CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Republican leaders gathered in uptown Charlotte Thursday morning to announce major plans for next year's convention in the Queen City.
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Channel 9 political reporter Joe Bruno was there and learned just how massive an undertaking putting on this type of event will be.
RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel unveiled the logo for the 2020 convention at the Spectrum Center, where the convention will take place next summer. It features the GOP elephant and Charlotte's crown.
"The convention logo reflects both the energy of this vibrant city and traditions of the Republican Party," McDaniel said. "We look forward to working with the wonderful people of the Queen City to host a historic convention that will propel President Trump to a second term."
McDaniel also said the convention will be a great opportunity to shine a light on Charlotte.
Notably absent from Thursday's announcement were members of the Charlotte City Council and Mayor Vi Lyles.
A spokesperson said Lyles was invited but did not attend because she is on vacation.
GOP leaders praised Lyles for her help and leadership in landing the big event for Charlotte.
In addition to unveiling the logo, the RNC kicked off recruitment efforts for volunteers. It is seeking 8,000 volunteers to be ambassadors for the city.
John Lassiter, the head of the host committee, said this is an opportunity for Charlotte to market itself to the world.
"Together, we will show off Charlotte, North Carolina, South Carolina, our people, our passion, our amenities and, more important, our business environment," he said.
The unveiling comes a week after the Charlotte City Council discussed in closed session the feasibility of withdrawing from hosting the 2020 convention.
The city attorney told council members it's essentially too late to back out.
Site selection Chair Ron Kaufman said he isn't concerned.
"It is understandable. This is a very politically charged time," he said.
Kaufman also said the fact that Charlotte will now be the host to two major party conventions shows the city is world-class.
"This city is probably no longer a stepchild to Atlanta but is leaping above Atlanta," Kaufman said.
Larry Shaheen, with the Mecklenburg County Young Republicans, agrees.
"It is always an opportunity for the people to find work, get work and promote their business on the national stage," Shaheen said.
According to Kaufman, the RNC is ahead of where it was in 2012 and 2016 in terms of fundraising. He predicts the convention will leave the city with surplus.
The 2020 Republican National Convention will be held Aug. 24-27.
50,000 people are expected to attend along with 15,000 credentialed members of the media.
Anyone interested in working as a volunteer for the RNC can sign up here.