SURPRISE: @KamalaHarris hit the stage to open up the first night of the Democratic National Convention. pic.twitter.com/8fC8WNobxN
— The Democrats (@TheDemocrats) August 20, 2024
Protesters breached a fence outside the United Center in Chicago on Monday during demonstrations coinciding with the Democratic National Convention. Crews were seen adding additional fencing where the breach occurred, installing a second line of barriers behind the original fencing. Video footage captured sections of snap-together iron fencing being taken down and dragged away by some protesters.
We’re kicking off the first night of the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Tune in now. https://t.co/kcwWzCLtuL
— The Democrats (@TheDemocrats) August 19, 2024
The breach happened as thousands marched from Union Park to demand action on issues like the Israel-Hamas War, poverty, and reproductive rights. The majority of the protest remained peaceful despite the tensions. Chicago police quickly responded to the breach, donning riot gear and rushing to the scene.
Secret Service officials briefly paused delegate buses heading to the convention venue.
Fence breached amid Democratic convention
Superintendent Larry Snelling supported his officers on the ground.
Democracy prevailed in 2020. Over the last four years, we proved that democracy delivers. And with @KamalaHarris and @Tim_Walz, democracy will be preserved.
Tune in as I speak at the first day of the Democratic National Convention.
https://t.co/hFqRNpYKZw— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) August 19, 2024
“There were people who exercised their First Amendment rights, did not commit any crimes, and marched away from here,” Superintendent Snelling said, emphasizing that the actions of a few should not be associated with the entire march. At least four people were arrested during the incident. After repairing the fence, additional police riot teams cleared the adjacent Park 578 of protesters.
The superintendent later deescalated a standoff with peaceful protesters from the Poor People’s Army, who had intended to march to the United Center gates but were diverted by police. Chicago police are reassessing their security plans following the breach and will provide an update at a media briefing on Tuesday morning. The incident occurred on the first day of the Democratic National Convention, where key speakers included President Biden and Vice President Harris.
Security remains a top priority as the event continues.
