RNC 2020 BID: City, state leaders work to recover after mixed response to RNC 2020 bid

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — There’s growing concern that the City of Charlotte suddenly does not appear unified behind its 2020 Republican National Convention bid.

All of this is unfolding with Republican leadership about to select the winning host city next week.

The list is down to two cities -- Charlotte and Las Vegas.

Nevada GOP Chairman Michael McDonald said Las Vegas is ready to host if called upon.

“It's the greatest city in the world,” McDonald said. “The entertainment capital of the world. You can get every type of experience you want here."

On Friday, Democrat City Councilman Justin Harlow tweeted that he “would not support the bid” for the Republican convention.

He joins Council member LaWana Mayfield in opposition.

A third member of council, Braxton Winston, has expressed concerns but no firm stance yet about the bid.

Many Democrats on the council, including the mayor, want the convention.

Republican Councilman Tariq Bokhari acknowledged on Monday that efforts to solidify the bid were underway behind the scenes.

“I wouldn’t say damage control. I’d say there’s a little bit of 11th-hour chaos,” Bokhari told Channel 9’s Paul Boyd on Monday.

Bokhari said the timing of vocal opposition is not optimal but he views this is an opportunity to convince residents of the benefits.

“Not just for economic impact to our community, but I think it to be a project that can bring us together,” Bokhari said.

Channel 9 was told internal meetings this week will work through the concerns being raised including protecting city taxpayers from cost overruns and ensuring free speech and public safety are prioritized.

We have also learned phone calls are being made to the RNC site selection committee members this week to put their minds at ease after recent headlines.

If Charlotte wins, City Council would be asked to formally accept with its own vote. Bokhari believes there are enough votes to pass, but he’s not taking a win for granted.

Ray McKinnon is a leader within Charlotte’s Democratic party. He’s been working the phones lately trying to convince city leaders to drop Charlotte’s bid to host the RNC because of its current leadership.

“My problem is with President Trump. His values are inconsistent with what we say are our values,” McKinnon said.

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