Tensions are high in Milwaukee today with the opening of the 2024 Republican National Convention, just two days after the assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump, the party’s presidential nominee, at a political rally in Pennsylvania. But plans for the highest level of security were in effect well before the incident, and officials claim no additional measures are necessary.
Security expert Bruce McIndoe of McIndoe Risk Advisory asserts otherwise. "There is no doubt that there has been careful review of the 'highest level of security,' and I would expect some additional measures and protocols have been put into place," he told Northstar today. "In addition, high-profile attendees will likely step up their executive protection support, which can complicate the security situation."
The Department of Homeland Security considers political conventions National Special Security Events, based in part on the event’s significance, size and attendees. Designating an event an NSSE allows it to use significant resources from the federal government, as well as state and local partners, to ensure a robust security plan is in place.
Milwaukee is ready for the RNC
The convention takes place in downtown Milwaukee, confirmed as the host city nearly two years ago, at Fiserv Forum and the Wisconsin Center District, Milwaukee’s convention center campus. Activities are planned for three facilities: the Baird Center, UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena and the Miller High Life Theatre, all of which are conveniently located close to one another.
In preparation for the high-profile event and beyond, the Baird Center, the city's convention center, debuted an expansive, $456 million renovation one month ago. The 673,000-square-foot addition brings the facility's total footprint to 1.3 million square feet, and added such features as a 32,000-square-foot rooftop ballroom with a wraparound outdoor terrace that offers views of the entire district.
Security teams have been working to secure the district and its surroundings for the past several weeks. The U.S. Secret Service shared details in late June, including a map delineating vehicle- and pedestrian-screening perimeters. Intermittent road closures began as early as July 11 to accommodate construction of security measures in and around the site, as detailed in local news reports. Road closures are expected through July 19. An FAQ by Visit Milwaukee has a public security map and comprehensive traffic plan, including parking, flight and maritime restrictions.
Risk implications for high-profile events
Saturday's incident in Pennsylvania with former president Trump is primarily likely to affect events with high-profile speakers or attendees with a similar risk profile, McIndoe explained. As for its bearing on security protocols in Milwaukee, reports about the shooter having had explosives in his vehicle could have an impact. "Security teams will likely step up monitoring for explosives and keep bomb-sniffing canines engaged," he noted.
Of course the incident in Pennsylvania only underscores the fact that a thorough risk assessment should be conducted for any large event, said McIndoe. "Careful consideration is needed in evaluating the people attending, speakers and even vendors on the exhibit floor that may draw activists or threats."
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