DNC eyes Chicago strike
Just when Chicago might have had an edge in the competitive race to host the Democratic National Convention in 2024, there’s a strike.
What’s the beef: Restaurant workers at the United Center walked off the job Sunday and a strike has been planned for the Big Ten men's basketball tournament that starts today.
Dems are watching: There’s some concern that a walkout could prompt other unions to join in solidarity. And that has Democrats watching closely, hoping the disagreements are sewn up before President Joe Biden picks a convention site, possibly in the next few weeks. A person familiar with the selection process said Democrats expect both sides to come to an agreement long before the 2024 convention were to come to town. But they’re paying attention nonetheless.
At issue: The 650 shift workers have been negotiating a union contract with Levy Restaurants, the main food service provider at the arena, over concerns about health insurance and complaints of labor law violations.
In a statement Tuesday night, Levy said, "We are planning for food and beverage service at the Big Ten Tournament to continue as normal. In the event of a strike, menus will be adjusted to focus on fan favorites and top-selling items." NBC 5 has more on the dispute here.
Losing out on the Democratic convention would be a big loss for Chicago — and the United Center, which is already making plans for a huge build-out of the arena in anticipation of the 2024 event.
https://www.politico.com/newsletters/illinois-playbook/2023/03/08/chicago-strike-has-dnc-watching-00086042
