Tensions are rising as the Secret Service refuses to move the “free speech zone” further from the Finserv Forum, the venue for the upcoming Republican Convention in Milwaukee. During a meeting between Republican officials and the Secret Service, a Milwaukee police captain expressed concerns that Republican convention attendees might “terrorize Milwaukee citizens” and “harass minorities.”

Hmmm…3-mile walk from"free screech zone" to the Dems site, and a quarter mile to the Repubs site.

THM News: Secret Service Won't Budge in Moving Security Zone Farther From GOP Convention in Milwaukee https://t.co/8e6J9169KD

— Maggie Shelby (@maggieshelby) May 11, 2024

Nick DeSiato, chief of staff for Milwaukee’s City Hall, stated that “the captain’s comment reflected feedback from some of our community members.” The Republicans in the room took offense at these comments.

GOP escalates fight with Secret Service over convention protestershttps://t.co/cYex6IySro

— Derek Bryant (@DerekJohnBryant) May 11, 2024

After several unsuccessful attempts to persuade the Secret Service to change its stance, the Republican officials grew bitter. One official suggested that all media should go through a checkpoint near where the protesters will be gathered to ensure they witness any potential clashes.

Jeff Fleming, a spokesman for Milwaukee, said the city “expects a well-behaved group of protesters from a variety of viewpoints.” However, some suspect that efforts to disrupt the GOP convention in Milwaukee might be considered regrettable by the Secret Service, the Milwaukee police, and civic leaders but roughing up a few Republicans could be seen as justified.

Republicans are considering hiring their own security personnel in response to the situation.