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For cities, hosting political conventions can come with costs as well as revenue

Jul 17, 2024
Milwaukee's visitors bureau estimates the Republican National Convention is bringing $200 million to the city. But that doesn't include business lost due to the crowds.
Based on what other cities have reported after hosting the Republican National Convention, Milwaukee stands to see a $200 million boost to economic activity — at least when adding up the positives.
Alex Wroblewski/AFP via Getty Images

For political parties, virtual conventions have their pros and cons

Aug 24, 2020
It's harder to convey enthusiasm, but easier to ensure consistent messaging.
Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, wave to supporters via video conference on the fourth night of the Democratic National Convention in Wilmington, Delaware.
Win McNamee/Getty Images

The billion-dollar RNC question: What is Peter Thiel doing there?

Jul 21, 2016
Peter Thiel is an odd pairing with Donald Trump — but maybe less odd than it seems.
Peter Thiel participates in a panel discussion at the New York Times 2015 DealBook Conference.
Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for New York Times

Inside and outside the fence

Locals in Cleveland wonder who the convention is really for?
The four-day Republican National Convention kicks off Monday, with an estimated 50,000 people expected to attend.
Jeff Swensen/Getty Images