REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION

Republicans have chosen Houston to host their 2028 national convention.

A panel of judges has temporarily blocked a new requirement passed by state Republican lawmakers that would cut the Democratic-leaning city of Nashville’s Metropolitan Council in half, from 40 members to 20.

It almost happened in the summer of 2020 — and, once again, Jacksonville could be the site of the Republican National Convention. Local and national leaders are tiptoeing around the topic, but it seems the River City is under consideration as the host of the event in 2028.

Milwaukee moved another step closer to hosting the 2024 Republican National Convention when a site selection committee unanimously recommended the event be held there rather than Nashville.

A Silicon Valley billionaire and advisor to former President Donald Trump is leaving the board of directors of Facebook parent company Meta.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – While the Republican National Convention moved to Jacksonville earlier this summer never happened, the city still spent thousands on planning and preparations. President Donald Trump then canceled the Jacksonville event in late July due to coronavirus cases surging locally and across Florida. The remaining 10% of the money went to overtime to Jacksonville Fire-Rescue and other city employees. AdOn Wednesday, News4Jax learned that the city has been paid in full. Mayor Lenny Curry had said numerous times that Jacksonville would not be on the hook for any costs.

Kristi Noem speaks during the third night of the Republican National Convention on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2020. (Courtesy of the Committee on Arrangements for the 2020 Republican National Committee via AP)SIOUX FALLS, S.D. The Republican governor, a close Trump ally, launched a fundraising campaign soon after the election was called for Biden on Saturday. Ryan, a campaign finance lawyer, pointed out that the governor can give a maximum of $2,800 to Trump’s campaign under federal law. Trump's solicitation, though billed as raising money for his legal fight, notes that half of contributions will go to pay off general election campaign debt.

Workers lay sod on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020, in Washington. The White House South Lawn and its iconic Rose Garden are undergoing extensive re-sodding and other work after last months Republican National Convention turned them into a muddy mess. The Rose Garden repairs come just weeks after the White House completed a major renovation of the garden intended, in part, to improve drainage issues. The day of her speech, Astroturf was placed over the garden lawn because it was deemed a swampy mess. Since the convention, the White House has avoided using the Rose Garden and South Lawn for public events.

In this image from video, Lou Holtz speaks from Orlando, Fla., during the third night of the Republican National Convention on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2020.. (Courtesy of the Committee on Arrangements for the 2020 Republican National Committee via AP)WASHINGTON President Donald Trump said Friday he intends to give the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, to longtime football coach Lou Holtz. Holtz spent 34 years coaching both college and professional football teams and is perhaps best known for an 11-season stint as Notre Dame's head coach. Holtz ended his career at the University of South Carolina, where he was head coach for six seasons from 1999-2004. Holtz was among those who spoke at last weeks Republican National Convention. In his remarks, Holtz called Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden a Catholic in name only. Biden is a practicing Catholic.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Despite the fact that the Republican National Convention moved to Jacksonville earlier this summer never took place here, the city still spent thousands of dollars on planning. Auditors determined that more than $153,602.68 was spent on planning the event -- with 45% that on overtime pay to Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office employees and another 45% to an outside firm hired to help secure federal grants. The remaining 10% of the money went to overtime to Jacksonville Fire-Rescue and other city employees. In late July, President Donal Trump canceled the Jacksonville events due to coronavirus cases surging locally and across Florida. Mayor Lenny Curry stated numerous times that Jacksonville would not be on the hook for any costs.

Experts refute that and new data suggests that the toll is probably significantly higher than the official count. Ernst said she, too, is so skeptical of the official numbers. Of those deaths, 1,125 were reported in Iowa, according to the state website at midday Wednesday. In recent tweets, supporters of QAnon misrepresented CDC figures, stating that the government's health agency had reduced the number of U.S. COVID-19 deaths to just over 9,000. For 6% of the deaths, COVID-19 was the only cause mentioned.

ABC had 2.75 million, CBS had 2.4 million, ION Television had 1.3 million, Univision had 1.2 million Fox had 1.1 million and Telemundo had 1 million. “Republican National Convention” (Thursday), Fox News, 9 million. “Republican National Convention” (Tuesday), Fox News, 7.9 million. “Republican National Convention” (Monday), Fox News, 7 million. “Republican National Convention” (Wednesday), Fox News, 6.9 million.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. A steady stream of boaters lined the St. Johns River on Saturday in a parade to celebrate the Republican National Convention. The boats featured Trump 2020 flags and other banners as they churned up and down the river from the Hart Bridge to the Fuller Warren Bridge and back. The party designated viewing areas along both the Northbank and Southbank, urging spectators to also display American flags and other signage. Both boaters and spectators were encouraged to register their participation on Eventbrite.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. On this edition of This Week in Jacksonville, News4Jax political analyst Rick Mullaney of Jacksonville Universitys Public Policy Institute recap the Republican National Convention with U.S. Sen. Rick Scott. Pastor John Allen Newman and his wife, Omarosa Manigault Newman, talk about where they stand in the upcoming presidential election. And Mullaney returns to discuss the findings of a lucrative offer in the potential sale of JEA.

With the Washington Monument in the background, a crowd on the South Lawn of the White House watches the Republican National Convention as it plays on a screen on the fourth day of the convention, Thursday, Aug. 27, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump speaks from the South Lawn of the White House on the fourth day of the Republican National Convention, Thursday, Aug. 27, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)Your daily look at late-breaking news, upcoming events and the stories that will be talked about today:1. TRUMP LASHES BIDEN ON WHITE HOUSE STAGE The president blasts his Democratic rival as a hapless career politician who will endanger Americans safety as he accepts his partys renomination on a packed and largely maskless South Lawn. SHINZO ABE TO STEP DOWN Japans longest-serving prime minister plans to leave office because of declining health, ending an era marked by strong ties with Trump even as Abes ultra-nationalism riled the Koreas and China. WE ARE NOT EVEN TRYING NOW Under military command, Brazils once effective but recently declining investigation and prosecution of rainforest destruction by ranchers, farmers and miners has come to a virtual halt, AP finds.

The pandemic has fundamentally reshaped this year's presidential election, prompting both parties to ditch their traditional arena-style conventions. Instead, what he mostly got in his social media feeds were posts from left-leaning friends, trolls and memes disparaging Republican convention speakers. In South Carolina, one grassroots Trump backer hosted mask-wearing fellow supporters at a watch party in Aiken County. But other Republicans like Emma Scott, a University of South Carolina junior, opted to keep their distance. Scott chairs the South Carolina Federation of College Republicans, which relied on Zoom calls or group messages to stay connected and discuss this weeks speeches.

