The Republican National Committee has tapped a North Carolina physician with expertise in risk management to advise the party’s quadrennial presidential nominating convention in Charlotte that is scheduled for late August.
RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel has said the Republican Party is committed to holding a traditional, arena-style convention to renominate President Trump despite concerns about the public health risks caused by the coronavirus. With that in mind, the RNC on Thursday announced the hiring of Jeffrey W. Runge as senior adviser for health and safety planning to guide GOP officials as they plan a convention that could take place in the middle of a pandemic.
“We’ve said from the start that we are committed to hosting a safe and successful 2020 Republican National Convention in Charlotte,” said Marcia Lee Kelly, president and CEO of the convention, in a statement. “Dr. Runge’s background and expertise will be instrumental as we continue to map out our plans that ensure the health and safety of all convention participants and the Charlotte community.”
According to a press release issued by the Republican committee in charge of the convention, Runge consults for the public and private sector on health and safety risk management, medical preparedness and response, operational planning, and biodefense and transportation safety. His resume includes experience in clinical research and medical administration. He has done stints working for the federal departments of transportation and homeland security.
The Republican convention, set for Aug. 24-27, is being held in the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, which for normal events has a capacity of 20,200 people.
In an interview with the Washington Examiner in April, McDaniel said party bylaws require RNC delegates to meet in-person to hold the vote to renominate Trump for the November ballot. The chairwoman expressed confidence the convention would occur as previously planned, although she conceded logistical adjustments were possible to account for the coronavirus.
“A virtual convention is not on the table for us. So, no matter what, we will be having a physical convention — or a physical nominating process,” McDaniel said. “We are full steam ahead.”
Uncertainty surrounding the spread of the coronavirus forced the Democratic National Committee to move its Milwaukee convention from mid-July to late August. Former Vice President Joe Biden is the presumptive Democratic nominee.
