Reaction pours in on DNC's decision to have Milwaukee host 2020 national convention

"I'm glad Milwaukee will enjoy the economic boost from hosting the 2020 Democrat National Convention. As voters in a key battleground state, Wisconsinites will also get a first-hand look at Democrats' extreme policies that would reverse the economic progress made under the Trump administration. Understanding the risk of Democrat socialistic tendencies should provide motivation to re-elect Republicans up and down the ballot in November 2020."

"If we’re going to take back the White House, restore the guard rails of our democracy, and make government work for American families, we need to earn it. We need to fight alongside our brothers and sisters in labor to build a brighter future together, and empower the diversity of our party and country. This choice is a statement of our values, and I'm thrilled Milwaukee will host the 2020 Democratic National Convention. The Democratic Party is the party of working people, and Milwaukee is a city of working people. We saw in this last election what we can accomplish when we come together, invest, and fight for working people, and that was proven right here in Wisconsin. I want to thank the leaders in Houston and Miami for all their hard work throughout this process. They both put forward competitive proposals that I’m sure will lead them to hosting future conventions."

"We couldn’t be more thrilled that the DNC has chosen Milwaukee to host its 2020 convention. From the lakeshore to its bustling city streets, Milwaukee is a vibrant working-class city that represents so much of what makes our nation great. We’re honored to have the opportunity to share our great city with the nation, and we can’t wait to welcome Democrats next July.

“This will be a once-in-a-lifetime economic opportunity for Milwaukee and its citizens. With the collaboration of Milwaukee’s corporate community, the nonprofit sector, the small business community, and engaged Milwaukeeans, we are confident Milwaukee 2020 will be a world-class event that makes Wisconsinites proud. The work starts today!"

"We’re thrilled that the 2020 Democratic National Convention will be held at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. This selection is the result of an incredible collective effort to progress Milwaukee’s revitalization and status as a premier global destination. The state-of-the-art venue will offer best-in-class hospitality, technology and accessibility for the thousands of visitors coming to our city, making for a seamless experience throughout the entire event. We thank the Democratic National Committee for recognizing that Fiserv Forum and Milwaukee will provide the ideal setting for the Democratic National Convention.”

“I truly appreciate all the work that’s gone into bringing 2020’s Democratic National Convention to our city.  It goes without saying, this is a game changer.  As a lifelong member of the greater Milwaukee community I’m more than familiar with both the challenges and opportunities our city embodies.”

“With today’s announcement that the DNC will take place in Milwaukee, we’ve been given a chance to share our history, our strengths, and our vision for a better future.”

“This is a great day for Wisconsin. Our largest city hosting a convention of this magnitude is a game changer for our state. From tourism, to the positive economic impact on local businesses, this decision will have far reaching effects for the region and the state as a whole.

“For Wisconsin to succeed, we need Milwaukee to thrive. Hosting the DNC puts our largest city on the international stage. I look forward to showing the nation what an amazing city Milwaukee is and all that has to offer.”

“Congratulations and a massive THANK YOU to Mayor Barrett, U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore, Alex Lasry, executive vice president of the Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele, U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, Gov. Tony Evers and Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes – for their work and advocacy in landing the 2020 DNC in Milwaukee.”

“The Democratic National Committee made a great call by picking Milwaukee as the destination for its 2020 Convention. It has the infrastructure, room supply, event space and work ethic to deliver an exceptional experience. Moreover, it is gratifying they see what we have long known: that Milwaukee is an amazing place to live, visit and work. We look forward to welcoming delegates, candidates, dignitaries, and other citizens of our great country to experience all that Milwaukee has to offer, including our sparkling lakefront, vibrant arts and culture scene, incredible restaurants, easy accessibility, and most importantly, the warmth and friendliness that envelops our city. Our three Milwaukee hotels, The Pfister, Hilton Milwaukee, and the new Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel will be prepared to roll out the welcome mat and show our guests the very best of Milwaukee,” said Greg Marcus, president and chief executive officer The Marcus Corporation.

"We are deeply disappointed that the DNC will not bring its 2020 national convention to Houston. Our bid brought together people from both major political parties, and from no particular party, to show that our welcoming city represents the demographic future of America -- and has unmatched experience with putting on mega-events. As Houston has proven many times with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the Astros World Series Championship parade, the Super Bowl and the Final Four, the nation’s most diverse and fourth most-populous city is an effective host to the world, relying on great people from the private, non-profit, institutional and government sectors to unite and say ‘howdy’ in more than 100 languages.

"As the late President George H.W. Bush wrote to me in June in support of our bid, ‘Our facilities and hotels are world-class, but it’s really our people – the spirit of our fellow Houstonians – that makes the key difference. No one works harder; no one is friendlier or more welcoming.’ We wish the DNC convention planners well and look forward to using our facilities for other highly successful activities in July 2020."

"As a city with such an incredible national and international reach that we are called the Gateway to the Americas, Miami possesses the logistical and infrastructural amenities for attracting significant events. It's a missed opportunity for our national that we won't be able to roll out the red carpet this summer for the DNC attendees in our unique way that no other city can top."

“Thank you to DNC Chairman Tom Perez for selecting Milwaukee as the host for the 2020 Democratic National Convention. Our appreciation also to committee chairman Alex Lasry of the Milwaukee Bucks, and the host of local leaders who helped make the case to the DNC, including Mayor Tom Barrett, County Executive Chris Abele, Senator Tammy Baldwin, Governor Tony Evers, Lt. Governor Mandela Barnes, Congresswoman Gwen Moore, Congressman Mark Pocan, and so many others. Milwaukee is on the move, and our success in building the future represents the best of America. Organized labor in Milwaukee, and throughout Wisconsin, are committed to making the Convention here a great success.”