Few in the audience wore masks when virtually all leading public health professionals, including the administration's, say face coverings play a big part in slowing virus transmission. Public health officials also expressed concern over a march in Washington on Friday to commemorate the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Wen, the former Baltimore health official, said the White House event gives the public the false impression that precautions are no longer necessary. Tillis campaign tweeted a picture of the first-term senator wearing a mask on the White House lawn on Thursday before Trumps speech. It was very hard to reconcile those images with what is known about prevention and public health, said Dr. Howard Koh, a public health professor at Harvard and a former assistant secretary at the Department of Health and Human Services under President Barack Obama.

Vice President Mike Pence shakes hands after speaking on the third day of the Republican National Convention at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Baltimore, Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

In this image from video, Chen Guancheng speaks from Washington, during the third night of the Republican National Convention on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2020. (Courtesy of the Committee on Arrangements for the 2020 Republican National Committee via AP)A blind Chinese dissident whose escape to the U.S. was facilitated by the Obama administration is calling on other countries to support President Donald Trump in leading a coalition to stop China's aggression.Standing up to fight unfairness is not easy. After six days holed up inside the American embassy in Beijing, he was taken to a nearby hospital. Help my family and me leave safely," Chen said, appealing again for help from U.S. officials. Clinton prevailed on Chinese officials to allow Chen to leave for the U.S., where he lived in New York after his escape.

Vice President Mike Pence shakes hands after speaking on the third day of the Republican National Convention at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Baltimore, Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)Your daily look at late-breaking news, upcoming events and the stories that will be talked about today:1. PENCE DEFENDS LAW ENFORCEMENT But the vice president made no mention of the Black Americans killed by police this year as he addressed Republican convention proceedings that unfolded amid new protests against racial injustice. ITS BACK TO SCHOOL IN EUROPE Despite a spike in coronavirus infections, authorities want to narrow learning gaps between haves and have-nots that deepened during virus lockdowns and to get their parents back to work. FIGHTING FOR WHATS RIGHT NBA players didnt come to Disney solely for a restart, they wanted social reform and the Milwaukee Bucks set off a chain of postponements in the sports world.

Republicans decided the show must go on and, for the most part, television networks followed. The convention is taking place in the shadow of huge stories that are happening right now, CNN's Anderson Cooper said. Networks, after giving extensive coverage to the Democrats last week, are cognizant of being fair to the Republicans. The president has been showing up every night, the president could talk about it. But former Republican Sen. Rick Santorum, also a CNN contributor, said Republicans were there to try and reelect President Trump and that has to continue to remain their focus.

What to watch on the fourth and final night of the Republican National Convention:TRUMPTrump is scheduled to accept his partys renomination in an address from the White House South Lawn. IVANKAThe president will be introduced by his daughter Ivanka Trump, the fourth of his five children to speak during the convention. RUDYDonald Trumps personal attorney Rudy Giuliani is scheduled to help close out the convention. BIDENThe Democrat has laid low this week but he's scheduled to appear at a virtual fundraiser Thursday. ET (a half-hour earlier than the Democratic convention last week) and runs through 11 p.m.

This isnt a party convention, its a Trump convention, said Rory Cooper, a Republican strategist and former congressional staffer who opposes Trump. If Republicans lose the Senate in November, we should look back at this week as a lost opportunity to introduce the country to more GOP congressional candidates. Scalise made no direct reference to the GOP's faint hopes of regaining the House majority in November's elections. Sean Parnell, a GOP challenger for a Democratic-held seat in western Pennsylvania, didnt specifically ask listeners to award Republicans House control. The inattention to the GOP's congressional efforts might have changed Wednesday when Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, delivered prime-time remarks.

First lady Melania Trump arrives to speak to the 2020 Republican National Convention from the Rose Garden of the White House, Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

PORTLAND, Maine A Maine lobster fisher spoke in favor of President Donald Trump's trade policies during the Republican National Convention on Tuesday, earning a rebuke from the state's Democratic party, which faults Trump for hurting the industry. As long as Trump is president, fishing families like mine will have a voice, Joyce said. Maine Democrats said before Joyce's speech on Tuesday that Trump has done more to hurt the lobster fishery than aid it. Trump's trade hostilities with China have taken a valuable market away from the U.S. lobster industry, Maine Democratic Party Chair Kathleen Marra said. Trumps failed trade war with China upended Maines vital lobster industry and turned hardworking lobstermen and women into collateral damage," Marra said.

In this image from video, Abby Johnson speaks from Washington, during the second night of the Republican National Convention on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2020. A candidate who has peddled in racist tropes and bizarre QAnon conspiracy theories. President Donald Trump has long surrounded himself with controversial characters who hold out-of-the-mainstream views. Republican Jewish Coalition executive director Matt Brooks applauded the decision, saying her views clearly disqualify her from addressing the convention." So the fact that, in his head he would be more careful around my brown son than my white son, that doesnt actually make me angry.

First lady Melania Trump arrives to speak to the 2020 Republican National Convention from the Rose Garden of the White House, Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)Your daily look at late-breaking news, upcoming events and the stories that will be talked about today:1. FIRST LADY MAKES HER CASE FOR TRUMP VOTE Saying hes fighting for you, Melania Trump casts her husband as the best hope for America in a Rose Garden address as the president turns to family to boost his reelection chances. COVID-19S UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCE Winter is ending in the Southern Hemisphere and countries like South Africa, Australia, Argentina had a surprise: Their steps against the coronavirus also apparently blocked the flu. ALL A DAUGHTER EVER WANTS IS HER DAD Families of victims of the Christchurch mosque massacre offer moving tributes while the white supremacist who killed them said he wouldnt speak before he is sentenced.

WASHINGTON The Latest on the Republican National Convention (all times local):5:15 p.m.A speaker who had been expected to deliver remarks on the third night of the Republican National Convention has been unexpectedly removed from the program hours before airtime. Also unclear is the status of a speech by former professional football player Jack Brewer. Brewer was charged with insider trading by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission earlier this month. The campaign would not say definitively whether he will speak. Organizers on Tuesday pulled another featured speaker, Angel Mom Mary Ann Mendoza, after she directed her Twitter followers to a series of anti-Semitic, conspiratorial messages hours before her prerecorded segment was set to air.

