Democrats and journos at the DNC are thrilled with the CNN Politico Grill
CHICAGO —
As a seasoned political junkie who’s attended more than a few conventions, I must say, the CNN Politico Grill at this year’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago has been the highlight of my convention experience! The free food and drinks, combined with the opportunity to rub elbows with some of the biggest names in politics and media, is simply unbeatable.
At the Democratic National Convention, some participants could just as easily adopt the slogan, “Fire it up, friends!” (This is a playful rephrasing of former President Trump’s catchphrase, “Carnage, baby, carnage.”)
Every day during the convention, between 4 pm and 2 am, prominent figures in politics and media have been eagerly waiting their turn to enter the CNN Politico Grill, a street-side restaurant and bar complex near the United Center. This exclusive venue offers complimentary food and drinks, and obtaining an invitation can be quite challenging.
As a longtime political enthusiast and observer, I’ve witnessed the evolution of political conventions over the years. In 2004, when I was just starting my career as a journalist, I remember CNN renting out a diner near New York’s Madison Square Garden for the GOP convention. It was an innovative move that set a precedent for future conventions and showcased CNN’s commitment to providing unique, immersive coverage of political events. That experience left a lasting impression on me, as I saw firsthand how the media could bring politics closer to the people and make it more accessible and engaging. Today, as CNN partners with Politico on their site, I look forward to seeing what innovative approaches they’ll take in covering this year’s party conventions and continuing the tradition of bringing politics to life for viewers like me.
Over time, the popularity of the temporary restaurant has significantly increased. In fact, CNN received an overwhelming 4,000 applications for a chance to dine at the Grill during the Democratic convention. Out of these, only around 400 were successful, as stated by David Leavy, the COO of CNN Worldwide.
“Over 20 years, it’s built up into a brand,” Leavy said.
Leavy stated that they intend to strengthen the news organization’s connections with leading political campaign figures, decision-makers, and influential media platforms.
“No one is allowed to bring their assistant in,” he said.
Prominent figures like Wolf Blitzer, Anderson Cooper, and Sara Sidner from CNN, along with notable personalities such as Norah O’Donnell (CBS News anchor), her fellow Washington correspondent Robert Costa, and Chuck Todd (NBC) have all appeared on the scene, as well.
Celebrities like Tim Daly, Sophia Bush, and Wendell Pierce, along with numerous Democratic senators and governors, have made appearances too, all sharing a common political interest.
Absolutely, both print and digital reporters flock to the event and often linger until closing time. And just a quick note, admission is complimentary!
As a devoted follower, I find myself immersed amidst the vibrant settings where CNN airs its evening shows, and Politico captures their podcasts on-site.
The offerings at the Grill draw from the local cuisine of the convention city.
“We really try to bring the city’s culture and vibe to the Grill to make it authentic,” Leavy said.
In Milwaukee, where the Republicans recently held their gathering, the offerings included Bratwursts and regional cheeses.
Fans of the popular show “The Bear,” set in the Windy City, may find that the culinary standards are significantly elevated in the food-focused city of Chicago.
At The Grill, they’ve taken care to be ready for any occasion. A waitress revealed to The Times that the chef handling the Italian beef sandwiches is a graduate from Portillo’s, a famous Chicago restaurant chain known for contributing to the expanding waistlines in the city.
“Vienna Beef hot dogs are the preferred choice of CNN Chairman Mark Thompson, a popular food item in the city.” This version maintains the original meaning while using simpler and more conversational language.
Additionally, well-known local brands offered here include Jay’s Potato Chips, Homer’s Ice Cream, Big Shoulders Coffee, and Garrett Popcorn. Notably, the pizza comes from the thin-crust experts at Phil Stefani Signature Restaurants.
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2024-08-23 00:31