Former Republican presidential contender Mitt Romney today touted Democratic President Barack Obama as someone who is key in bringing the 2016 Summer Olympic Games to Chicago.
“If President Obama is actively involved in recruiting IOC (International Olympic Committee) members, particularly from the non-committed nations, that will make a big difference,” said Romney, a former Massachusetts governor who also served as a turnaround expert for Salt Lake City’s 2002 Winter Olympics.
“(Obama) will have particular sway with some nations. In some respects, it’s kind of our turn. Europe’s had summer games again and again, so I’m kind of optimistic about Chicago’s prospects,” Romney said, adding he believed the city would get the nod over its international competitors.
Still, Romney said the value of hosting the Olympics is in demonstrating a city before a world audience, not in whether it makes a profit.“I don’t see the games as a moneymaker. If that’s what you’re looking for, I don’t think that’s going to be the result, typically. It is however about the best service opportunity for the world that you’ve ever experienced. It will bring Chicagoans together in a way like nothing else can. It is a marvelous experience,” he said.
Clout Street @ Chicago Tribune
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