Atlanta Mayor Criticizes DNC for Excluding City from 2028 Convention

Atlanta's Democratic Mayor Andre Dickens criticized the Democratic National Committee (DNC) on August 20, 2026, for excluding Atlanta from its shortlist to host the 2028 presidential convention. In a letter, Dickens accused DNC leaders of neglecting Black voters and the Southern region, stating that the party's decision reflects a disregard for the importance of these voters ahead of the upcoming election. The DNC has narrowed its selection to Boston, Denver, and Philadelphia, prompting Dickens to highlight that Atlanta has not hosted a convention in nearly 40 years. He emphasized the need for the party to engage with Southern voters and not take their support for granted. The DNC responded by pointing to its ongoing efforts in the South and the recent decision to place South Carolina first in the 2028 presidential nominating calendar. The DNC is currently reviewing the bids from the three finalist cities, with a final decision expected in the coming months.