat Nawaz is a Bangladeshi American writer and has a regular column in a newspaper in Bangladesh. She writes on immigrant issues in the USA. She is based in Washington DC.

Ahsanul Huq hosted the show.