My Two Cents - Obama's Visit to Las Vegas

So President Obama spent the better part of two days in our fair city. As you know, I'm not political, but yeah... I have an opinion on this one.

Do I think it was irresponsible for our President to damn Las Vegas as a frivolous place for businesses to spend their money? Absolutely. This city is full of reasons to have your conventions, business meetings, etc. (and I'm not talking about the topless bars or roulette tables, but hey... if conventioneers want to spend their own time and money here before and after hours - where's the problem?). Do I believe that the over 400 conventions canceled per the Las Vegas Convention Authority were in part to his statement? I'd say that's a fair assumption. But we can't blame it all on him, let's be realistic. Our city is hurting for more reasons than the President's speech. However, I do believe, that in his own way, President Obama delivered the proverbial olive branch today. His short stay was even on the Strip, at Caesar's Palace if I'm correct. In a speech at Nellis Air Force Base, he had this to say:

"You know, it’s always a pleasure to get out of Washington a little bit. Washington is OK, but it’s nice taking some time to talk to Americans of every walk of life outside of the nation’s capital. And there’s nothing like a quick trip to Vegas in the middle of the week. [This got applause.] Like millions of other Americans, we come to this beautiful city for the sights and for the sounds -- and today we come for the sun." (Quote is from the Los Angeles Times, and it's entirety can be found here.)

Our Mayor, Oscar Goodman, was there to receive the olive branch. I have been reading rumors that he may be throwing his hat into the next gubernatorial race, and WOW, would I vote for him in a second. The current Joker, errr... Governor, Jim Gibbons, snubbed the President's visit. He felt this was not enough to make up for Obama's statements about Las Vegas. Maybe he should do less pouting and more planning for what he's going to do when he's replaced as Governor - because no matter how much game he's playing right now, we'd be crazy to re-elect him (nor do I think he has a chance in Hell). Can't we all just get along?