Assistant Public Affairs Officer Cybèle Cochran traveled to eastern Switzerland on March 9 to speak at the Reformierte Kirchgemeinde Sargans. The group had invited her to talk about the American political system to their Continuing Education division. Forty congregation members attended the presentation where they learned about the system of checks and balances in the U.S., the differences between state and local government and the U.S. presidential election. Cochran also described current debates around voter registration, congressional redistricting and campaign financing. Participants made full use of the question and answer session to discuss American media and political trends. Cochran said, “I enjoy having the opportunity to explain the systems and structures that can seem mystifying. When a new administration comes into office, people wonder what to expect, and it’s always a pleasure to have the opportunity to discuss the issues.” A piece in the local daily, Sarganserländer, expressed appreciation for the informed presentation and rich discussion.
