As Democrats across the country continue to make their voices heard in support of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, the focus of this year’s election is quickly turning to Chicago as we prepare to welcome thousands of delegates, volunteers and elected officials for this summer’s convention.
As a state senator, I represent a lakefront district that runs from Navy Pier all the way to the Indiana border, and I know that this city is the quintessential choice for hosting the Democratic National Convention. Chicago’s rich tapestry of diverse culture, union history and Midwest grit sets the stage for a convention that will not only be memorable but also deeply impactful for the working people of Chicago and far beyond.
Our city’s significance in national politics cannot be overstated. Illinois, alongside neighboring states such as Wisconsin, Michigan and Minnesota, form the “blue wall,” providing Democratic presidents with the votes needed to become president and, in turn, shape the political landscape of our nation. In particular, the Black communities of Chicago have long molded Democratic politics, starting with the grassroots organizing I myself was a part of extending all the way to Barack Obama’s White House. With the power of our voices and our vote, we have earned this opportunity this summer.
And we will not disappoint.
Chicago is no stranger to these historic gatherings, having hosted 25 conventions since 1860 — the most of any city in America. Our city offers unparalleled lodging, transportation and accessibility for convention attendees. For the last several years, Chicago has served as a hub for major conventions, sporting events and weeklong festivities, and we have proved that we have the infrastructure needed to host large-scale events in a safe and successful manner — this summer’s convention will be no different.
Together, as a city, we have the opportunity to showcase the tangible benefits of the Biden-Harris administration’s policies firsthand. Thanks to progress made by Biden and Democrats at the state and local level, Chicago is experiencing a renaissance marked by a revitalized manufacturing sector that is driving economic growth and opportunity.
From the storied factories of the South Side to the bustling tech hubs of the West Loop, our city is once again on the move and ready to welcome thousands of Democrats this August. Our thriving local businesses, diverse workforce and vibrant communities are testaments to the positive impact of Democratic leadership at the local, state and national levels — all of which will be on display this summer.
We also have state-of-the-art event sites such as the United Center, a beloved landmark that has welcomed millions of visitors since its opening and will serve as the perfect venue for primetime programming and speeches. Meanwhile, McCormick Place, the crown jewel of Chicago’s convention scene, will host daytime activities and meetings, all of which will be powered by union labor.
We also know that conventions can be logistical nightmares for delegates who are unable to secure lodging within city limits — but that will not be the case this summer. With a wide array of accommodations available downtown, delegates from across the country will feel right at home in our vibrant city and won’t have to travel more than a few miles to get from event to event.
Like every other major city in America, Chicago faces its challenges — challenges that today’s Democratic Party is uniquely prepared to solve. We shouldn’t shy away from the problems we all know we face such as the migrant crisis and gun violence. The DNC is the exact moment Chicago needs to galvanize Democrats across the country to come together and nominate the only candidate who understands the complexity of these issues and is ready to help.
Let us remember that Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is responsible for busing thousands of migrants to our city instead of rolling up his sleeves and finding sustainable ways to welcome migrants who’ve faced perilous journeys to get here. This is a political strategy in an election year that ignores human suffering for the sake of political jockeying on immigration policy, and it’s ugly, callous and un-American.
So, too, is the Republican Party to blame for the proliferation of guns in this country and the war on drugs that criminalized and jailed Black and brown Americans for decades, reinforcing the cycle of poverty, crime and disinvestment. Illinois has, after decades, eliminated cash bail and banned assault-style weapons — victories that over time will help communities recover and rebuild from the disastrous Republican policies of the past.
Despite their failures of leadership, Chicago is in the midst of a renaissance. We’re emerging from the pandemic stronger. We’re casting off the toxic machine politics that defined the city since the Industrial Revolution by electing more diverse, progressive candidates. Chicago truly is the face of the future of this country and a shining example of the strength of the Democratic Party.
And, as I talk to small business owners, public servants and the working families in my community, one thing is clear. The people of Chicago are ready and excited to host this summer’s DNC — and we will meet the moment by putting on the most successful, inclusive and safe convention Democrats have ever had.
Nearly 15 years ago, I watched from my dorm room as 240,000 Americans in Grant Park, cheering on Obama as he delivered his victory speech after being elected our 44th president. I remember feeling proud that the very best of Chicago was on display for the rest of the world to see.
All these years later, we will come together again as a city and showcase the best of our city at the DNC as we send Biden and Harris back on the path to the White House.
State Sen. Robert Peters, a Democrat, represents the 13th District.
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