The scene this atypical Monday morning is a deviation from the norm in Arrow Park, a renowned Water Street location that switches between an ice rink during the chilling Lake Michigan winter months and a favoured picnic area during the height of summer. Today, it has temporarily morphed into the vibrant core of the American right to demonstrate.
Signs, slogans, and symbols of all sorts abound, but a theme emerges. A palpable objection to the Republican nominee, Donald Trump, resonates deeply among the crowd, especially as the GOP gears up for a convention. A convention that’s unfolding against the jarring backdrop of an earlier assassination attempt.
The scandalous events of Saturday night, where a 20-year-old Pennsylvanian almost assassinated a former president, have shaken the nation. Yet, it hasn’t shifted the viewpoint of these protestors.
Rallying amongst the masses is Tony Srok, a native of Milwaukee, wielding a sign reading: “Lock Him Up”.
“He must be imprisoned because his deeds match deeds labelled as crimes in legal codes,” he clarifies.
Meanwhile, the hosting of the convention in a largely Democratic bastion spearheads mixed feelings amongst the local residents. Proud of its straightforward nature, Milwaukee, akin to several other industrial giants of the 20th century in the Midwest, also holds the marks of globalisation within its transformed old factories. However, the four-yearly Republican event brings with it potential economic boost and a rare spotlight on the national stage.
Srok asserts, “Their presence here doesn’t bother me. They have the right to free speech and the right to hold their events here. I’m unsure about any benefits for the city, but I’m pleased it’s taking place here as it gives me an opportunity to make my opinions heard. I’m aware that the city is spending funds and businesses are profiting, but a little expense in the name of democracy is acceptable.
“Milwaukee remains fairly balanced,” he adds. “The property market is steady- we all make an honest living and mind our affairs and this has cushioned us against the major global issues – for the most part.”
Close by, Kelly Shannon can be seen displaying a placard that could be mistaken for a local art contest submission. A native of the wider Milwaukee area like many others, she reflects on her mixed emotions following Saturday night’s shooting incident.
“My initial feelings were a blend of astonishment and disbelief. However, I wasn’t terrified, which was perplexing. Not that I was anticipating it, but with Trump, the unprecedented always happens.
His actions – pumping his fist and encouraging ‘fight, fight’ while a man was on a rooftop and crowds were gathering – was beyond peculiar. It was tragic that a life was lost and innocent individuals were injured. All of it was incredibly odd.”
She has made the choice to follow through with her initial plan of protesting, deeply worried about the direction the United States Supreme Court has been headed in recent years.
“I am participating in these protests because I want to persuade people to vote against Trump. I am here to remind them of the nefarious actions he continues to commit,” she says. “Allowing him to gain power and implement these actions is a grave danger, not just for our nation, but also for the world at large.”
Duane Schwingel is seen enjoying a morning cigarette while zooming on his hover scooter. Famously clad in an Uncle Sam outfit, his regular presence at Trump rallies has led to the former president recognising him.
“He knows me. We’re friends,” the Florida native says. He wasn’t present at the Butler rally on Saturday night, but a dark look crosses his face upon the topic’s mention.
“I refuse to believe that there was a solitary actor. There’s not much more I can say on it yet, but the truth will emerge. I’ve attended more than 50 rallies. They have never allowed someone to gain such a position on a roof. It’s truly bizarre. I don’t have the answers, but we will get them eventually.
The events of January 6th were also suspicious, and we discovered it involved federal authorities. I don’t believe this was a random local youngster who managed to get on that roof.”
He insists that everyone supports Trump now, “Even those who won’t publicly admit it. In fact, over a hundred Democratic friends have told me when they’re behind the voting curtain, they’re backing Trump.”