Justice

Is Hosting a Political Convention Worth It for a Mayor?

City leaders looking to boost their political profiles may want to think twice.
Workers install lighting for a giant banner in downtown Cleveland near the site of the Republican National Convention. Rick Wilking/Reuters

For mayors with lofty political ambitions—like say, eventually running for a higher office—hosting a presidential convention like the RNC in Cleveland this week or the DNC in Philadelphia next week can present an apparent opportunity to show off their cities as well as their own political talents.

But how much does hosting a major political party’s convention really boost a mayor’s career, propelling them into higher offices such as governorships or congressional seats?