‘Born ready’: Leaders say Chicago is prepared for safe DNC next month

CHICAGO (WCIA) — Officials said they are preparing for the influx of thousands of Democratic politicians, supporters and protestors coming to Illinois next month with the Democratic National Convention.

Officials from all levels of government have been planning security for the DNC since it was announced last year. The convention will be held in Chicago landmarks like the United Center and the McCormick Place.

Illinois governor J.B. Pritzker said the city will be ready for out-of-town convention-goers. Pritzker is reportedly being vetted as a candidate for vice president on Kamala Harris’ presidential ticket but denied Thursday that he has talked to the campaign about the role.

“The eyes of the world will be on our great city,” he said at a security briefing to the media Thursday.

Officials stressed that Chicago is equipped to handle security for the convention, even after the assassination attempt of Republican presidential candidate and former president Donald Trump earlier this month. The head of the Secret Service has since resigned after being grilled in a Congressional hearing.

The event has been designated a National Special Security Event, meaning the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Secret Service are taking the lead on security for the convention. The last NSSE Chicago hosted was the 2012 NATO Summit. The RNC in Milwaukee was also an NSSE.

“What will take place next month is a beautiful display of American democracy in action,” Pritzker said. “Here in Chicago, millions will watch, tens of thousands visiting from around the globe and around the United States, will witness a triumph of political expression and engagement, doing so without fearing for their safety.”

Chicago has hosted the DNC more than 20 times, most recently in 1996 and 1968.

Chicago mayor Brandon Johnson highlighted the “Windy City” will be the backdrop for Harris’ historic nomination.

“Chicago has already cemented itself in history for electing trailblazers to the highest office in the land,” Johnson said. “And as we prepare for the first Black woman to win the democratic nomination for President of these United States, there’s no better place to host than right here in the city of Chicago.”

Law enforcement is prepared for both planned and pop-up protestors.

“The shared goal is for everyone to express their views lawfully, while ensuring a safe environment for delegates, convention attendees, and the general public,” Deputy Special Agent in Charge Derek Mayer of the Secret Service said.

The DNC is from Aug. 19 to 22.

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