Obama Responds To Hopenhagen Critics

By Marcus Gilmer in News on Oct 21, 2009 3:40PM

Speaking at a DNC fundraiser last night in New York City, President Obama addressed criticism of his proposed health care reform but also took a moment to address criticism of his trip to Copenhagen on behalf of Chicago's 2016 Olympic bid. Said Obama of his whirlwind, transatlantic adventure:

“What I reject is when some people sit on the sidelines and root for failure on health care, or they root for failure on reforming our energy system, or they root for failure on getting the Olympics...I mean, who’s against the Olympics? What’s up with that? You know it’s a sad thing, isn’t it? I mean, I don’t care if you’re a democrat or a republican, you know, it’s the Olympics, come on!”

It's one of the first direct statements Obama himself has made on the trip. Previously, members of the Obama administration claimed it was coaxing from local delegates, as well as claims that his appearance would likely sway the vote in Chicago's favor, that helped persuade Obama to make the trip.