Statement by U. S. Rep. Bobby L. Rush
in response to loss of Chicago's 2016 Olympics bid

CHICAGO –– "As I reflect on the stunning loss of Chicago's heartfelt bid to host the 2016 Olympic Games, I believe that today's action is just the latest example of the cultural breach that still exists between the United States and several leaders of the global community of nations.  Today's vote by the IOC members reflects the tattered relationships that remain after eight years of the catastrophic reign of the Bush Administration.  It will obviously take some time for the Obama Administration to continue its important work to repair that breach.

"At the same time, I am very proud of the effort put forth by President and First Lady Barack and Michelle Obama, Chicago Mayor Richard Daley, Chicago 2016 Chairman Pat Ryan and the sterling team they assembled.  I also applaud the impassioned efforts Valerie Jarrett and members of the administration.  If there's a silver lining in this cloud of disappointment it's my hope Chicago's corporate and civic leadership will join me in a reinvigorated commitment to use the focus, the brilliance and the sheer grit and determination that inspired our Olympic bid to stop the insane level of violence among our youth.  Doing right by our young people must now be the top priority of our business and civic leadership.

"I believe we must focus, right now, on those young people who need to be inspired and reconnected to the Olympic ideal of opportunity, spirited competition and the benefit of accepting victory, or defeat, with the understanding that they gave it their very best.  If that's the legacy of this monumental endeavor, then I say it was well worth it."