The countdown to the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee has begun.
Ronna McDaniel, chairwoman of the Republican National Committee, was in Milwaukee on Thursday to check on preparations and meet with business leaders to kick off next year’s big political show.
“For us, this is the perfect venue to highlight our 2024 presidential nominee,” McDaniel said at a news conference. “It’s also the perfect venue to provide the best representation experience for people from all over the country, from all regions.”
McDaniel acknowledged Wisconsin is a “battlefield state,” but added, “We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the beautiful city of Milwaukee.”
“You do have a city that shines,” said McDaniel, who praised Milwaukee for its political and business leadership. “I’m excited to bring the world into Milwaukee, not just for the Republican Party, but to help businesses and business owners and highlight the bipartisan efforts that make great contributions to this urban community.”
McDaniel was able to turn his attention to the convention after winning re-election last week and serving a fourth, two-year term as party chairman. On Thursday, she also announced that the city will host a primary debate during the election cycle — possibly as early as later this year.
Her appearance in Milwaukee comes as Republicans gear up for the presidential nomination battle. Former President Donald Trump has already entered the race, and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley will announce his candidacy on February 15. Other candidates are expected to enter the race in the coming months.
Here is information about the convention:
When is the 2024 Republican National Convention?
The conference will take place from July 15-18, 2024.
Where will the convention be held in Milwaukee?
The Fiserv Forum will be the hub of events, and the newly expanded Wisconsin Center will also be a major venue.
Where will the delegates stay for the RNC?
Delegates and their guests will be staying at hotels within 30 minutes of Fiserv Forum, and up to 50,000 visitors, including media, are expected to attend the event. A Chicago-based company is signing contracts with more than 300 motels and hotels within a 60-mile radius of the Fiserv Forum.
What does the host committee do and what role does Reince Priebus play in the convention?
Fundraising for the event is handled by the convention’s hosting committee, which is headed by Reince Priebus, a former White House chief of staff under Trump. Steve King is CEO, Gerard Randall is Secretary and Alison Prange is Senior Advisor and Chief of Staff.
The host committee is responsible for signing contracts with major venues and establishing transportation systems for the conference.
“Our job is to highlight this great city, great people, great country,” Priebus said. “Exposing the city to the world.” The goal, he added, is to ensure that “everywhere in the city is enjoying the economic prosperity that comes from this convention.”
“We’re going to try to disperse delegates and guests throughout the area,” he said.
The Republican National Committee’s Scheduling Committee will chair the convention. Members of the group have not yet been named.
How much money needs to be raised for the RNC?
The committee’s fundraising goal is approximately $68 million. Priebus said the host committee was “well ahead of schedule” in raising funds, but did not provide a specific amount.
The host committee has established a website www.mke2024host.org. The site will be updated with business and volunteer opportunities.
Who is in charge of the city’s efforts?
Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson has appointed a conference steering group to coordinate the city’s plan, which was recently laid out in a PowerPoint presentation to a key mutual board committee. The big item that Milwaukee will have to apply for is a security grant from the federal government, estimated to be around $50 million.
“Milwaukee is ready for big conventions and big events to come to our city,” Johnson said, expressing confidence that the funding will be approved.
Who is on Mayor Cavalier Johnson’s Steering Group?
The co-chairs are Johnson’s chief of staff Nick DeSiato and attorney Andrea Fowler, who helped the city negotiate contracts with the Republican National Committee and now oversee the city’s hundreds of millions of dollars in Administration and program management are receiving federal American Rescue Act funding.
Other members include:
- Lafayette Crump, Urban Development Commissioner.
- Jeff Fleming, the mayor’s communications director.
- Bryan Rynders, Budget and Fiscal Policy Operations Manager, City Administration.
- Rhonda Kelsey, the city’s procurement director.
What are the five goals of the Steering Committee?
- Host a safe, successful event for Republican delegates and city residents.
- Continue to participate in common committees.
- Showcasing Milwaukee’s “beauty and vibrancy” to a national audience.
- Enabling economic opportunity for local businesses and workers “through the lens of equity and inclusion”.
- Communicate effectively with local communities.
