This article came out yesterday but I didn't find it posted anywhere on DU. Sorry if it's a dupe.
http://www.nynewsday.com/news/local/newyork/ny-uscrus1111,0,5613251.story?coll=nyc-topheadlines-span<snip>
Republicans, including Majority Leader Tom DeLay and Rep. Vito Fossella, are considering docking a luxury cruise ship in New York Harbor where members of Congress and lobbyists could stay and play during the GOP convention next summer.
The idea of bunking members of Congress on the Norwegian Dawn cruise ship is under consideration because of the unique qualities the ship would bring, including privacy and security, according to a spokesman for Fossella (R-Staten Island).
Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who touted the revenue for New York City's hotels and restaurants as one of the best things about bringing a convention to the city, is not amused.
..
The cruise ship, with accommodations for 2,200 guests and 14 bars and 10 restaurants, would mirror other hospitality suites DeLay (R-Texas) has championed for members of Congress at past conventions. At the 2000 Republican convention in Philadelphia, DeLay secured private railroad cars, where members could meet and mingle with invited guests such as lobbyists -- no media allowed. He also provided members of Congress with cars and drivers. The amenities were funded by corporate contributions to a political action committee.
"It's as if Tom DeLay is the personal concierge for members," said one Republican staffer who refused further identification.
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I think I'm gonna be sick.
If DeLay et al. don't think NYC is a safe place for the GOP convention, why did they pick it? This would really be a slap at the city. I hope this gets a lot of press, even if it ends up sinking on the bottom of NY Harbor.
s_m