Colorado's Democratic Senators Want GOP Convention In Denver

DENVER (AP) — Colorado's two Democratic Senators on Friday urged Republicans to hold their next national convention in the Mile-High City, saying it would give delegates the chance to "experience the amazing quality of life that we have here in Colorado."

Senators Mark Udall and Michael Bennet wrote a letter to the Republican National Committee touting Denver's walkable downtown, 8,400 hotel rooms and sunny climate. They also noted that a new light-rail line linking the central city to the airport is due to be running by 2016 and that the city has a successful track record hosting major events, including the 2008 Democratic National Convention where Barack Obama was formally nominated as that party's presidential candidate.

Gov. John Hickenlooper and Mayor Michael Hancock, both Democrats, have also urged the RNC to come to Denver in 2016, as has the Democrat-controlled state Legislature. Several high-profile Republicans, including former Gov. Bill Owens, are also trying to lure the RNC to Denver.

It is not unusual for politicians from both parties to push for political conventions because of the economic boost they can bring.

Denver is competing with several other cities to host the event. Other contenders include Las Vegas, Kansas City, Dallas, Phoenix and Columbus, Ohio.