In this image from video, congressional candidate and former NFL player Burgess Owens speaks from Washington, during the third night of the Republican National Convention on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2020. Owens, a former NFL player and Fox News commentator, handily won the Republican primary by running to the right of his opponents. The political newcomer is trying to reclaim the suburban Salt Lake City district once held by Mia Love, another Black conservative who was the first Black Republican woman elected to the House. But some Republicans are pushing back on QAnon, and the appearance could become a liability in the swing suburban district. One former Republican state lawmaker called on Owens appearance to be pulled from the convention, saying even the appearance of a connection with QAnon should disqualify him.

Stephen Colbert mimicked poking his head out from under a table after playing a clip of Guilfoyle on CBS' Late Show." I'm glad we already have kids, because I think I was sterilized by that.He called Guilfoyle a vengeful banshee who will haunt your dreams.On The Daily Show, Trevor Noah said Guilfoyle's speech was so loud that Canada called the cops. I want to wish a speedy recovery for anyone who watched the convention on headphones, he said. MSNBC's Morning Joe ran portions of her speech side-by-side with Dwight Schrute's classic award acceptance speech in The Office.Somewhere, Kimmel was taking notes. That stands in contrast to Colbert, who is doing the Late Show live for the two weeks of the convention.

Here are key takeaways from the first night of the convention:AN OMNIPRESENT CONVENTION PRESENCETrump. Never one to shy away from the spotlight, Trump showed he will be omnipresent at the convention, appearing every night and sure to dominate the proceedings. To Trump, the answer to nearly any crisis is almost always more Trump. VIRUS IN REMISSION AT RNCThe Republican National Convention is a testament to the campaign Trump wishes he could run. The speaker ranks on opening night featured familiar Trump validators often featured on his favored cable network, Fox News Channel.

In this image from video, Georgia State Rep. Vernon Jones speaks from Washington, during the first night of the Republican National Convention Monday, Aug. 24, 2020. Why is a lifelong Democrat speaking at the Republican National Convention? Polls show a close race in Georgia, where Democrats lean heavily on support from Black voters, adding to the pressure on Trump to peel voters away. Jones first announced his support for Trump this spring and all hell broke loose, he said Monday. Other Georgia Democrats quickly blasted Jones endorsement of Trump.

What to watch at the convention Tuesday:TRUMPTrump appeared frequently during the first day of his partys convention. THE FIRST LADYFirst lady Melania Trump is set to give the marquee address from the Rose Garden. Her speech at the 2016 GOP convention, the night she introduced herself to voters, was well-received but was later found to have included lines that were very close to what former first lady Michelle Obama said in her 2008 speech at the Democratic convention. Two of the presidents children, Eric Trump and Tiffany Trump, are scheduled, along with Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, Iowa Gov. BIDENUnlike Trump, who planned events to counter the Democratic convention, the Biden campaign has not scheduled their candidate to make appearances during the GOP gathering.

Ambassador Nikki Haley speaks during the Republican National Convention from the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, Monday, Aug. 24, 2020. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)Your daily look at late-breaking news, upcoming events and the stories that will be talked about today:1. SCOTTISH LEADER WINNING PRAISE Nicola Sturgeons calm and sober response to the coronavirus pandemic is standing in contrast to the sometimes-chaotic approach of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. WE HAVE NO WAY TO FORCE THEM OUT Beiruts massive explosion has fueled widespread anger at Lebanons ruling elite, whose corruption and negligence many blame for the disaster. LIBERTY UNIVERSITY SAGA PERSISTS The evangelical school said Jerry Falwell Jr., embroiled in a sex scandal, had offered his resignation as president but then reversed course.

WASHINGTON The Latest on the Republican National Convention (all times local):11:15 a.m.Democrats are unloading on Secretary of State Mike Pompeo ahead of his planned address to the Republican National Convention from Jerusalem. An aide to Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden who has worked for the State Department calls Pompeos Tuesday speech flat out disgraceful. Aide Bill Russo says it's an abuse of taxpayer money.Another top Biden deputy, Kate Bedingfield, blasts Pompeo as President Donald Trumps errand boy and says he has a record of repeated and blatant use of his office for overtly political purposes.Secretaries of state regularly travel abroad on behalf of a U.S. administrations agenda, but Pompeos speech to a party convention from foreign soil is an outlier. Russo mocks Pompeos explanation that he will address the GOP convention on personal time. Russo notes that the speech is still part of official travel and that taxpayer money got him there and is paying for his protection and for the the staff on the ground with him. Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and says Pompeos move violates his own policy. Booker referred to Pompeos memos and instructions sent recently to his departments employees.

WASHINGTON A Kentucky teenager known for video of his interaction with a Native American man during dueling demonstrations at the Lincoln Memorial last year is among Tuesday's speakers at the virtual Republican National Convention. Footage of his confrontation with Nathan Phillips, who was participating in a separate demonstration supporting Native American rights, spread widely online. Video of the encounter showed Sandmann and Phillips standing very close to each other, with Sandmann staring, and at times smiling, at Phillips as Phillips sang and played a drum. "The more we talk about the Democrat policies being pushed by Joe Biden and the radical fringe of his party, the better we are. Brayden Harrington, 13, talked about working to overcome his stutter with support from Biden, who had a severe stutter himself as a child.

PATRICIA McCLOSKEY: They want to abolish the suburbs altogether by ending single-family home zoning. President Trump smartly ended this government overreach, but Joe Biden wants to bring it back. videotaped remarks to the remote convention. In 2015, during the Obama administration, a regulation took effect intended to ensure that communities confront racial segregation in housing. The rule did not eliminate zoning for single-family homes in the suburbs. But he does not support requiring municipalities to refrain from building single-family homes as a condition for getting money from HUD the heart of the distorted claims by Trump and the McCloskeys.

Despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, delegates are holding an in-person meeting and roll-call vote in the ballroom of the Charlotte Convention Center before attention turns to prime-time programming. The GOP convention is a crucial moment for Trump, who is trailing in national and battleground state polls and under intense pressure to turn the race around. After the Charlotte kickoff, most of the GOP convention will take place in Washington, D.C., at and around the White House, as well as by video. But first comes the official business" in Charlotte, which the party selected in 2018 to host the convention. They're going to have a hard time garnering attention because weve lived with Trump for so long," Brinkley said.

