Obama Boosts Chicago's Olympic Bid

Chicago gave Barack Obama major support in his election bid and today the president-elect returned the favor to his hometown. He appeared in a video address pitching Chicago's bid for the 2016 summer Olympics. Chicago is up against Rio de Janeiro, Tokyo and Madrid.

The speech, introduced by Mayor Richard M. Daley Jr., was played during the general assembly of the European Olympic Committee in Istanbul.

"In the coming years, my administration will bring a fresh perspective on America's role and responsibilities around the world," Mr. Obama said. "But if we are to truly meet our shared challenges, we must all work together. By uniting the world in a peaceful celebration of human achievement, the Olympic Games reminds us that this is possible." ...

"I deeply believe in the Olympic movement and have long supported hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games in my home city of Chicago," Mr. Obama said. "Over the past two years, I have spoken often about my belief that while we may come from different places and backgrounds, there are certain shared values that unite us, values at the heart of the Olympic movement: friendship, excellence and mutual respect.

It's early in the competition and next year Obama will get a chance to to make the case for Chicago in person and as president, when the city makes its final presentation to the International Olympic Committee.