In preparation for the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee, Governor Tony Evers has declared a state of emergency. 

This declaration is a standard procedure for large-scale events and is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of the convention and its attendees. The governor’s office emphasized that this does not indicate any issues or lack of preparedness but is a proactive step to facilitate the coordination of out-of-state assistance for security purposes, according to Fox6 Milwaukee.

The declaration allows for the mobilization of additional law enforcement resources from both within and beyond state borders. It also grants all law enforcement officers present in the state from July 13 to 19 the power of arrest, as long as they have arrest powers and use of force training from their home jurisdictions. However, the order explicitly states that these powers should not be used to impede peaceful protests or obstruct media covering such demonstrations.

Photo: Milwaukee declares a state of emergency before hosting the 2024 Republican National Convention. 

The U.S. Secret Service will lead the convention’s security efforts, securing the main sites, while the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) will coordinate local law enforcement with assistance from thousands of additional officers. The Wisconsin National Guard may also be called upon to assist with emergency response and security, but with clear instructions not to restrict protestor rights or obstruct journalistic coverage.

Similar emergency orders have been issued for past political conventions, including the 2016 RNC in Cleveland. The declaration is part of the comprehensive logistical preparations required for an event of this magnitude, ensuring the safety of attendees and residents.