Midwest
DNC host Chicago, haunted by 1968 convention rioting, braces for bloodshed
![DNC host Chicago, haunted by 1968 convention rioting, braces for bloodshed DNC host Chicago, haunted by 1968 convention rioting, braces for bloodshed](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1968-DNC-Riots-Chicago-Protests_01.jpg)
Federal, state and local authorities are hoping to keep Chicago violence to a minimum during the 2024 Democratic National Convention this week.
The Chicago Police Department, the Secret Service and other agencies have been planning the operation for months and delivering public updates on the measures they are taking to prevent planned demonstrations from devolving – which they’ve done before.
“Oftentimes, it is forgotten that there was a Democratic Convention between 1968 and now,” Police Superintendent Larry Snelling told reporters last week. “It was a success.”
He was speaking of Bill Clinton’s second nomination in 1996. Chicago has hosted more major party political conventions than any other city – 14 Republican conventions and 11 Democratic ones between 1860 and 1996, according to the Chicago History Museum. But 1968, marred by large-scale protests against the Vietnam War, stands out as the most infamous political convention in U.S. history.
CHAOS ERUPTS AT KAMALA HARRIS NYC EVENT AS DNC BRACES FOR CHICAGO UNREST
A demonstrator stands in front of a row of National Guard soldiers, across the street from the Hilton Hotel in Grant Park, site of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Aug. 26, 1968. (Library of Congress/Warren K. Leffler/Handout via Reuters)
This year, the first anti-Israel demonstration is scheduled for noon Monday at Union Park, a few blocks east of the United Center.
In 1968, anti-Vietnam War protesters clashed with police and National Guardsmen outside the convention that nominated Vice President Hubert Humphrey in his unsuccessful campaign against Richard Nixon. Like Vice President Kamala Harris now, Humphrey assumed the mantle of presidential nominee without winning support in the normal primary process.
The unpopular war and resulting draft were weighing heavily on the minds of many American voters – who were still reeling from a pair of assassinations earlier that year – the murders of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy.
![A police officer crossing the road with a photographer during an anti-war protest near the Democratic National Convention](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1724118735_871_DNC-host-Chicago-haunted-by-1968-convention-rioting-braces-for.jpg)
A police officer crosses the road with a photographer during an anti-war protest near the Democratic National Convention headquarters in Chicago, Aug. 26, 1968. (UPI/Bettmann Archive/Getty Images)
“[It’s] almost like you can change the issues and layer the events on top of each other,” one law enforcement source told Fox News Digital.
CHICAGO GETTING ‘WINDOW DRESSING FOR DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION: FORMER CHIEF
This year, organizers behind March on the DNC 2024 are demanding an end of U.S. support for Israel, legal status for 12 million illegal immigrants and abortion protections, among other left-wing items, as they pledge to rally at the start and end of the convention.
One protest planned for Tuesday at the Israeli consulate in Chicago calls to “make it great like ‘68.” The demonstration was promoted by the group Anti Imperialist Resistance on Instagram.
“Whether it’s Genocide Joe, or Killer Kamala, the butchers of Gaza cannot be allowed to gather in Chicago undisturbed,” the group’s post says.
Protesters were coordinating bus rides and drop-offs for fellow demonstrators from out of state, some of whom the source described as professional protesters.
Authorities have set up a secure perimeter around the two sites for this year’s DNC: the United Center and the McCormick Place Convention Center. And the approved route for demonstrators to march keeps them outside of it.
![Chicago police officers](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1724118735_12_DNC-host-Chicago-haunted-by-1968-convention-rioting-braces-for.jpg)
Chicago police officers train at McCormick Place, June 6, 2024, in preparation for the Democratic National Convention. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)
By the numbers
In 1968, massive left-wing protests against the Vietnam War erupted during the convention, prompting a violent police crackdown.
Protests raged for days outside the convention, outside the Hilton hotel where attendees were staying and in famous Chicago parks. At least one delegate was accused of attacking police at a gate along the perimeter, tearing one officer’s badge from his shirt and biting another, according to a government report.
