2024 DNC in Chicago was no repeat of ‘68
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Protests over the war in Gaza at this week's DNC were mostly peaceful — letting the city avoid a repeat of 56 years ago when riot police and anti-Vietnam War protesters clashed for days during the 1968 DNC.
The big picture: Months of pro-Palestinian protests stoked fears that the 2024 Democratic National Convention would result in violent demonstrations.
Reality check: The largest protests near the United Center this week were smaller than expected and largely peaceful.
- "I know a lot of people were hoping for a failure and that the Republicans were crossing their fingers hoping something terrible would happen and the narrative of what they've tried to make Chicago look to be would come through with some terrible graphics. But that didn't happen because this is the greatest city in America," Illinois comptroller Susanna Mendoza said.
Between the lines: A big difference between then and now is city leadership — activists and Mayor Brandon Johnson share similar stances on calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, compared with Mayor Richard J. Daley, who in 1968 unleashed riot police on protesters and was largely seen as ruling with an iron fist.
- There's also more scrutiny on police now than 55 years ago, as the department is under a federal mandate for reform, and training has improved after protests in 2020 after the murder of George Floyd.
- "I commended the mayor the other day for the way that I think law enforcement has handled demonstrations. We've seen protests which are fine. We recognize the rights of individuals. The country was founded on protest. They have the right to do it and they have the responsibility to do it," Rep. Danny Davis told Axios.
Yes, but: Groups like Behind Enemy Lines and CodePink have led actions at various DNC events, in neighborhoods and in the Loop, leading to dozens of arrests.
What they're saying: Lauren Langman marched last Sunday along Chicago's Magnificent Mile and was also active in 1968 protests. He said this year would be different.
- "It's going to be much more peaceful because the diversity of the people that are here — abortion rights, gay rights, opposition to the war in [Gaza] that's being funded by the United States," Langman told Axios.
- "'68 was almost all white guys, and it was a single issue — stopping the war in Vietnam."
What we're watching: Chicago and DNC leaders will do a victory lap now, but it will be months until the public will know how much the DNC really cost in terms of police overtime and other resources.