Atlanta Competes for 2028 Democratic Convention as Political Week Marked by Loss
DNC Chairman Ken Martin toured Atlanta as one of five cities vying for the 2028 Democratic Convention during a week marked by Congressman David Scott’s death.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA — Democratic National Committee Chairman Ken Martin visited Atlanta Thursday as the city continues its bid to host the 2028 Democratic National Convention. This week also saw the death of longtime Congressman David Scott and ongoing wildfire battles in south Georgia.
Atlanta is one of five finalists competing to host the convention where Democrats will officially nominate their 2028 presidential candidate. The city faces competition from Boston, Chicago, Denver, and Philadelphia for the high-profile political event.
“While we are here to tour and discuss the various logistical and administrative requirements for hosting the Democratic National Convention, we also seek a city that shares our values and will be a true partner with us as we plan this event,” Martin said during brief remarks to reporters Thursday at the Hotel Phoenix in the Centennial Yards area of downtown Atlanta.
Convention Selection Process
The DNC chair emphasized the evaluation process for potential host cities. “The process of selecting our convention host city is a serious and deliberative one. We have five great cities bidding for this opportunity, and we look forward to continuing the conversation with each of them as we select a host for our 2028 and potentially for our 2032 convention,” Martin added.
If selected, Atlanta would host the Democratic National Convention for the first time in 40 years. The city’s previous bid for the 2024 convention was unsuccessful, with Chicago ultimately chosen as the host.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Charlie Bailey, who chairs the Democratic Party of Georgia, are leading the city’s campaign to secure the convention. The Hotel Phoenix, where Martin spoke, is located in the Centennial Yards area that has been the focus of recent downtown revitalization efforts.
Political Developments Amid Tragedy
The convention bid discussions occurred during a challenging week for Georgia politics. The death of Congressman David Scott has prompted preparations for another special election to fill his seat. Scott’s passing has led political rivals to suspend campaign activities as the community mourns the longtime representative.
Meanwhile, firefighters continue battling massive wildfires across south Georgia, where severe drought conditions have created dangerous fire conditions throughout the region. The fires have added to the week’s significant news developments affecting the state.
The convention selection process comes as Georgia Democrats work to position the state as a key player in national Democratic politics. The 2028 convention would provide significant economic benefits to the host city while showcasing Atlanta on the national political stage.