![Police reroute demonstrators as they try to clear Grant Park during the Democratic National Convention](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1724118735_325_DNC-host-Chicago-haunted-by-1968-convention-rioting-braces-for.jpg)
Police reroute demonstrators as they try to clear Grant Park during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Aug. 28, 1968. (AP Photo)
CHICAGO POLICE SUPERINTENDENT PLEDGES DNC PROTESTS ‘WILL NOT BE 1968’ RIOTS
The 1968 report on the conflict written by Chicago Corporation Counsel Raymond Simon, gives a look into some hard numbers from the ill-fated convention.
The city canceled days off for its 12,000-person police force. Although Chicago’s population has grown by roughly 2 million in the following decades, the police force remains at about 12,000 officers.
![Supporters during the 1968 Democratic National Convention held at the International Amphitheater](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1724118735_215_DNC-host-Chicago-haunted-by-1968-convention-rioting-braces-for.jpg)
A scene from the 1968 Democratic National Convention, held at the International Amphitheater in Chicago, from Aug. 26 to 29, 1968. (NBC/NBC Newswire/NBCUniversal via Getty Images)
Simon claimed protesters had been urged to show up with smoke bombs, fake delegate cards and football helmets, among other “props.”
Over days of protests, Simon estimated that mobs of rioters varied in size from 300 to up to 5,000. Permit applications for planned marches predicted between 150,000 and 200,000 people. The Associated Press reported at the time that only around 10,000 showed up on the day of Humphrey’s nomination – after organizers had promised 100,000.
Organizers this year claim they are expecting tens of thousands of people to show up for marches at Union Park on Monday and Thursday.
![Chicago National Guardsman Michael Sturch is shown after he was hit in the mouth by a demonstrator during protests outside the Democratic National Convention](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1724118735_538_DNC-host-Chicago-haunted-by-1968-convention-rioting-braces-for.jpg)
Chicago National Guardsman Michael Sturch after he was hit in the mouth by a demonstrator during protests outside the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Aug. 28, 1968. (UPI/Bettmann Archive/Getty Images)
CHICAGO WATCHDOG AGENCY WARNS POLICE UNPREPARED FOR PROTESTS AHEAD OF DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION
Simon’s report found 60% of the 641 people arrested in connection with the 1968 chaos came from outside of Illinois. Of the 280 under the age of 21, 208 were students. He blamed much of the conflict on adult “troublemakers” from out of town.
Rioters hurled bricks and other missiles at police, who responded with clubs.
Simon reported that 198 police officers had been injured in clashes, including 54 who had to be treated at the hospital. He wrote that there were also 60 civilians hospitalized.
![A medic assists an injured woman following protest against Vietnam War during the Democratic National Convention](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1724118735_251_DNC-host-Chicago-haunted-by-1968-convention-rioting-braces-for.jpg)
A medic assists an injured woman during a protest against the Vietnam War at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Aug. 28, 1968. (Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
The Associated Press placed the number of civilian injuries at over 300. Chicago police launched internal investigations into complaints of police assaults against 22 reporters.
A separate investigation conducted by Daniel Walker on behalf of the National Commission on the Causes and Prevention of Violence dubbed the clashes a “police riot” and accused minorities of both officers and demonstrators of inciting the violence.
![A CBS reporter is thrown to the ground in a scuffle with security staff on the third day of the 1968 Democratic National Convention](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1724118735_223_DNC-host-Chicago-haunted-by-1968-convention-rioting-braces-for.jpg)
A CBS reporter is thrown to the ground in a scuffle with security staff on the third day of the Democratic National Convention at the International Amphitheatre in Chicago, Aug. 28, 1968. (Pictorial Parade/Archive Photos/Getty Images)
His report included interviews with witnesses who claimed TV news cameramen had been deliberately targeted by police.
He also noted that earlier in the year, Chicago Mayor Richard Daley may have set the tone when he told police to “shoot to kill arsonists and shoot to maim looters” in response to riots after King’s assassination.
