Daley praises President Obama’s plan to head to Copenhagen for Chicago’s 2016 Olympics pitch

Daley praises Obama’s decision to go to Denmark

CHICAGO — Chicago Mayor Richard Daley says he’s honored that both President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama will head to Copenhagen in support of Chicago’s bid to host the 2016 Summer Olympics.

White House adviser Valerie Jarrett told The Associated Press on Monday that the president will leave Thursday for Europe. Obama would be the first U.S. president to take on such a direct role in lobbying for the games.

Daley says the Obamas “symbolize the hope, opportunity and inspiration that makes Chicago great.” And the mayor says there’s nobody better to tell members of the International Olympic Committee about Chicago’s commitment and enthusiasm for the games.

Chicago is competing with Rio de Janeiro, Madrid and Tokyo. The IOC will pick the host city on Friday.