President Donald Trump points out into the audience after speaking during the first day of the 2020 Republican National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., Monday, Aug. 24, 2020. President Donald Trump complained about spotty coverage of the roll call vote that renominated him as the Republican candidate for president, and some television networks abandoned Trump's informal, 54-minute acceptance speech for aggressive fact-checking. Democrats turned the traditional roll call vote into a well-received television production, with delegates stationed in their home state or territory to proclaim allegiance to Joe Biden. Republicans had 336 delegates a fraction of the normal amount support Trump at the Charlotte Convention Center in North Carolina. Trump specifically complained about CNN and MSNBC, although he also grumbled that Fox News Channel had announcers talking over the vote.

Jeanette Nunez and former Attorney General Pam Bondi are slated to speak Tuesday during the second day of the Republican National Convention. Excited to join President Trump and many of our partys patriots to address the nation on Tuesday night during the Republican National Convention! Nunez, who co-chairs a national Latinos for Trump effort, wrote Sunday on Facebook. Bondi has been a longtime supporter of Trump and worked on his defense team during the impeachment process. FILE - In this Feb. 22, 2018 file photo, Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, speaks to reporters outside the West Wing in Washington. On Monday, Republican Party of Florida Chairman Joe Gruters, a state senator from Sarasota, seconded the formal nomination of Trump to be the GOP candidate.

FILE - In this July 21, 2016, file photo, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump smiles as he addresses delegates during the final day session of the Republican National Convention in Cleveland. North Carolina public health officials told the Republican National Committee the party can have more than 10 people in a room to conduct official convention business while in Charlotte. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)RALEIGH, N.C. North Carolina will ease gathering restrictions for the Republican National Convention in Charlotte this month after a push by the national party for the state to be more accommodating. The RNC has estimated it would have no more than 500 delegates per day at the Charlotte Convention Center and the Westin hotel. The back-and-forth between the state and RNC comes amid a months-long battle between Trump and North Carolina's Democratic governor.

Ill probably do mine live from the White House, Trump said, but he also said it was not locked in. If I use the White House, we save tremendous amounts of money for the government in terms of security, traveling," he said. Biden has been on the convention stage twice as the vice presidential nominee for Barack Obama. Those kinds of effects and approaches could be repeated even without a traditional convention stage in an arena or stadium. Four years later, he walked out to a full outdoor stadium a remarkable scene in the annals of presidential conventions in Denver.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Jacksonville City Council President Tommy Hazouri was released from Mayo Clinic on Tuesday, 10 days after he underwent a successful lung transplant. During Hazouris rehabilitation, City Council Vice President Sam Newby will serve as acting president of the council. The announcement of Hazouris lung transplant came just one day after Hazouri led a City Council meeting regarding the Republican National Convention, which was canceled in Jacksonville. Newby said that shouldnt surprise anyone who knows Hazouri. He put his city over his self so citizens of Jacksonville are lucky to have a leader like president Hazouri.

Roy Cooper, a Democrat, who wouldnt guarantee the state would lift restrictions on large crowds like the scenes inside a presidential convention arena. Ill probably do mine live from the White House, Trump said, but he also said it was not locked in. Biden has been on the convention stage twice as the vice presidential nominee for Barack Obama. Those kinds of effects and approaches could be repeated even without a traditional convention stage in an arena or stadium. Four years later, he walked out to a full outdoor stadium a remarkable scene in the annals of presidential conventions in Denver.

WASHINGTON President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he's considering delivering his Republican convention acceptance speech from the White House in a move that would mark an unprecedented use of public property for partisan political purposes. Well, we're thinking about it, Trump said when the hosts of Fox News Channel's Fox & Friends asked whether he'd deliver a speech accepting his party's presidential nomination from the White House lawn. I think it's a great place, Trump said of the White House during a wide-ranging telephone interview. The Washington Post had reported that Republican officials were considering using the White House South Lawn to stage Trump's acceptance speech. Presidents historically have treated the White House as a politics-free zone, though Trump has shown disregard for many norms and customs of the presidency.

WASHINGTON The vote to renominate President Donald Trump is set to be conducted in private later this month, without members of the press present, a spokeswoman for the Republican National Convention said, citing the coronavirus. While Trump called off the public components of the convention in Florida last month, citing spiking cases of the virus across the country, 336 delegates are scheduled to gather in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Aug. 24 to formally vote to make Trump the GOP standard-bearer once more. If the GOP decision stands, it will be the first party nominating convention in modern history to be closed to reporters. Given the health restrictions and limitations in place within the state of North Carolina, we are planning for the Charlotte activities to be closed press Friday, August 21 Monday, August 24, a convention spokeswoman said. The subset of delegates in Charlotte will be casting proxy votes on behalf of the more than 2,500 official delegates to the convention.

Mayor Curry on RNC: ‘President Trump made the right decision'Published: July 24, 2020, 10:40 pmThe disappointing news settling in for supporters of President Trump and those who were excited about the Republican National Convention happening in Jacksonville.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. President Donald Trump on Thursday scrapped plans for a four-night Republican National Convention celebration in Jacksonville that had been set to draw more than 10,000 people to a pandemic hot spot to mark his renomination. He also pointed to safety, something that resonates with a former Jacksonville sheriff -- Rep. John Rutherford, R-Florida, a member of the RNC Host Committee. You know, Northeast Florida was ready to show their magnificent support for President Trump, but, you know, as hes always done, it puts America first, Rutherford said. Critics of the president and of hosting the convention in Jacksonville are calling the decision overdue. I think the president made a better decision based on public safety, and I obviously always appreciate that, Rutherford said.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Now that the Republican National Convention has been pulled out of Jacksonville, some activists say it gives Mayor Lenny Curry time to focus on removing Confederate monuments from the city. On Friday, a group protested in front of City Hall urging the mayor to focus on a promise to remove the monuments. Its been over a month since the city removed a Confederate monument from Hemming Park. The city said it doesnt know when the Confederate monuments will come down but said that its working on a schedule with the Parks and Recreation Department. News4Jax has also been following the removal of the Confederate monument in St. Augustine.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. The disappointing news was still setting in Friday for supporters of President Trump and anyone who was excited about the Republican National Convention happening in Jacksonville. The president canceled the Jacksonville portion of the event on Thursday, and after his decision, Mayor Lenny Curry addressed the national media, making stops on Fox News, MSNBC and CNN. We were communicating our caseloads and hospitalizations to the president, White House, RNC. President Trump made the right decision yesterday, as we knew he would, in the best interest in the health of the people of Jacksonville, Curry said on Fox. We were hearing the delegates were excited, they wanted to be here, Curry said.

