Mainstreet Daily News
One city’s loss is another’s gain.
On Thursday, the Republican National Committee announced it selected Jacksonville to host its 2020 convention after Charlotte, North Carolina could not successfully negotiate with the RNC on coronavirus restrictions.
In a statement Thursday evening, RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel said:
“We are thrilled to celebrate this momentous occasion in the great city of Jacksonville. Not only does Florida hold a special place in President Trump’s heart as his home state, but it is crucial in the path to victory in 2020. We look forward to bringing this great celebration and economic boon to the Sunshine State in just a few short months.”
The move comes after the RNC was unable to deal with North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, who was reluctant to ease COVID-19 restrictions. The convention is slated for the week of August 24th in which President Donald Trump will accept the Republican presidential nomination at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena.
Because of contractual obligations, much of the convention business will remain in Charlotte.
Jacksonville, which has a population of about 1.5 million, is one of the largest cities in the nation to be led by a Republican mayor, Lenny Curry. However, Curry is anxious and confident to host the event.
“Jacksonville, I know what you’re thinking. Are we big enough, bold enough to host the RNC?” Curry said in a video statement. “What city would take on the Republican National Convention with just 75 days to pull it off? Probably not many, but Jacksonville isn’t just any city. Here in the River City, we do things big and bold, and we’ll be ready.”
Officials had also considered Nashville, Las Vegas, Orlando and Savannah, Georgia.
According to early estimates, the 2020 RNC Convention could generate over $100 million in revenues for Jacksonville and the northeast Florida region.