SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Democrats from across the country will head to Chicago for the 2024 Democratic National Convention in less than a month. Heightened security plans are already taking shape in direct response to the attempted assassination of former president Donald Trump.

Secret Service agents told reporters in Chicago Thursday that their agency is working diligently to investigate the attempted assassination. Agents said the Secret Service remains dedicated to transparency and is working to get more answers. They stressed that this type of incident must never happen again.

"The Secret Service has also been working closely with our counterparts in the Department of Homeland Security and at the White House since the incident on July 13 in Butler, Pennsylvania," said Deputy Special Agent in Charge Derek Mayer. "We have reviewed the security plan for the DNC and remain confident our plan allows us to adjust for any possible scenario."

Gov. JB Pritzker said the eyes of the world will be on the great city of Chicago. The Democrat explained safety and security will remain top priorities for convention participants and Chicago residents.

Pritzker DNC

Gov. JB Pritzker spoke during a Secret Service briefing about DNC security on July 25, 2024.

"It will be absolutely vital for our collective safety and security, for the minimal disruption to residents' daily lives and for the smooth flow of the convention that we keep the public informed and vigilant," Pritzker said.

While all eyes will be on Vice President Kamala Harris and her yet-to-be-named running mate, Chicago police are also preparing to respond to protests. CPD Chief Larry Snelling said all of his officers have been trained on first and fourth amendment rights.

"It is important to understand that our job is to uphold the constitution, and that is exactly what we're going to do," Snelling said. "What we will not tolerate is vandalism to our city. What we will not tolerate is violent activity. If we see that, we will put an end to it quickly." 

The Democratic National Convention will take place at the United Center and McCormick Place from August 19-22. WAND News will have full coverage on air and online. 

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