The Democratic National Convention, which occurs August 19th through 22nd, is shaping up to be more of a pressure cooker than a political convention, with VP Kamala Harris set to face the heat from tens of thousands of her party’s less savory elements. The city of Chicago has seemingly thrown open the doors for pro-Palestinian protests for their “March on the DNC” while putting the pro-Israel camp’s solidarity march on hold – a move that’s raising more than a few eyebrows.

Pro-Palestinian protesters get the red carpet, pro-Israel voices get the silent treatment.

Despite the IAC (Israeli American Council) applying for permits well in advance, Chicago’s bureaucracy has yet to cough up an answer. Meanwhile, the city has given the green light to a coalition of pro-Palestinian groups, essentially rolling out the red carpet for what promises to be a contentious gathering.

Pro-Israel groups are growing increasingly frustrated, with IAC’s Aya Schechter noting to the Jewish Insider, the unbalanced treatment and the city’s sluggish response. It’s hard not to wonder if the delay is an intentional snub, especially given the growing influence of anti-Israel rhetoric within the Democratic Party. Even Van Jones, a staple of liberal media, admitted that anti-Semitism has become “marbled” into the party – a fact that the DNC might have to reckon with sooner rather than later.

Kamala won’t pick a side.

Flip-flopping Kamala hasn’t decided which side she supports yet. She doesn’t want to tick off either side so she’ been pro and anti-Israel and pro and anti-Palestinian in her comments.

How much violence will be breaking out in Chicago?

As tensions build, Jewish groups in Chicago are also voicing concerns about safety, with fears that the DNC could be a flashpoint for violence. While pro-Palestinian leaders insist they’re planning peaceful demonstrations, the past year’s surge in antisemitic incidents has everyone on edge.

Other crap the protesters are fighting for:

The “March on the DC” group won’t just be at the convention to fight against Israel and for the Palestinians. Yes, their main demand is to end aid to Israel but they have other things to fight for. Their list includes: Money for Jobs, School, Healthcare, Housing, and Environment, Not for War!; Immigrant Rights and Legalization for All!; Defend LGBTQIA+ & Reproductive Rights!; Defend the right to unionize and strike!; Stop police crimes! Community control of the police now!; and…Justice, Peace, and Equality.

So, as the Democratic Party gathers in the Windy City, expect more than just wind: expect a storm. Whether Harris and the DNC can weather it remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure – this convention is shaping up to be a showdown between the party’s more radical factions and those still holding on to some semblance of sanity.