Chicago Loses Bid for 2028 Democratic National Convention

The Democratic National Convention has decided against returning to Chicago in 2028, thwarting aspirations for a repeat at the United Center since the Michael Jordan-era Bulls. This represents a setback for Gov. JB Pritzker during an election year. On Thursday, the Democratic National Committee announced that Boston, Denver, and Philadelphia are the remaining contenders to host the convention, scheduled from August 7-10, 2028. Atlanta and Chicago, the host city for the 2024 event, were removed from the list.

This decision comes shortly after Illinois was excluded from hosting the earliest Democratic presidential primaries in 2028. The Illinois Democratic Party, under Pritzker’s leadership and substantial funding, had advocated for earlier primaries. Pritzker, seeking his third term in the upcoming November election, aimed for Chicago’s convention bid to bolster potential plans for a 2028 presidential nomination. Pritzker, along with his wife, contributed $5.6 million—representing nearly 6% of the $97 million raised for the 2024 local host committee. He has historically supported the party financially, donating $1.25 million to the 2016 DNC in Philadelphia.

Though some were surprised that Chicago reached the final consideration phase, the selection of host cities is limited. Few cities meet the requirements of having strong union presence and the necessary accommodations for attendees. Pritzker’s campaign did not comment immediately on this outcome.

The Democratic National Convention leadership visited the United Center in May 2026, evaluating it for the 2028 event. A spokesperson for the national committee did not provide immediate feedback on the selection criteria. Social media posts by DNC Chair Ken Martin acknowledged the strengths of all bids but did not specify why the final cities were chosen. Martin expressed enthusiasm for working with the finalists in the following selection phases.

Emily Soong, from the Chicago 2028 Bid Committee, expressed pride in Chicago’s previous hosting success. She emphasized the committee’s dedication to supporting the next convention, regardless of location.

The local host committee, funded by surplus from 2024 efforts, had not yet initiated new fundraising for a 2028 bid. During the 2024 convention, Democratic leaders, including Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson, highlighted the event’s success despite political challenges.

Given historical overlaps, Chicago could host again in 2032, as expressed by Mayor Johnson. Despite Chicago’s loss this time, Alderman Walter “Red” Burnett remained unfazed by the decision and anticipates a shift in focus to local redevelopment projects.

Chicago has a long history of hosting major political conventions. Notably, it was the site where President Franklin Roosevelt secured his third and fourth nominations in the 1940s, and former Governor Adlai Stevenson was nominated in the 1950s. Political conventions have long been part of the city’s historical fabric, underscoring its capacity as a compelling host.

Reflecting on Chicago’s past as a host city, Pritzker, speaking from the observation deck of 875 North Michigan Avenue, expressed hope for future opportunities to welcome the Democratic National Convention back to his city.