Republicans are scaling back the size of the Republican National Convention taking place next month in Jacksonville, Fla. due to surges in coronavirus cases.

Ronna McDaniel, the chairwoman of the Republican National Committee (RNC), made the announcement Thursday in the form of a letter, warning members that there will be a limit on attendance.

“I want to make clear that we still intend to host a fantastic convention celebration in Jacksonville,” McDaniel wrote. “We can gather and put on a top-notch event that celebrates the incredible accomplishments of President Trump’s administration and his re-nomination for a second term — while also doing so in a safe and responsible manner.”

McDaniel said attendance will be limited to regular delegates during the first three days, which will bring in about 2,500 people. On the final day - the same day President Donald Trump is expected to deliver and formally accept his nomination for the party - she said delegates may bring a guest, and other delegates are also welcome, with a maximum amount of 6,000 to 7,000 people.

The convention was supposed to take place in Charlotte, North Carolina, but Trump and the GOP changed locations after Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper argued that the events must be dialed back. 

McDaniel said that there will be a mixture of indoor and outdoor events at locations such as VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, TIAA Bank Field, Daily’s Place Amphitheater and 121 Financial Ballpark.

 “We had hoped to be able to plan a traditional convention celebration to which we are all accustomed. However, adjustments must be made to comply with state and local health guidelines,” she wrote.

McDaniel said the committee plans to add various coronavirus protocols, including daily tests, personal protective equipment and hand sanitizer. 

The four-day celebration will take place in Jacksonville, but business activities will happen in Charlotte.

McDaniel’s announcement comes as the number of confirmed cases in Florida surpasses 300,000, with nearly 5,000 deaths. The Sunshine State remains in the top five for the highest number of cases in the US. With the spike in cases, Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis reversed orders that allowed businesses to reopen. 

Despite Florida becoming the new hub for the virus and at least five Republican senators announcing they won’t be there, the “celebration” will still convene.

Rachel Bucchino is a reporter at the National Interest. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, U.S. News & World Report and The Hill.

Image: Reuters.