The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has officially announced the location for its 2024 Democratic National Convention: Chicago. The convention will take place at the United Center from August 19 to 22, marking a strategic return to the Midwest, a region of critical importance for the Democratic Party.
This decision underscores the significance of the Midwest, particularly states like Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota. These states, often referred to as the “blue wall,” played a decisive role in the 2020 election victory of President Biden and Vice President Harris. Their continued support was also evident in the 2022 midterm elections, highlighting the region’s consistent Democratic leanings. Choosing Chicago as the DNC convention location emphasizes the party’s focus on maintaining and strengthening its base in this vital area.
Chicago’s bid to host the convention received broad support from Midwestern Democrats, representing the diverse spectrum of the party. This unified backing showcases the strong coalition that Democrats are aiming to build upon to re-elect President Biden and Vice President Harris, and to secure victories for Democratic candidates across the ballot in 2024. The convention in Chicago will serve as a platform to highlight President Biden’s economic policies, which are centered on infrastructure development, a resurgence in manufacturing, and the creation of well-paying jobs for the middle class. Chicago itself has already benefited from Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, receiving $144 million for the rehabilitation of the Illinois International Port Calumet River Bridges, part of a larger multi-billion dollar investment aimed at boosting economic opportunities throughout the region.
“Chicago is a great choice to host the 2024 Democratic National Convention,” stated President Joe Biden, emphasizing the strategic importance of the chosen location. “Democrats will convene to showcase our historic progress, including building an economy from the middle out and bottom up, not from the top down. From repairing our infrastructure to sparking a manufacturing resurgence and generating over 12.5 million new, well-paying jobs, we have already achieved significant progress for hardworking Americans – and now we are focused on finishing the job.”
DNC Chair Jaime Harrison also expressed enthusiasm about the DNC location. “I am thrilled that Democrats will gather in Chicago to articulate our party’s vision and values,” Harrison said. “The Midwest is a microcosm of America and offers Democrats a valuable opportunity to showcase the impactful achievements of President Biden and Vice President Harris for American families. I extend my gratitude to the Chicago bid leadership for their exceptional partnership, as well as to the other cities that presented compelling bids.”
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker highlighted Chicago’s global appeal and hospitality. “The 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago will welcome individuals from across the country to a memorable event that underscores our party’s commitment to uplifting working families and those who have been too often marginalized,” said Governor Pritzker. “Our world-class city, with its diverse communities, renowned hospitality, and exceptional venues, exemplifies the best of America, and its people embody the heart of our nation.”
Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) further emphasized the strategic advantage of holding the convention in Chicago. “The Midwest is pivotal for a victory in 2024, and Chicago is ideally positioned to connect with these voters,” Senator Duckworth stated. “I eagerly anticipate welcoming the world to Illinois in 2024 and demonstrating what can be achieved when we unite to build a future based on policies that deliver for American families.”
Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot conveyed her deep honor at the selection. “I am deeply honored that President Biden and the DNC have chosen Chicago,” said Mayor Lightfoot. “I commend all the City government leaders who demonstrated Chicago’s proven excellence, assuring the DNC, convention delegates, volunteers, and all attendees a first-class experience in our world-class city. The DNC convention will generate once-in-a-generation opportunities for job creation and business growth in Chicago, and I am proud that we secured this for the people of our city.”
Mayor-Elect Brandon Johnson of Chicago echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Chicago’s capabilities for hosting large-scale events. “Chicago is a world-class city that reflects the diversity of America and embodies the values of the Democratic Party,” said Mayor-Elect Johnson. “Our city is unmatched in hosting events of this magnitude. I look forward to collaborating closely with the DNC to deliver a spectacular convention that showcases Chicago’s vibrant culture, our stunning lakefront, our acclaimed hospitality sector, and, most importantly, our incredible people.”
The selection of Chicago as the DNC convention location followed a thorough site selection process. This process was spearheaded by DNC Director of Convention Planning Alex Hornbrook and involved a Technical Advisory Group composed of seasoned professionals with extensive experience in multiple convention cycles. These experts, specializing in areas such as housing, transportation, infrastructure, security, accessibility, and venue logistics, conducted site visits to Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, and New York. Following evaluations and contract negotiations with a final group of cities, Chicago emerged as the chosen host for the 2024 Democratic National Convention, solidifying its place as the location where the DNC will convene.