Trump and his advisers feared that going forward with big parties and infomercial programming in Florida would ultimately backfire on the president. Trump said he plans to deliver his nomination acceptance speech in an alternate form still to be determined perhaps online. "Im grateful for him and his leadership, and this was the right way to move forward.Joe Gruters, current chair of the Florida Republican Party and a state senator from Sarasota, called it a selfless move." The Charlotte City Council voted in April to accept a $50 million federal grant for convention security. City Attorney Patrick Baker said the city had spent $14 million prepping for the convention so far but expected Charlotte to get reimbursed through the grant.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. President Trump announced Thursday evening that the Republican National Convention wont be held in Jacksonville, citing a flare up of COVID-19 cases in Florida. A group of 70 pastors wrote a letter to Mayor Lenny Curry, expressing grave concern over the city hosing the event. The moment Trump announced the RNC would be canceled in Jacksonville was a sigh of relief for activists like Michael Sampson with the March on the RNC Coalition. We dont want more folks who want to inflame and divide people in Jacksonville, Sampson said. The week the RNC was planned would have occurred on Ax Handle Saturday, a date that marks a racially motivated attack in 1960 in Jacksonville.

On Friday the full City Council met to talk about what happened. The council president said the city dodged a bullet. And I think it ended up, like I said, a happy ending for Republicans and Democrats and above all the citizens of Jacksonville, said City Council President Tommy Hazouri. Councilman Garrett Dennis said he wants to make sure in the future the city council would have some say in bringing events like the RNC to Jacksonville. Now the focus for the city council is the city budget and the effect that COVID-19 will have on the bottom line.

Despite being told by his staff that planning for the Republican National Convention was going well and they were confident that they could pull it off safely, Trump said pulled the plug on the event. “There’s nothing more crowded than a convention,” Trump said. Trump moved parts of the GOP convention to Jacksonville last month amid a dispute with North Carolina’s Democratic leaders over holding an event indoors with maskless supporters. “My political team came to me and laid out our plans for the convention in Jacksonville, Florida. More than 10,000 people were expected in Jacksonville — already a fraction of the number that would typically attend a nominating convention.

The are concerns about protests because, much like the RNC in Jacksonville, no one knows who will be coming and how many will participate. Its an entirely downscaled convention, said Bill Glauber of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, who has been covering politics for years. They expected a four day political extravaganza, and now the convention is going to be a fraction of the size. While the number of attendees will be much smaller than the number expected in Jacksonville, security there is still a big issue. Jacksonvilles plan for security will be discussed tomorrow during a special City Council meeting at 10 a.m. Friday.

The options are broken down by grade/school level:Elementary schools will open Aug. 20 for face-to-face learning five days per week for all students in grades Pre-K through five. Virtual learning options will still be available for families who decide against the face-to-face method. Middle schools will start in-person learning Aug. 20 for all students in grades sixth through eighth. Those students will be on a staggered schedule three or four days a week, with distance learning through Duval HomeRoom. High schools start face-to-face in-person learning Aug. 20 for all high school students on a staggered schedule two days per week.

Staff members at Mayor Lenny Currys office said they cant discuss the security plan, which is being handled by the Secret Service. However, legislation that will be discussed Friday by Jacksonville City Council shows several zones around the site will activities will take place. An overlay zone that includes the arena and stadium would allow special event vendors to conduct business and alcohol to be consumed. The plan also talks about alcohol sales within the zone, and that current laws will be relaxed and open containers will be allowed. Legislation that will go before City Council lays out some of the rules for signs and what will be allowed in the convention zone.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Many people are worried about the communitys safety with thousands of people expected to descend on the River City for the upcoming Republican National Convention at the end of August. Jacksonvilles City Council plans to hold a workshop tomorrow to try and get answers to those questions. Sheriff Mike Williams said he doesnt have the money, manpower or resources to ensure the citys safety. That prompted City Council President Tommy Hazouri to organize the workshop. I know a number of cities have had that problem.Hazouri said theres too much at stake to not get the plan right.

WASHINGTON President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he has canceled segments of the Republican National Convention scheduled for Florida next month, citing a flare-up of the coronavirus. To have a big convention is not the right time," Trump said of Jacksonville. Trump moved parts of the GOP convention to Florida last month amid a dispute with North Carolinas Democratic leaders over holding an event indoors with maskless supporters. But those plans were steadily scaled back as virus cases spiked in Florida and much of the country over the last month. A small subset of GOP delegates will still gather in Charlotte, North Carolina, to formally renominate Trump on Aug. 24.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Legislation proposed to Jacksonville City Council gives the first glimpse into how the city plans to handle protests during the Republican National Convention and where demonstrators will be allowed to congregate. The overlay zone, to include the arena and stadium, would allow special event vendors to conduct business and alcohol to be consumed. The security zone, where staged protests and marches would be allowed, is off A. Philip Randolph Boulevard north of the sports complex. RELATED: Lawsuit against RNC adds sheriff’s concerns | RNC special sectionCookie, who owns the Avenue Grill on A. Philip Randolph right next to the security zone, said she is not worried about what could happen. The convention to nominate President Donald Trump for a second term is scheduled to held Aug. 24-27.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The lawyers asking a judge to stop or scale back the Republican National Convention are using comments made Monday by Sheriff Mike Williams to bolster their case. The lawyers included a photo from a tweet from State Rep Cord Byrd showing people positing for photos without masks or social distancing as an exhibit. With my friend, fellow warrior and next great congressman from Florida @ByronDonalds to welcome VP @Mike_Pence to Jacksonville! The motion also points to the lag time in getting test results, that can reach five days or longer. A hearing on the lawsuit is scheduled for July 28.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Mayor Lenny Curry said Tuesday he was not surprised that Sheriff Mike Williams warned Monday that the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office is not prepared to provide adequate security for the Republican National Convention. Williams was absent from Tuesdays news conference, and the question was posed to Undersheriff Pat Ivey: How many personnel will be needed to provide adequate security? Im pretty sure they can handle security at an event like the RNC in their city, Trump Campaign Communications Director Tim Murtaugh said on CNN. But your security plan is set. For the security plan to be solid, you allot for those changes.

