Why are there so many empty seats at the DNC?

 

The Democratic National Convention began Monday night at Chicago's United Center, but it was marred by controversy. The sight of numerous empty seats in the arena drew significant criticism from conservatives on social media.

Images of the half-empty venue—designed to accommodate 23,500—quickly circulated online. One user on X wrote, "Look at all the empty seats at the DNC. The Democrat Party is over! RIP." Conservative YouTuber Blaire White remarked that there were "more people outside protesting the DNC than inside," adding, "This is not the turnout of a party that can win."

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So what really led to the empty seats? The issue was more about logistical problems than a lack of enthusiasm.

The Wall Street Journal reports that pro-Palestine protests near the convention site disrupted transportation, causing delays for buses carrying delegates. At least 20 buses were stuck half a mile from the United Center due to clashes between protesters and police, resulting in many attendees arriving late.

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The convention, which was set to begin at 6:15 p.m. ET, experienced a delay of over 20 minutes as organizers worked to get everyone seated. As the evening progressed, the arena gradually filled with delegates excited to hear from President Joe Biden and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.