GOP Debate Goes Without Incident In Milwaukee As RNC Nears

MILWAUKEE, WI — The first Republican presidential primary debate went without incident in Milwaukee on Wednesday, police said. The event likely gave a glimpse into what the larger Republican National Convention could look like next year.

The Fiserv Forum, where the debate took place, was surrounded by police, with numerous streets shut down and swarmed with political tour buses as demonstrations mounted nearby. One large demonstration, organized by the Coalition to March Against The RNC 2024, assembled at Red Arrow Park shortly before marching to the debate's venue.

Related: Photos: Protests Take To Milwaukee Streets During First GOP Debate

On Monday, the department expressed gratitude to the community after the event went on without incident.

"A number of protests occurred during the event, and we are grateful for all those who organized and participated in these protests and ensured they occurred peacefully, without causing harm to our City or others," said police in a news release. "MPD respects the rights of anyone who wishes to express their opinion. We serve all residents and visitors of Milwaukee. We are better together."

Police noted that they made one arrest amid the debate for disorderly conduct.

Businesses and local politicians in Milwaukee are looking ahead at the RNC as a possible benefit to the city and sales, as WTMJ points out. A vendor fair for the convention was held ahead of Wednesday's debate, giving a look at the many business opportunities that will arise with the RNC, the WTMJ report noted.

"I’ve got a vision to grow Milwaukee and large, global events like the RNC help to shine a light on our city," said a tweet by Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson on Aug. 9. "The RNC will lead to other large scale political, sports, entertainment, and business events choosing Milwaukee which in turn, supports local jobs and our economy."