Pro-Palestinian demonstrators planning large protests in Chicago during next week’s Democratic National Convention have faced a legal setback. A federal judge ruled against their request for a larger protest route that would take them closer to the United Center arena, the site of the convention. The judge, Andrea Wood, stated that the city-provided route, which includes two public parks and a 1.1-mile parade route outside the United Center’s security zone, complies with the First Amendment while addressing security concerns.
Demonstrators, arguing for a larger route to accommodate expected crowds, claimed that the city’s route underestimated their “rage, tenacity, and steadfast commitment” to Palestinian lives. They also condemned the Biden-Harris administration’s support for Israel in its ongoing war with Hamas in Gaza, stating that the protests will “condemn the horrifying scenes that have come out of Gaza.”
This setback echoes similar court challenges faced by protesters ahead of last month’s Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. While those protests had a limited impact, Democratic officials are hoping to avoid a repeat of the chaotic 1968 convention in Chicago, marred by violence and tear gas. Despite potential protests, the Democratic Party is largely unified behind Vice President Kamala Harris, the party’s nominee, who has seen a surge in fundraising and support since replacing President Biden on the ticket.
The convention will feature key Democratic leaders, including President Biden, former Presidents Obama and Clinton, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. While Democrats are divided on the U.S. response to the Israel-Hamas conflict, political pundits say comparisons to the 1968 chaos are not warranted. The party is expected to be largely unified and energized, despite the expected demonstrations outside the convention’s security zone.
Harris has enjoyed a significant fundraising boost since becoming the nominee, with her July haul more than double Trump’s. She has also seen a surge in support following the nomination of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. Harris and Walz have been actively campaigning, drawing large crowds at rallies in key battleground states. Despite their official nominations, the convention will include ceremonial roll calls, and both Harris and Walz will deliver nationally televised speeches next week.