Now, News4Jax has obtained a memo from the RNC, which was sent to local hotels. It shows where all delegates from the different states will be staying and the areas of Northeast Florida that will be impacted. In all, 44 area hotels -- in locations that include downtown, the beaches, the Southside, Orange Park, St. Augustine and Amelia Island -- will be used. Visit Jacksonville has been working with hotels since it was first announced that the RNC will be coming to the River City. Remember that Visit Jacksonville is always looking out for the safety of the tourists that come to visit our city.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Several Northeast Florida law enforcement agencies are ready to help with security at the Republican National Convention in Jacksonville. Hours after Williams announcement, area law enforcement agencies, including the Putnam County Sheriffs Office, offered to assist. Wells said the Putnam County Sheriffs Office has up to 25 deputies ready to step in, and the deputies are prepared to provide a range of services during the convention. The Clay County Sheriffs Office said it will be providing 40 deputies. The Bradford County Sheriffs Office plans to send six to 10 deputies.

Murtaugh said Jacksonville has a lot of experience with providing security for large-scale events. On Sundays in the fall with the Jacksonville Jaguars, they pack 70,000 people into a football stadium, he said. But your security plan is set. For the security plan to be solid, you allot for those changes. An NFL football game crowd is a lot larger than whats going to be packed into the RNC convention arenas.

We have had no conversations about the need for that type of a presence in our city, said Curry, who noted that Jacksonvilles police quelled violence and vandalism that unfolded briefly during last months unrest. The questions come as Oregon officials have spoken out against the presence and actions of federal agents in Portland. Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum alleged that federal agents arrested people off the street without probable cause. Mayor Ted Wheeler accused federal agents of escalating tensions in Portland, saying he wants them gone. More federal law enforcement, that I can tell you, the president said while taking questions in the Oval Office Monday.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Sheriff Mike Williams said there’s not enough time, money or officers to keep everyone safe during the Republican National Convention planned for Jacksonville in just five weeks. The convention was moved from Charlotte to Jacksonville last month after North Carolina’s governor told the RNC it would have to comply with social distancing rules. UNCUT: Sheriff Williams shares RNC concerns | READ: Update on RNC securityWilliams said Mayor Lenny Curry was aware of his concern. Only 500 were able to go, Bob Gualtieri, president of the association and Pinellas County Sheriff told Politico over the weekend. Baker and Nassau County sheriffs said they will provide assistance if asked.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – On this edition of “This Week in Jacksonville,” News4Jax political analyst and Jacksonville University’s Public Policy Institute Director Rick Mullaney breaks down the revised plan for the Republican National Convention and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the 2020 elections. And Clay County sheriff candidates Mike Taylor and Ben Carroll both talk about their priorities if they’re elected.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The convention to nominate President Donald Trump as the Republican candidate for president is going to happen in Jacksonville next month, but be much smaller than originally planned and take place at both inside and outside venues. “However, adjustments must be made to comply with state and local health guidelines.”Convention planners also acknowledged that some convention events will take place outdoors. It’s not surprising.”In recent days, six Republican U.S. senators have announced they either will not or might not attend the convention. Jacksonville City Council President Tommy Hazouri, who has had many questions about the cost and safety of the convention, did get some answers Wednesday. “Whatever they do, it’s going to directly impact the citizens of Jacksonville and those that will be coming here.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As the Republican National Convention nears, more than 1,000 names of local businesses appeared Thursday night on the RNC’s website, listed as vendors for the convention. The vendors range from national chains to local mom-and-pop shops. Looking through the list of 1,000 vendors, there are 13 different florists, more than 150 restaurants and a threat detection agency. Last week, nearly 80 local vendors showed their products off in an effort to become a “preferred” vendor for the convention. The Republican National Convention will run from Aug. 24-27 in Jacksonville.

Hughes said the amount has not been finalized, but that its projected to be $30-$40 million in federal grant money. Answer: I believe it will include language that considers the citys appropriation of federal grant dollars for public safety. Answer: The budget for the city will be made to match the funding authorized by the US Dept of Justice via federal grant. The amount is not yet finalized, although a projection is approximately $30 to $40 million in federal grant money. Our expectation is the federal grant will be conveyed and used by the city to handle public safety expenses.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. A local doctor says the Duval County school district needs to consider delaying the start of the school year. In it though, Rathore said some serious considerations have to be made, including a postponement of the school year. Its less than a month until Duval County schools are scheduled to reopen, and a lot could change in that time. What else is going on in the community, whether they open it when they open and how they open? This all comes ahead of a special Duval County School Board meeting at 1 p.m. Thursday.

Buddy Carter, R-Georgia, says safety will be the top priority when the Republican National Convention visits Jacksonville in August for President Trumps renomination speech. Carter said the convention is good for both sides of the Florida/Georgia line. Itll be beneficial to us in South Georgia, no question, he said. Hes passionate about health care issues and said hes concerned about the increase in reported COVID-19 cases. The RNC is a short-term, one-time boost, but Carter clearly wants the economy restarted and restored.

The Times cites people familiar with the discussions saying President Trump and Republican officials decided Monday night to move the three nights of the convention to be held in Jacksonville -- including Trumps nomination and acceptance speech -- would be held outdoors. The same sources added that since Trump often shifts his positions, this plan could change. At a news conference Tuesday, Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry would not confirm whether reports of moving the RNC outdoors. He said its too early to make any sort of declaration on what will happen with the RNC. Curry was also asked if Jacksonville was selected as one of three federal surge testing sites for COVID-19 because the RNC was coming to Jacksonville next month.

Greene presented what appeared to be a preview of the district’s school reopening plan during a virtual presentation to the Meninak Club of Jacksonville. Greene said the district will present what she thinks will be the final reopening plan at a workshop on Tuesday, but added the plan is still fluid. DCPS School Reopening Plan (Screenshot via Facebook)“It is not the district that makes that determination, it is the Department of Health,” Greene added. — Lenny Curry (@lennycurry) July 14, 2020For some Duval County school parents, their students won’t be heading back to school next month. Elementary school students will also be asked to wash their hands every hour.

