Chicago Misses Out on Hosting 2028 Democratic National Convention

The Democratic National Committee announced that Chicago will not host the 2028 Democratic National Convention. This decision was a disappointment for Gov. JB Pritzker and many Chicagoans who hoped for a repeat at the United Center.

The committee narrowed its options to Boston, Denver, and Philadelphia. Chicago, the 2024 host, was eliminated along with Atlanta. This decision came shortly after it was announced that Illinois wouldn’t hold the earliest Democratic primaries in 2028.

For Pritzker, holding the convention and early primaries could have been beneficial if he decides to run for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination. He has supported the party significantly, contributing $5.6 million for the 2024 convention and $1.25 million for the 2016 convention in Philadelphia.

Although it may have been surprising that Chicago was among the final contenders for the 2028 DNC, few cities fit well due to strong union roots and adequate hotel accommodations. A spokesperson from Pritzker’s campaign did not comment immediately on the decision.

Democratic National Convention leaders visited the United Center for consideration in May 2026. However, there was no immediate response from the national committee on why these cities were chosen as finalists. In a social media post, DNC Chair Ken Martin noted the strong bids and looked forward to a final selection.

Despite the setback, there’s still hope for Chicago in 2032 as the local committee has bid for the event. Emily Soong of the Chicago 2028 Bid Committee expressed pride in past conventions and commitment to supporting the selected host city.

No active fundraising for the 2028 convention was underway, but the leftover funds from 2024 were available. During the DNC’s visit in May, Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson celebrated the 2024 convention success, optimistic about a repeat performance. President Donald Trump’s administration presents challenges, having targeted Chicago politically and enacted Operation Midway Blitz.

Mayor Johnson expressed gratitude for DNC’s consideration and stated that Chicago remains a strong contender for the 2032 convention. Ald. Walter “Red” Burnett shared that although the area surrounding the United Center is scheduled for redevelopment, he sees Chicago’s non-selection as non-concerning.

A historical lens shows Chicago has hosted multiple Democratic conventions, including notable ones in 1940, 1944, 1952, 1956, 1892, and 1896. Mayor Lori Lightfoot and other local leaders indicated support for future conventions.