The Republican National Committee (RNC) appears to be bringing parts of the Republican National Convention to Jacksonville.
The Washington Post reported that parts of the GOP convention, currently scheduled to be held in Charlotte from August 24 through August 27, will be headed to the First Coast even while much of the convention’s business will be held in North Carolina.
Gov. Roy Cooper, D-NC, has said he cannot guarantee large rallies could be held in Charlotte due to the coronavirus pandemic. Since then, the RNC has looked at other sites to host much of the convention including Savannah, Georgia. However, several of the meetings could still be held in Charlotte since Jacksonville is a quick flight and a six hour drive away on the interstates.
Last week, Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry took to Twitter, saying he welcomed the convention and showcasing the economic impact it could have on the First Coast.
“We welcome the opportunity to host the GOP convention in Jacksonville,” Curry posted on Twitter. “A $100 million local impact event would be important for our city as an event/convention destination.The city is ready for world class events and ready show the world we are open for business.”
President Donald Trump is set to be renominated at the GOP convention. Both Florida and North Carolina are expected to be battleground states in November.
