Chicago 2016 Chairman and CEO Patrick G. Ryan said upon being informed that U.S. President Barack Obama will be in Copenhagen to support Chicago 2016’s bid “there is no greater expression of the support our bid enjoys, from the highest levels of government and throughout our country, than to have President Obama join us in Copenhagen for the pinnacle moment in our bid. We are honoured that President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama will be with us to extend a hand of friendship on behalf of our nation and the city of Chicago as we seek to welcome the world for the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games”.
The city’s Mayor Richard M. Daley said, “President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama symbolize the hope, opportunity and inspiration that makes Chicago great, and we are honoured to have two of our city’s most accomplished residents leading our delegation in Copenhagen. Who better to share with members of the International Olympic Committee the commitment and enthusiasm Chicago has for the Olympic and Paralympic Movement than the President and First Lady”.
Other senior government officials in the Chicago 2016 delegation include White House Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and Illinois Governor Pat Quinn.