HOUSTON The Texas Supreme Court on Monday upheld Houston's refusal to allow the state Republican convention to hold in-person events in the city due to the coronavirus pandemic. The court dismissed an appeal of a state district judges denial of a temporary restraining order sought by the state Republican Party. The state GOP convention had been scheduled to begin Thursday at Houstons downtown convention center and was expected to draw thousands of participants. The Texas Medical Association withdrew its sponsorship of the state GOP convention and asked organizers to cancel in-person gatherings. But state Republican chair James Dickey has insisted that organizers can hold the event safely.

Plans to host the Republican National Convention in Jacksonville are running into some hurdles politically, legally and logistically. One political issue came up this weekend after a visit by Vice President Mike Pence. We had our temperature taken. He added there was social distancing when the vice president spoke and barriers in place. Reports surfaced late last week that the RNC was contemplating moving from inside VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena to outdoor venues. News4Jax Crime and Safety Expert Ken Jefferson said securing an outdoor event would require much more police officers.

Duval County Public Schools wasnt expected to unveil its revamped back-to-school plan until Tuesday morning, but members of the Meninak Club of Jacksonville got an early look at the new plan on Monday afternoon. Also coming Tuesday, school boards in Clay and St. Johns counties will meet to further discuss school reopening plans. Bishop Kenny High School releases back-to-school plan. (Bill Graham/The Meridian Star via AP)Heres a county-by-county look at the deadlines and where each school district stands on face masks. Joining him is Digital Reporter Travis Gibson (tgibson@wjxt.com), a Jacksonville native and former high school sports reporter who has written about race issues and allegations of abuse on university and high school campuses across the country.

News4Jax asked Duval County GOP Chairman Dean Black about this, and he said Jacksonville will do whatever it has to do to make the convention work. News4Jax asked Black about funds and whether other spaces in the city have been considered. There are 43 days until the RNC and 100 or so days until the election. “We’re saying that we have to wait until we get closer, but how much closer do you want to get? Mullaney said campaigning will look different, and while it’s all about November, he said they’ll have to make some decisions for the RNC soon.

FILE - In this July 21, 2016, file photo Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump smiles as he addresses delegates during the final day session of the Republican National Convention in Cleveland. After a venue change, spiking coronavirus cases and a sharp recession, Trump aides and allies are increasingly questioning whether its worth the trouble, and some are advocating that the convention be scrapped all together. Already the 2020 event has seen a venue change - to more Trump-friendly territory in Jacksonville, Florida, from Charlotte, North Carolina -- and it has been drastically reduced in scope. For technical reasons, the convention will be unable to formally adopt a new party platform. Despite the economic downturn, GOP officials insist they will have the financial resources needed to hold the convention.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. On this edition of This Week in Jacksonville, U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz addresses critics and explains the benefits for Jacksonville hosting the Republican National Convention. St. Johns County School Board Chair Beverly Slough talks about how the county is adjusting to the new guidelines for schools. Clay County Commissioner Mike Cella details the numerous races that county residents will decide this November. And former Atlantic Beach Police Chief Michelle Cook joins the show to talk about her run for Clay County sheriff.

Jacksonville, Fla. – Vice President Mike Pence delivered remarks Saturday evening at an event at Epping Forest in San Jose for the Jacksonville host committee for the Republican National Convention. A spokesperson for the RNC host committee said the vice president was at the event to thank the committee for the work being done to plan the convention, especially on short notice. Duval GOP Chairman Dean Black said the vice president thanked the host committee for the hard work they’re doing, and for what they’re about to do. But the host committee has a handle on it and we’re going to make history right here in Jacksonville,” Black said. RELATED: Meet the Jacksonville Host Committee for the Republican National ConventionFlorida Gov.

Ron DeSantis vowed Thursday that the Republican National Convention next month in Jacksonville will be a safe environment, despite widespread concerns about increasing coronavirus cases across Florida. I think it would be a healthy environment, said DeSantis, who lived in nearby Ponte Vedra Beach before becoming governor. The Republican Party of Florida sent News4Jax a statement disputing that claim that reads:First and foremost, Gov. Despite working around the clock, he made sure that Florida was well positioned to host the Republican National Convention. But were very flexible.Republican leaders last month decided to move key parts of the convention from Charlotte, N.C., to Jacksonville after Trump expressed displeasure that North Carolina Gov.

City Council President Tommy Hazouri has several questions for Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry concerning the Republican National Convention. Among some of the questions, Hazouri asked Curry for a breakdown of the total estimated costs of hosting the RNC, and he asked who will be covering the costs. Hazouri asks if the city will have for front any of the costs, and he wants to know if the city has expended any funds to date to the RNC. Additionally, should the citys mask mandate still be in place, Hazouri wants to know if people attending the RNC will be required to wear masks. Here is a look at the memo from Hazouri:

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Republican officials are exploring the possibility of hosting next months Republican National Convention in one of two outdoor stadiums in downtown Jacksonville, the Washington Post reported Thursday. Two Republicans involved in the planning told The Post that officials are looking at the overall logistics of hosting an outdoor convention. The stadiums being explored are TIAA Bank Field, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and 121 Financial Ballpark, home of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp baseball team. Republican officials recently toured both sites while in Jacksonville, according to The Post. On Monday, a group of more than 70 pastors sent a letter to Mayor Lenny Curry, arguing against bringing the convention to Jacksonville.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Local vendors had a chance Thursday to show their products and lobby to participate in the Republican National Convention coming up in Jacksonville in August. Nearly 80 vendors were selected by the Jacksonville RNC Host Committee to present their products Thursday at the Prime Osborn Convention Center. Im absolutely thrilled to participate in the RNC, said Leslie Cook of Busy Bean Coffee. He was one of the representatives from 77 companies at the Convention Center hoping to be selected as a preferred provider for the upcoming RNC. Members of the host committee rated each vendor and will then make recommendations to those who are planning meetings and events for the RNC.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Several business owners suing the city of Jacksonville and the Republican National Committee said theyre focused on protecting the community. The Republican National Convention coming to Jacksonville in August amid rising COVID-19 cases is setting fire to a national debate about whether its safe to hold a convention during the pandemic. Wednesday, a group of business owners and attorneys filed a lawsuit against the city and the conventions organizers, demanding major changes to keep the public safe. Hes among seven business owners filing suit, demanding changes before President Donald Trump and other top party leaders take the stage. In my opinion, its not political.A spokesperson for the city of Jacksonville said they couldnt comment because this is an active legal case.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. During an interview with Gray Televisions Greta Van Susteren, President Donald Trump was asked about the GOPs decision to move the Republican National Convention to Jacksonville. Van Susteren: Its obviously good to be nominated by your party and in Jacksonville, Florida, but its in Florida. We could do a lot of things but were very flexible.On Monday, a group of more than 70 pastors sent a letter to Mayor Lenny Curry, arguing against bringing the convention to Jacksonville. That letter comes after the mayors office received a letter from nearly 200 physicians, saying the RNC should be postponed. Curry said hospitalizations for the coronavirus are going up but that those patients arent flooding the intensive care units at local hospitals.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Residents and owners living near the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena -- where President Trumps renomination event is scheduled to be held in August -- have filed a lawsuit, asking a judge to declare the Republican National Convention a public nuisance. Defendants mentioned in the suit filed Wednesday included the City of Jacksonville, which is the owner of the arena, ASM Global, which manages and operates the arena, President Donald Trump and his campaign, and the Republican National Committee. The lawsuit states in part that the congregation of thousands in and around the arena in Jacksonville, under the circumstances and practices encouraged and required by the Republican National Committee and its leadership to be a nuisance injurious to the health, welfare and property rights of plaintiffs, in particular, and the health and welfare of the community of Jacksonville.The suit argues that the congregation of people in close proximity inside the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena will constitute a nuisance and result in massive spread of COVID-19 among those attending the event, unless restricted by the court. This is breaking news. Additional details to follow.