![Illinois delegates holding a banner promoting Mayor of Chicago Richard Daley](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1724118735_633_DNC-host-Chicago-haunted-by-1968-convention-rioting-braces-for.jpg)
Illinois delegates honor Chicago Mayor Richard Daley on the convention floor on the final day of the Democratic National Convention, held at the International Amphitheatre, Aug. 29, 1968. (Pictorial Parade/Archive Photos/Getty Images)
Walker placed the civilian injuries in the hundreds, including dozens of non-protesters. Its author dubbed the clashes a “police riot” and found many people injured had not been accused of breaking any laws.
![Democratic presidential candidate Hubert Humphrey and vice-presidential candidate Edmund Muskie](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1724118735_290_DNC-host-Chicago-haunted-by-1968-convention-rioting-braces-for.jpg)
Democratic presidential candidate Hubert Humphrey and vice-presidential candidate Edmund Muskie, with their wives Muriel Humphrey and Jane Muskie, wave to supporters as the Democratic National Convention closes, Chicago, Aug. 29, 1968. (UPI/Bettmann Archive/Getty Images)
![Riot police gathered outside the Democratic National Convention at the International Amphitheatre in Chicago](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1724118736_875_DNC-host-Chicago-haunted-by-1968-convention-rioting-braces-for.jpg)
Riot police gather outside the Democratic National Convention at the International Amphitheatre in Chicago on Aug. 26, 1968. (UPI/Bettmann Archive/Getty Images)
This year’s DNC runs from Aug. 19 to 22.
City officials are urging anyone who sees anything suspicious during the convention to immediately call 911.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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Wisconsin
DNC 2024: Wisconsin makes impact at opening night of DNC
![DNC 2024: Wisconsin makes impact at opening night of DNC DNC 2024: Wisconsin makes impact at opening night of DNC](https://images.foxtv.com/static.fox6now.com/www.fox6now.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1280/720/10P-SAM-DNC-LIVE-VO_00.00.01.10.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Wisconsin makes impact at opening night of DNC
Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez was the first Wisconsinite to take the stage in Chicago on Monday, Aug. 19.
CHICAGO – Wisconsin has 95 Democratic delegates in Chicago for the 2024 National Convention, and they aren’t just there to make noise and hol signs.
Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez was the first Wisconsinite to take the stage in Chicago on Monday, Aug. 19.
She joined a few other party leaders from different states to talk up the impact Vice President Kamala Harris and the Biden administration has had in those states.
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Rodriguez, who worked as a nurse before entering politics, focused her speech on health care. Rodriguez touted Harris and Gov. Tim Walz’s commitment to protecting abortion access.
“Health care isn’t just about drugs and treatment. It’s about freedom,” she said. “The freedom to make your own choices, and the freedom to get the care you need without worrying about the cost. Kamala Harris is fighting for that healthy future.”
She won’t be the only Wisconsin connection to take the DNC stage; Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson is set to speak Wednesday night as well.
Detroit, MI
Detroit-area woman accused of hoarding gets help with clean up
![Detroit-area woman accused of hoarding gets help with clean up Detroit-area woman accused of hoarding gets help with clean up](https://assets2.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2024/08/19/394e0204-cfc0-4c5c-b811-0529a3b038ac/thumbnail/1200x630/9d9b9f4085f853772da172b871625cda/motor-city-dumpster.png?v=fd6e213336f58b575c9e836e95546d26)
CENTERLINE, Mich. (CBS DETROIT) – A Centerline woman who received dozens of complaints about trash piling up on her property is getting help from one company and volunteers.
“Obviously, it didn’t get this way overnight, and it’s not going to get fixed overnight,” said Elizabeth Alexander, the owner of the property that has been at the center of the complaints.
Alexander said she understands why her neighbors aren’t happy and is committed to cleaning up the mess.
“I was out here until two in the morning I was so exhausted, I had to sit down for a while,” Alexander said.
Social media is abuzz about Alexander’s home on Sterling St. in Centerline. There are hundreds of complaints there and the city of Centerline posted they are aware of the concerns and have taken action.
“We have taken the appropriate steps for due process and issued tickets to the homeowner for the collection of the garbage and debris in the yard,” said Dennis Champine, Centerline’s City Manager.
