New Orleans -- This city has dropped its bid for the 2008 Democratic National Convention, unwilling to pay for hosting the convention after the setback the city suffered as a result of Hurricane Katrina.
Approximately $11 million for a variety of amenities and services is required to bring the Democrats to New Orleans, money that the city can better spend on rebuilding, according to Kelly Schultz, vice president of communications for the New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau.
"If we're going to raise millions of dollars in sponsorship, it can go to other needs," Schulz was quoted as saying Thursday. "We're definitely open for business again, but there were larger needs.
"It might be a little early to host something this large," she added, referring to the convention.
The remaining competitors to host the convention are Denver, Minneapolis-St. Paul, and New York City. Cities competing for the Republican National Convention are Cleveland, New York, Tampa-St. Petersburg, and Minneapolis-St. Paul.