While political conventions are traditionally seen as ways to unify the party after a bitter primary, the 2016 DNC convention is off to a rocky start. A Sputnik correspondent described law enforcement officers arresting three outside of the convention site, while local media reports that 13 have been detained after attempting to breach security gates.
— Sputnik US (@SputnikNewsUS) July 25, 2016
— Sputnik US (@SputnikNewsUS) July 25, 2016
A number of supporters of Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders have erupted in chants of support for their preferred candidate.
Protesters have also been vocal about their opposition to the TPP trade deal.
— Sputnik US (@SputnikNewsUS) July 25, 2016
— Sputnik US (@SputnikNewsUS) July 25, 2016
Officials have removed pro-Sanders signs and reportedly threatened to revoke the credentials of protesters.
— Sputnik US (@SputnikNewsUS) July 25, 2016
— Lisa Rico (@dizzyeyes) July 25, 2016
Tensions are particularly high in light of emails released by WikiLeaks over the weekend, demonstrating the party’s preference for former secretary of state Hillary Clinton.
