Here & Now

Evers and Barnes Say Milwaukee Still Relevant to DNC

Zac Schultz:

Milwaukee was supposed to be the center of the political world when it hosted the Democratic National Convention. Now it’s been virtually hollowed out, another victim of the COVID-19 pandemic. But that doesn’t mean Wisconsin’s politicians won’t try to salvage something from this week. I spoke with Governor Tony Evers and Lt. Governor Mandela Barnes, to see if there is still something to be gained from the Milwaukee DNC.

Governor Tony Evers is trying to look on the bright side.

Tony Evers:

Certainly has changed, but it’s still really important.

Zac Schultz:

If nothing else, the symbolism of the Democratic National Convention coming to Milwaukee is still there. The reason the DNC chose Milwaukee is still relevant.

Tony Evers:

One thing that hasn’t changed is that the election goes through Wisconsin.

Mandela Barnes:

It’s unfortunate that we won’t have the same impact that we intended a year ago. That breaks my heart absolutely.

Zac Schultz:

It’s harder for Lt. Governor Mandela Barnes to hide his disappointment.

Mandela Barnes:

As someone who was looking forward to showing off his city and state to tens of thousands of my closest friends, not being able to do that is going to be, um, it’s going to be a little frustrating, but at the same time, we are still going to tell a Milwaukee story.

Crowd:

Hands up! Don’t shoot!

Zac Schultz:

At this point, the only story to tell, may be one of protests.

Mandela Barnes:

That’s natural for people to want to protest at an event as large scale as the DNC was going to be or even at the scale it will be.

Tony Evers:

Certainly there are going to be protests and I frankly hope those protesters are wearing masks and doing the things they need to do to be safe. That’s really critical, but people need an outlet and I’m sure that will happen in Milwaukee.