Here & Now

Dem. Nat'l Convention No Longer Taking Place in Milwaukee

Frederica Freyberg:

Milwaukee was set to share the national political spotlight in a little more than a week. That was until the Democratic National Committee announced Wednesday that the parties’ national convention is essentially cancelled, now but a virtual reality. No national speakers on site. No Joe Biden at the podium. Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett.

Tom Barrett:

Of course we’re disappointed. I would be lying if I didn’t tell you that I’m very, very disappointed in this professionally and personally because I think we all have had so much pride in having Milwaukee chosen to host the 2020 Democratic National Convention. Because this was the first time in the history of this city. It was the first time in the history of this state that we were chosen to host a major political party convention. And I was proud of that because I wanted to show off our city. I wanted the world to know Milwaukee’s story. I wanted local businesses to enjoy an economic boost. And obviously those opportunities are not going to occur in the next couple weeks.