In a tearful apology to her neighbors, Alexander said she was very embarrassed her property got to this point.
“I am so sorry to my neighbors, to my friends and family. I am so sorry; it might not mean much, but it is genuine,” Alexander said.
Alexander said she is determined to get the yard cleaned up but she is in need of some help.
Motor City Dumpster contacted CBS Detroit after hearing about Alexander’s story and decided to donate a 20-yard dumpster to help her clean up the mess.
Moments after Motor City delivered the dumpster, Champine happened to be checking on the property to speak to Alexander and was pleased to hear the company had stepped up to help out.
“Anytime we see companies stepping up to help people out, especially those in these sort of situations, it certainly warms my heart; this is an exceptional donation,” Champine said.
Champine said there is a hearing on Sept. 4 to address the ongoing violations at Alexander’s property, and he remains hopeful the property can be cleaned up before that date.
Alexander was also thankful for Motor City Dumpsters’ generosity. She said volunteers from her church, Harvest Time Outreach Ministries, are also helping with the cleanup.
Milwaukee, WI
VP Kamala Harris Milwaukee visit; campaign rally at Fiserv Forum
![VP Kamala Harris Milwaukee visit; campaign rally at Fiserv Forum VP Kamala Harris Milwaukee visit; campaign rally at Fiserv Forum](https://images.foxtv.com/static.fox6now.com/www.fox6now.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1280/720/5P-SECURITY-TUESDAY-VP-HARRIS-VISIT-PKG_WITIfef4_1_00.00.32.26.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
VP Kamala Harris Milwaukee rally preparations
Although the 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC) is being held in Chicago, Milwaukee will take center stage this week. That is where the Harris-Walz campaign will be holding a rally on Tuesday night, Aug. 20.
MILWAUKEE – Although the 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC) is being held in Chicago, Milwaukee will take center stage this week. That is where the Harris-Walz campaign will be holding a rally on Tuesday night, Aug. 20.
One month after former President Donald Trump was inside Fiserv Forum for the Republican National Convention (RNC), the arena will once again welcome a presidential candidate. On Tuesday, people will be filing into Fiserv Forum to see Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz.
On Monday afternoon, Fiserv Forum crews prepped for the crowds expected to attend the rally. A group of Democrats gathered outside the arena doing their own preparations.
The vice president’s Tuesday night visit will land on the second day of the DNC in Chicago, putting Wisconsin in the spotlight once again.
“Because this is where the action is,” said UW-Milwaukee Professor Emeritus Mordecai Lee.
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Both Harris and Walz are expected to speak at the rally. The campaign has yet to release official times for their speeches.
![](https://images.foxtv.com/static.fox6now.com/www.fox6now.com/content/uploads/2024/08/932/524/5P-SECURITY-TUESDAY-VP-HARRIS-VISIT-PKG_WITIfef4_1_00.00.32.26.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Attendees will be able to watch former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama’s speeches live from Chicago together in the arena following the rally program.
One month ago
Former President Donald Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance, accepted the Republican nomination inside Fiserv Forum in July.
During that event, security was tight. When asked about the vice president’s visit to Milwaukee, a Secret Service spokesperson said the following:
“The U.S. Secret Service works closely with our local law enforcement partners to maintain a robust security posture, while minimizing disruptions to the public.”
“Residents and visitors in or around downtown Milwaukee should expect intermittent road closures and parking restrictions as part of the visit.”
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“The logic of campaigning is you try to maximize contact with those voters who can determine the election,” Lee said. “This is really, in a sense, great because Wisconsinites get more opportunities to see and hear the four candidates.”
![](https://images.foxtv.com/static.fox6now.com/www.fox6now.com/content/uploads/2024/08/932/524/5P-SECURITY-TUESDAY-VP-HARRIS-VISIT-PKG_WITIfef4_1_00.01.21.06.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Register for Harris-Walz event
The doors at Fiserv Forum open at 4 p.m. Tuesday. People can register for the event through the Democratic Party of Wisconsin.
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