The two or three (or what sometimes seems like 100) security fences and checkpoints surrounding the Xcel Energy Center tend to buffer convention-goers from contact with the hundreds of protesters in the streets of the Twin Cities.

On Monday, though, members of the Alabama delegation got an unwelcome surprise through the window of their shuttle bus.

About 300 people were arrested during demonstrations in St. Paul on Monday.

Arkansas delegates passed a few nonviolent protesters on the way to the convention site.

Inside the hall, the atmosphere was almost somber as delegates convened for official business only. Aside from a convention floor loaded with delegates, hardly anyone else was in the building. Seats reserved for press were mostly empty and the upper tier of the building looked vacant.

It was almost as if, aside from delegates, others were enjoying an extended weekend.

Oh. Wait. They were. Monday was Labor Day.

Perhaps activity in the hall will pick up and violence outside the hall will die down on the convention’s second day.

Tags: Arkansas delegates, protesters, Security

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