First Lady, Not President, Will Present Chicago’s Olympic Case

http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/09/11/first-lady-not-president-will-present-chicagos-olympic-case/?nl=us&emc=politicsemailema4


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Mr. Obama informed the International Olympic Committee on Friday that he needs to focus on the effort to pass health care legislation and would be unable to attend the Oct. 2nd meeting in Copenhagen, according to a statement released by the White House. He said he would continue to support Chicago’s bid along with the first lady and Valerie Jarrett, one of his senior advisors, who will accompany Mrs. Obama to Denmark next month.

The president’s decision to stay home comes despite pressure from some political allies, including Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley. Officials are keenly aware that Mr. Obama might be criticized for devoting time to such a venture at a moment of great national challenges, particularly if the Chicago bid fails.

Still, the White House clearly wanted to send a high-power emissary.

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and I am a much too serious and important person to even think about them" crowd.

Rio put on a great presentation at SportAccord and considering that there has never been an Olympics in South America many think it's their turn.

Obama should not be out there lobbying for Chicago, Illinois when he is president of ALL the states (well except maybe South Carolina).