As the Democratic National Convention (DNC) commences in Chicago, several downtown businesses have taken precautionary measures by boarding up their storefronts amidst concerns of protests and potential unrest. Business owners cite past experiences of looting and vandalism, prompting them to proactively secure their properties.
The convention, scheduled from Monday through Thursday at the United Center and McCormick Place, is expected to draw around 50,000 attendees, including delegates, guests, and journalists. More than half a dozen protests are anticipated throughout the week, with Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker confirming that approximately 150 National Guard members are on standby in case of escalating situations.
