Gina good evening everyone. On behalf of the Edward M Kennedy institute for the United States senate, it is my pleasure to welcome you. We are going to have a conversation about the intersection of Early American History and contemporary political issues. First visit to the institute, i also want to welcome you to our fullscale replica of the United States senate chamber. We arekennedy institute, committed to engaging the public in a conversation about the role each one of us plays in our democracy and in our society. That through Civic Education programs that bring the United States senate to life, and conversation like tonight, that bring American History into focus. We are very proud to partner with the Massachusetts Historical Society on todays program. They are an invaluable resource for american life, history, and culture. All of us at the institute are proud together roy proud to gather and esteemed panel tonight. Wbur,overs politics at where he has been since 1998, breaking new