Milwaukee, Wisconsin – The Republican National Committee is urging the Secret Service Director to intervene in relocating a planned protest zone further away from the upcoming party convention in Milwaukee. GOP officials are concerned that the current location could lead to potential clashes between delegates and protesters. The call for action comes as the party prepares for its convention scheduled for July 15-18 at the Fiserv Forum.
In a letter to Secret Service Director Kim Cheatle, RNC counsel Todd Steggerda emphasized the urgency of addressing the security issue surrounding the convention. The RNC is pressing for changes to the security perimeter to ensure the safety of convention attendees and minimize the risk of confrontations with protesters. These demands have escalated as the event draws nearer.
The Secret Service, however, has expressed confidence in the existing security plan being developed for the convention. Spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi stated that the agency is working closely with federal, state, and local partners to create a secure environment for the event. Guglielmi stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity of the security plan to safeguard all participants.
Concerns about security have been heightened following recent incidents, including a man setting himself on fire outside former President Donald Trump’s trial and a suspicious package being sent to the national committee. GOP officials are particularly wary of potential risks posed by the proximity of protesters to convention attendees at the current designated protest zone.
To address the security concerns, Steggerda proposed expanding the security perimeter to include Pere Marquette Park and designating Zeidler Union Square as the new protest zone. This proposed adjustment aims to mitigate risks while still allowing for peaceful demonstrations near the convention site. Milwaukee officials are being called upon to consider these proposed changes to enhance security measures for the event.
The ongoing discussions between RNC and Secret Service officials underscore the importance of ensuring a safe environment for all participants at the upcoming convention. The collaborative efforts between various stakeholders reflect a commitment to addressing security challenges and maintaining order during the high-profile event. As preparations continue for the convention, the focus remains on striking a balance between security concerns and the right to peaceful assembly.