Now that both major political parties have had their conventions, some are questioning whether the tradition should continue. FOX's Russ Bowen explains why some say the conventions cost more than they're worth. Over the past 2 weeks, Democrats and Republicans have put on incredible shows, but the conventions are now more public relations than politics, begging the question: Are they worth it? Are they worth the nearly quarter of a billion dollars it costs to put them on?

"I would say they are so necessary," says Nebraska Delegate Maggie Wiederman. "This has been an amazing experience. I feel it's really fired up the base."

As you would imagine, most delegates feel the conventions aren't relics of the past, and are still viable.

"It is an organizational opportunity as well as a messaging opportunity," says North Carolina Delegate Valerie Barnes. "And I think that it is important both parties get an equal amount of money to at least start their convention because this is really a phenomenal way to get your message out."

Most, but not all.

"You know, everything is decided ahead of time, so I don't know what the purpose is anymore," says Minnesota Delegate Steve Linnerooth.

In the ever-evolving political landscape, are the conventions now obsolete? Unnecessary?

"Now that we don't have the floor fights during the nomination process, since those days have kind of gone away, I really can't forecast what the future will be," says North Carolina Delegate Bob McCollum.

This year, the Federal Election Commission gave each Party over $18 million for their conventions. Congress then set aside $50 million each for security. That's $136 million of your money.

"Being able to bring people together in person, have the conversations about here's what's going on in the various states, be blunt with each other, talk about the policies we need to move forward and make America better for everybody is essential and a great use of taxpayer dollars," says Momsrising.org's Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner.

In Charlotte alone, we've seen Secret Service, the FBI, Customs & Border Protection, TSA, State Police, and Police from cities and towns across the country. It's not just a momentary cost, but a manpower cost. To many, it's worth every penny.

"I think it helps the city and the local economy wherever these conventions are held, so it's a double benefit," says Cleveland Rankin of High Point, North Carolina.

To others, can you justify spending that kind of money in these tough economic times? In all likelihood, the big conventions aren't going anywhere. Will Democrats and Republicans be able to keep selling them to the American people? You can find all our WASTE WATCH stories on Fox17.com. Just go to HOT TOPICS and click on WASTE WATCH. You can also submit your ideas for WASTE WATCH stories in that same section.
WASTE WATCH: Convention Costs