(SQAUK) CHICAGO, Illinois — The Democratic National Committee (DNC) is gearing up to start its national convention at the United Center on Monday, August 19. The city is on edge due to increased political tensions, planned rallies, and a significant law enforcement presence. Many Chicago residents are bracing for what some call ‘Hell Week.’
The event, featuring speeches from President Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton, is intended to energize the Democratic base and set the stage for Kamala Harris’s potential ascension to the presidency in 2025. However, the convention has drawn controversy and concern, particularly from those living near the United Center, who say the area has been transformed into a virtual fortress.
In the days leading up to the convention, the neighborhood surrounding the United Center has seen an influx of steel fencing, concrete barricades, and surveillance equipment. Local authorities have ramped up security to unprecedented levels, with a heavy law enforcement presence that has some residents feeling trapped in their homes.
“It feels like we’ve been locked down in a prison,” said one resident who lives just a few blocks from the venue. “The barricades, the constant surveillance—and the event hasn’t even started.”
The city is preparing for protests, particularly from groups like Antifa, which has led to concerns about possible unrest. The presence of what some have described as ‘anti-American demonstrators’ has added to the anxiety. These concerns were heightened when unknown actors reportedly dropped off pallets of bricks near the convention site, raising fears of orchestrated chaos.
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Law enforcement considers these measures necessary to ensure the safety of all involved. The DNC and its supporters argue that extensive security measures are essential to protect the event and its attendees, especially given the high-profile nature of the speakers and the volatile political climate. President Biden and Hillary Clinton are scheduled to take the stage on Monday to start the event, a symbolic moment that many hope will rally support for the Democratic ticket.
Some critics think these measures are too extreme and just part of the political show. The presence of the bricks, in particular, has caused much controversy. While some people think the bricks could be used to stir up violence, others believe political groups are strategically using them to paint a picture of chaos that can be blamed on the opposing side.
“This is nothing more than a setup,” commented Sqauk chief editor Shepard Ambellas. “The chaos that might unfold will be spun as the fault of Republicans, a tactic to paint them as the party of violence and disorder.”
The impending arrival of the DNC has also affected local businesses. Many establishments in the area have boarded up their windows and announced temporary closures, opting to err on the side of caution as the convention occurs. The financial impact of these closures is likely to be significant, particularly for small businesses that rely on daily foot traffic to stay afloat.
“It’s a lose-lose situation,” said the owner of a local cafe. “We either stay open and risk getting caught in the middle of whatever happens, or we close and lose out on a week’s worth of income.” This sentiment is echoed by many other small business owners in the area, who are grappling with the difficult decision of whether to stay open or close during the convention.
As Chicago awaits the political onslaught, the atmosphere is one of palpable tension. Sunday, the day before the convention’s official start, has been described by many as the ‘calm before the storm.’ With security at an all-time high and the potential for clashes on the horizon, Chicago residents are left to wonder just how turbulent the upcoming days will be.
The events unfolding in Chicago over the next week will be closely watched and could significantly impact not only the city’s residents but also the upcoming election and the political landscape across the country. The outcome of this convention could potentially shape public perception of the Democratic Party and its candidates and thereby affect their chances in the 2024 and 2028 elections.
