What would a political convention be without a little greasing of the wheels to boost local business?

Until two weeks prior to the Democratic National Convention, Uber was illegal in Philadelphia, but the ride-sharing company cut a special deal with the city and Democratic National Committee. Activists were not happy with the move and protested on the first night of the convention.

Truthdig columnist Sonali Kolhatkar caught up with Rebecca Hammell of the Fair Ride Philly Coalition to discuss how Uber became legal in Philadelphia and why.

“The Philadelphia Parking Authority went behind closed doors with Uber and made a backroom deal, a secret backroom deal,” explained Hammell. “The deal itself wasn’t secret. The contents of the deal are secret. They basically agreed to not take any enforcement steps against Uber from now until Sept. 30.”

Watch the whole interview:

See all of Kolhatkar’s video series for Truthdig and Free Speech TV from the Democratic National Convention here.

—Posted by Eric Ortiz

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#2016 election#democratic national convention#democratic party#philadelphia#technology#uber#video