MILWAUKEE (AP) — Milwaukee has a strong affinity for Miller Beer, Brewers baseball, and the “Bronze Fonz” statue.
Being the deepest blue city in swing state Wisconsin, Milwaukee also has a fondness for Democrats.
Some find it challenging to accept that Milwaukee is hosting former President Donald Trump and the Republican National Convention next week while Chicago, just 90 miles to the south, welcomes President Joe Biden and Democrats in August.
The situation wasn’t helped by Trump referring to Milwaukee as “horrible” just a month before the convention starts on Monday.
These developments have left some Democrats feeling uneasy, particularly after Milwaukee missed out on hosting the Democratic National Convention in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic.
Local businesses are feeling the impact as well, with reservations promised during the RNC not materializing and protesters expressing concerns about their proximity to the convention site.
Individuals like Jake Schneider, a resident of Milwaukee, feel disheartened by the Republican Party coming to town and Trump’s negative comments about the city.
Despite the sentiments of local Democrats like Schneider, there are those who see the convention as an economic opportunity and a chance to showcase Milwaukee and Wisconsin on a national stage.
While the controversy around hosting the RNC continues, it underscores Wisconsin’s status as a key battleground state in the upcoming presidential election.
Although Milwaukee itself is heavily Democratic, the surrounding suburbs are where the real political battleground lies within the state.
Despite the mixed opinions regarding the convention, there is hope that it will bring positive attention to Milwaukee and help energize both political parties’ supporters.
As the convention approaches, the city remains divided on the impact and significance of hosting such a high-profile political event.
