FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
CONTACT:
Press@Chicago2024.com
Chicago 2024 Host Committee Announces Highest Convention Raise in History
The Host Committee raised $94 million, more than any political convention ever
Chicago, IL — Today, the Chicago 2024 Host Committee announced it shattered fundraising goals and brought in a record-breaking $94 million for the Democratic National Convention. The total breaks all previously held records for convention fundraising for both Democratic and Republican conventions, demonstrating the historic levels of enthusiasm for the Chicago convention.
“Today’s announcement is a reflection of the unified love for our city, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the broad coalition of partners who came together to ensure Chicago could put its best foot forward at this convention,” said Host Committee Executive Director Christy George. “I am especially thankful for the leadership and unwavering support from Board Chair Michael Sacks, the relentless work of our staff, and for the generosity of locally-based companies, groups, individuals, and friends in labor to bring this massive event across the finish line.”
“There is tremendous excitement for the 2024 Democratic National Convention and this significant milestone is just further proof of that fact” said Senior Director of Partnerships & Donor Relations Joanna Belanger. “This unprecedented raise reflects the power of our united coalition––which has set a new standard for what we can accomplish together.”
“I want to congratulate Christy George, Michael Sacks, Leah Israel, and Joanna Belanger on the most successful fundraising effort in the history of Democratic conventions,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Thanks to their hard work, not only will we nominate Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in style, but we will be able to make investments for years to come that will benefit the best city in the world.”
“Our fundraising success wouldn’t have been possible without Governor Pritzker, Christy and the exceptional team they put together, especially Leah and Joanna,” said Host Committee Board Chairman Michael Sacks. “Their discipline, creativity, and dedication provided the record resources to put on an amazing convention.”
“Chicago has the talent, experience, and expertise to deliver on all of our promises––and the fundraising commitments we made during the bid phase are just one example,” said Founding Partner at Lafayette Advisors Leah Israel. “I am honored to have played a role in delivering this record-breaking moment for the convention team and look forward to welcoming friends and partners to our city in just a few days.”
The Chicago 2024 Host Committee is the not-for-profit, nonpartisan organization responsible for fundraising and civic and community engagement. Individual donors, corporate partners, local businesses, labor unions, and allied organizations all contributed to the fundraising effort. The Host Committee is especially grateful for the support of the official providers powering the convention:
AT&T – Official Connectivity Provider of the 2024 Democratic National Convention
Invenergy – Official Clean Energy Provider of the 2024 Democratic National Convention
United Airlines – Official Airline of the 2024 Democratic National Convention
“As the official airline of the Democratic National Convention, United is honored to engage in this historic, global event in our hometown,” said President of United Airlines Brett Hart. “In anticipation of the occasion, we added more than 100 additional flights to and from Chicago throughout the week and became the first airline to purchase sustainable aviation fuel for use at O’Hare.”
“As the official Clean Energy Provider of the DNC, we are honored to power this historic convention alongside our Clean Energy Alliance partners. With a growing headquarters in Chicago, we know the talent firsthand in this city and it’s no surprise we’re shattering records,” said President and Corporate Business Leader at Invenergy Jim Murphy. “We are excited to help bring together policymakers, business leaders, and community members for important discussions around how to continue accelerating cleaner, more reliable, and affordable energy.”
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