CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The presentation to Democratic National Committee (DNC) members kicked off on Chicago’s West Side with a performance by the Soul Children of Chicago and Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s declaration that Chicago is good for the Democratic party.
Lightfoot said that the convention would bolster what has already been the city’s strong recovery from the pandemic.
“We’re back,” Lightfoot said. “We’re ready. Why not Chicago.”
DNC Chair Jaime Harrison was, of course, noncommittal, but he agreed that Chicago is a city that would meet the DNC’s main points.
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“When we go and look for the cities, we are looking for a city that represents the democratic party’s values: diversity, inclusion, [and] opportunity,” Harrison said.
The Democratic Party of Illinois Chair Robin Kelly, who also represents Illinois' 2nd Congressional District, said the convention would be a showcase for all of the state.
“No state mirrors the diversity of our nation better than Illinois,” Kelly said. “Chicago is a thriving, world-class city surrounded by diverse suburbs. Downstate Illinois is covered with strong, farmland communities and [is] dotted with small- and medium-sized cities that are innovating and growing.”
Gov. J.B. Pritzker suggested Chicago reflects the diversity inherent in the Biden-Harris ticket.
“What we have to show off is the neighborhoods and the people of the city of Chicago to represent what Joe Biden and Kamala Harris represent,” Pritzker said. “I’m really pleased that we get to showcase this great city.”
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Later, Harrison was asked about suggestions that the convention be held in Texas or Georgia to help the party’s chances in those states.
He said he doesn’t buy that.
“We held a convention in Philadelphia, and we didn’t win Pennsylvania that year,” Harrison said. “We held a convention in Charlotte and we didn’t win North Carolina that year. Bottom line is, it’s about the show. It’s about putting on the best show possible.”
Lightfoot said hosting the 2024 DNC Convention would give the city a chance to “claim our narrative on a global stage.” She added that Chicago is still benefiting from hosting the DNC in 1996.
“The convention sparked development around the United Center, leading to the restaurants, shops, and residences we see today in the West Loop and Fulton Market District, where we are in right now,” she said.
DNC officials will be looking at things like convention venues, hotel accommodations, and other facilities during this visit to Chicago.
Other cities that submitted a bid to host the 2024 convention include New York City, Atlanta, and Houston.
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