City News
Republican National Committee quietly meets in Austin for big 2020 decision
The Republican National Committee quietly convened in Austin on July 18 to begin planning for the 2020 Republican National Convention. Members of the RNC are hosting closed-door sessions inside the Fairmont Austin to decide details about the event, including the host city for the next convention — the site of Donald Trump's likely renomination for president.
It's unclear why Republicans chose Austin in the middle of summer to host their meeting, and a rep for the Fairmont said they "are not able to comment on or confirm whether a particular individual or group is a guest within our hotel."
Host cities for 2020 have been narrowed down to Charlotte, North Carolina, and Las Vegas, though it's been a contentious battle. On July 16, the Charlotte City Council faced protestors and heard from more than 100 citizens speaking out against the event, mostly in regards to safety concerns. The Charlotte City Council narrowly approved the measure 6-5, with four Democrats joining two Republicans in the decision.
It's been a less contentious conversation in Las Vegas, where city leaders have been more welcoming to the RNC, according to The Hill, though the Washington paper goes on to report the administration is privately supporting Charlotte as its top choice.
According to Spectrum News Charlotte reporter Kirstin Garriss, the committee already made its recommendation on July 18, but all eyes will be on Austin when the official vote and announcement occur on July 20.
