Chicago goes for DNC encore in 2028

The Democratic National Committee announced Monday that Chicago was one of five frontrunner cities to host the 2028 Democratic National Convention.

Why it matters: Hosting back-to-back conventions would bring another massive economic windfall — and another week of security perimeters, protests and downtown disruption.

The big picture: The city and state are pushing hard to get the DNC to return, which would be the first time a city has hosted back-to-back since New York City in 1976 and 1980.

• DNC records show that Chicago has hosted the convention a record 11 times.

State of play: The National Democratic Committee is deciding among Denver, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Boston and Chicago.

What they're saying: "With our extensive track record of safely and successfully hosting large-scale events, our vibrant and diverse culture, and our status as a world-class destination — we're confident that Chicago is best positioned to put on a convention that matches the enthusiasm, success, and energy of the 2024 DNC," the Chicago Bid Committee said in a statement.

• "The team that brought Democrats the best political convention is ready to do it again."

By the numbers: That may not be hyperbole. The 2024 DNC was a smash success for the city, generating $371.4 million in economic impact, which is the most in convention history.

• The 2024 DNC brought in about 50,000 visitors, which is similar to other major McCormick Place conventions like the National Restaurant Association's annual meeting.
• The city reaped the benefits, using federal funds to fast-track a new Green Line CTA station at Damen near the United Center.
• The Chicago 2024 Host Committee also boasted investing over $3 million back into the city, mainly by supporting non-profit organizations and philanthropic causes.

Flashback: Last time, the Chicago host committee raised $97 million and spent only $83 million, leaving a debt-free convention.

• Gov. JB Pritzker was a big part of that financial push, even donating over $5 million himself.
• It's unclear if he would be the governor in 2028. He may be a presidential candidate vying for a DNC nomination, which means he could use his money elsewhere on the campaign trail.

The other side: While the city's bid committee paints a rosy picture, many Chicagoans didn't attend the convention festivities, and some businesses forced employees to work remotely to avoid downtown.

• Also, the city boasts millions in positive economic benefits, but some restaurants and neighborhood businesses reported that the DNC crowds didn't materialize.
• Protesters also criticized the DNC's security protocols, which they say infringed on their constitutional rights.
• Many Chicago commuters were caught in rolling road closures throughout the city.

The bottom line: It's hard to argue with the success of the last political convention, but it still raises the question of whether Chicagoans want to do it all over again.

What's next: Democratic Party leaders plan to visit the five finalists this spring to evaluate logistical and operational considerations for hosting such a large event. The Democratic convention will be held Aug. 7–10, 2028.

What do you think? Take our poll on whether we should host the 2028 DNC here.