This archive report was first published on 25 June 2020.
On June 24, 2020, the Democratic National Committee announced that the party's presidential nominating convention in Milwaukee would be held almost entirely virtually.
Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee, plans to accept the presidential nomination in person during the 17-20 August convention, but it remains to be seen whether there will be a significant in-person audience.
According to party officials, official business, including the votes to nominate Biden and his yet-to-be-named running mate, will take place virtually, with delegates being asked not to travel to Milwaukee.
This decision marks a significant shift in the way the party conducts its business, with the Covid-19 pandemic having a profound impact on American life and the 2020 presidential election.
As The Guardian noted, this is the first time in U.S. history that the two major parties have abandoned in-person conventions with crowded arenas, even during times of war.