Beaches businesses, police prepare for Republican National ConventionPublished: July 7, 2020, 6:51 pmAs the start of the Republican National Convention grows closer, just 47 days away as of Tuesday, Jacksonville is gearing up for a large number of visitors.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Officials with the Republican National Convention will conduct daily coronavirus testing for those attending the event in August. Erin Isaac, the spokeswoman for the host committee of the Jacksonville portion of the convention, said in an emailed memo on Monday that “everyone attending the convention within the perimeter will be tested and temperature checked each day.”Isaac didn’t say how the committee will conduct testing. The exact schedule for the Jacksonville portion of the convention hasn’t been publicized yet, but an earlier itinerary shows President Trump will give his acceptance speech at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena on August 27, the last day of the convention. The Vystar arena can hold 15,000 people, but it’s possible a limit could be placed on the number people allowed inside. Florida set a record on Saturday for the most new coronavirus cases in a single day for any state during the pandemic, with a total of 11,458, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry has been up front about his excitement for the Republican National Convention coming in August, but on Monday his office received another letter arguing against it. A group of more than 70 Black pastors signed the letter. More than a week ago, the mayor’s office received a letter from nearly 200 physicians who signed a letter saying the RNC should be postponed. Pastor Gary Williams spoke with News4Jax about the most recent letter that urges city leaders to “reconsider” hosting the convention. “If I have the flu or if I’m sick, I will not invite someone to my home while I’m sick,” Williams said.

JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. As the start of the Republican National Convention grows closer, just 47 days away as of Tuesday, Jacksonville is gearing up for a large number of visitors. Jacksonville-area beaches leaders are preparing for an influx of people there, as well. Its coming at a vulnerable time when coronavirus cases are spiking in the state and some businesses are closed. Its like a mini Super Bowl, said Sonny Bhikha, who runs the Four Points by Sheraton Jacksonville Beach and three other hotels in the area. The three beaches cities are also planning their response to the RNC together in one unified command team.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. Florida will remain under a state of emergency because of COVID-19 for at least two more months, including during the Republican National Convention in late August in Jacksonville. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday issued a 60-day extension of the state of emergency, which was initially issued March 9 and extended in May. The order authorizes a wide range of actions and directs the Division of Emergency Management to coordinate the states response, while allowing the governor to direct necessary money and supplies.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. A New York Times report gives two reasons that some of the Republican Partys biggest donors are hesitant to dig deep into their wallets to help the Republican National Convention Host Committee bankroll the event. According to the Times report, the majority of delegates are non-committal about even attending the convention. The Republicans expected to fill the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena Downtown and bring big crowds to Jacksonville, giving the city a major economic boost. GOP officials have a different take, according to the New York Times report. The report indicates Republican officials believe a condensed time frame creates anxiety, but say the money ultimately comes through.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. A New York Times report gives two reasons that some of the Republican Partys biggest donors are hesitant to dig deep into their wallets to help the Republican National Convention Host Committee bankroll the event. According to the Times report, the majority of delegates are non-committal about even attending the convention. The Republicans expected to fill the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena Downtown and bring big crowds to Jacksonville, giving the city a major economic boost. GOP officials have a different take, according to the New York Times report. The report indicates Republican officials believe a condensed time frame creates anxiety, but say the money ultimately comes through.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office, Jacksonville Fire And Rescue and other local, state and federal agencies are setting up at the Jacksonville Main Library Downtown during the Republican National Convention in August. The agencies will be using the conference center space over the next few weeks. President Donald Trump is scheduled to accept the Republican nomination the last week of August at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. Vice President Mike Pence during a trip to Florida on Thursday said hes excited about the event coming to Jacksonville. He also said there are sophisticated plans to make sure its a safe and healthy environment.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Daniel Uhlfelder, a Florida lawyer, known for haunting Florida beaches dressed as the Grim Reaper is coming to Jacksonville Beach today. Scythe in hand, Uhlfelder first drew national attention when he scoured beaches in Walton County, Florida in May. He announced his visit to Jacksonville on social media, noting that he would be talking about the RNC. I will be addressing this tomorrow in Jacksonville for Grim Reaper Tour pic.twitter.com/0zOONJHZEm Daniel Uhlfelder (@DWUhlfelderLaw) July 3, 2020News4Jax spoke to Uhlfelder early this morning. The Grim Reaper will appear at the pier on Jacksonville Beach at 11 a.m.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. A board member with Duval County Public Schools said Friday that while leaders are aware of some concern among a group of parents and teachers in the district, its unlikely the start of the 2020-2021 academic year will be postponed. There are a lot of people concerned about the RNC (Republican National Convention) coming and what impact that might have on our community, District 7 board member Lori Hershey said. Hershey said moving the start of the school year would present logistical problems. There are so many options in place for parents if they prefer not to start the school year in the classroom, they have that option, Hershey said. So, think thats part of the reason for currently sticking with that with the date.