The Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago has brought heightened security measures to the city, with Chicago police taking the lead in protecting residents, protesters, property, businesses, and neighborhoods. While there is some backup from departments outside of Chicago, including Milwaukee, where the Republican National Convention was held, the majority of the security efforts are being carried out by the Chicago Police Department (CPD).
According to law enforcement officials, CPD officers are working 12-hour shifts to cover both the Democratic National Convention and their regular community beats. The U.S. Secret Service is also heavily involved in securing convention venues, delegates, party officials, and candidates. They have employed hundreds of federal officers from specialized teams at other agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
One of the key security measures being implemented is the use of bomb-detecting canine units and explosives technicians. ATF-Chicago Special Agent K-9 Handler Kurt Bentley mentioned that they are bringing in 10 canines to search for unattended baggage and suspicious packages during the event. The DNC in Chicago has been designated as a National Special Security Event, indicating that the government believes it could be a potential target for terrorism or criminal activity.
The security measures at the DNC include screening by Department of Defense Canines for anyone entering the inner perimeter of the event. Federal dog teams are also screening buses and other vehicles at locations like the United Center and McCormick Place, where DNC meetings are being held. U.S. Coast Guard teams are patrolling the lake to ensure the safety of the event.
The Secret Service is overseeing all security operations for the DNC, with a „whole of government“ approach in place. Derek Mayer from the Secret Service emphasized that security planning has been ongoing since April of 2023. The recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump has put the Secret Service under scrutiny, but they are committed to ensuring the safety of all attendees at the DNC.
CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling has outlined the police strategy for maintaining order at permitted protests during the DNC. This strategy involves flooding the protest route with patrol officers and bike units, protecting property, and utilizing city Streets and San snow plows for traffic and crowd control. While no riot gear was visible during a recent protest, police assets are always ready to respond to any potential threats.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has stated that 250 Illinois National Guard military police are on standby for the DNC. Their role would be to manage street closures and traffic flows to support the Chicago police. Businesses in downtown Chicago have taken precautions by boarding up storefronts, but most retail outlets on Michigan Avenue are under the protection of Chicago police officers.
Overall, the security measures in place for the DNC in Chicago are comprehensive and designed to ensure the safety of all participants. With a combination of local law enforcement, federal agencies, and the National Guard, authorities are prepared to respond to any potential security threats during the event.