Latest on the GOP and Cleveland

From the PD

As part of its proposal, Cleveland promised it could raise at least $25 million toward costs such as podium construction and decorations.

The Republican Party, formally known as the Republican National Committee, invited 34 cities to bid for the event, which is expected to draw 50,000 visitors and inject an estimated $100 million into the local economy. Only Cleveland, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York and Tampa-St. Petersburg submitted proposals.

Cleveland's bid offers Quicken Loans Arena as the main convention site, with large tents, nearby hotels and the former Higbee Building providing additional office, function and media space.

The site selection committee will visit the arena, other event sites and hotels in all the cities, RNC spokesman Aaron McLear said.

Bob Bennett, chairman of the Ohio Republican Party, said he's hoping to pinpoint concerns before the visit so the city can address them head-on in August.

Regardless of your political preference, Ohio is just so key in national politics, this would make a great choice for any political convention.