COLUMBUS, Ohio – Lebron James’ decision to return to the Cavaliers is causing ripples in the political pond, eliciting comments from the candidates for Ohio governor and possibly affecting the 2016 Republican National Convention in Cleveland.
As happens all too often in Cleveland sports, every silver lining has its cloud.
James’ return potentially complicates Republicans’ plan to nominate their 2016 presidential pick there.
The GOP tapped Cleveland is eyeing two options for starting dates for its convention: June 28 or July 18, 2016. Should James and the Cavs make it to post-season play, that June date might be impossible. Games would be taking place as organizers should be hanging bunting and balloons.
A spokeswoman for the RNC did not immediately return messages.
Ohio’s Democratic candidate for governor says the return boosts more than the Cavaliers’ title chances.
Ed FitzGerald says, after James left for Miami four years ago, it hit Cuyahoga County’s revenues because of reduced attendance and downtown activities. FitzGerald is the chief executive of Cuyahoga County, which includes Cleveland, and was visiting Cincinnati on Friday.
He says James’ return, announced Friday, is good news not only for Cavaliers fans but for area businesses and the taxpayers. FitzGerald says it also keeps Cleveland’s momentum going, with James’ decision coming days after the convention announcement.
Meanwhile, a spokesman for Republican Gov. John Kasich says it’s more great news for both Cleveland and Ohio job creation.