GOP convention could come to Democrat-friendly Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, July 15, (AP): Charlotte, North Carolina, a Democrat-dominated city whose transgender-friendly bathroom ordinance triggered a statewide political war, is a front-runner to host the 2020 Republican Convention where President Donald Trump seeks an anointing to run for a second term. Charlotte’s mayor says that would be just fine. But some local Democratic officials say: Not so fast.

The City Council has scheduled a special meeting Monday to decide whether to accept a yetto-be-extended offer from the GOP. Published reports suggest Charlotte is favored to land the convention.

In a column for The Charlotte Observer, Mayor Vi Lyles said while the nation is at “a tipping point of incivility,” the city can show its inclusiveness and demonstrate values of respect while honoring differences. Lyles, elected last fall, is the city’s first black female mayor.

Councilwoman LaWana Mayfield, however, said her constituents have expressed concerns based on “the language that comes out of this administration.” Opponents have cited Trump’s statements denigrating minorities, Muslims, women and the LGBTQ population.

Fellow council member Braxton Winston said in a video that Charlotte should slow down and discuss whether it should pursue the convention. On his Facebook page, Winston said bringing the convention to Charlotte should be more than an economic decision.