As tensions continue to rise over Israel’s war in Gaza, Democrats are facing a nightmare scenario: the possibility of protesters disrupting their convention this summer in Chicago. The specter of chaos and clashes with police harkens back to the infamous 1968 Democratic National Convention in the same city, where violence between antiwar protesters and law enforcement overshadowed the event.
The potential for protests over the Israel-Hamas conflict to disrupt the convention poses a challenge for Democrats, especially as Republicans seize on any hint of disorder to paint President Biden as unable to maintain control. Images of demonstrations on college campuses and at campaign events have already been weaponized by conservative outlets to portray a country on the brink of chaos.
While conventions today are more tightly controlled than in 1968, the legacy of that tumultuous event still looms large over the Democratic Party. The violence and infighting of the ’68 convention, coupled with the antiwar movement’s divisive tactics, left a lasting impression on the American public.
The fear for Democrats is that history could repeat itself, with a chaotic scene reminiscent of 1968 playing out at this year’s convention. Protesters have already disrupted campaign events for Biden and other Democrats, raising concerns about potential disruptions in Chicago.
As both parties navigate the specter of protests and civil unrest, the question remains: can Democrats avoid a repeat of the chaos of 1968, or will history once again shape the outcome of a pivotal moment in American politics?
