Serious question about Denver and Wisconsin delegation

[thoughtcrime1984]

I looked into the Magnolia Hotel, where the Wisconsin delegation is staying, and the prices are UNGODLY high. Does anyone know what the reasoning behind the expensive hotel was? I don't think I can even consider being a delegate at that price. Could a person find their own place to stay and cab it over for the AM caucuses? Any response would be immensely appreciated!

[sybylla]

1. I've been told by someone who's been a delegate before that...

You buddy up to share a room with three others. Then you divide that $269/night 4 ways, which is still ridiculous considering you only spend a few hours a day there, but the hoteliers have no reason to discount with every room in the city taken for the convention.

The feeling I get is that you cannot stay anywhere else as a delegate or alternate for security purposes - though there are others who post here occasionally that would know better about that. Yes, I said security. Delegates and alternates, from what I've been told, are bussed from the hotel to the convention under guard. Your credentials as a delegate or alternate are worth a great deal - anyone could get into the convention with them and you can't get in without them.

Perhaps someone else here can confirm or deny what I've heard.

[dragonlady]

2. That all sounds very reasonable

Jason Rae mentioned at the last county party meeting that he plans to share with as many delegates as he can to keep the cost down. And as far as security, it's probably sad but true that they have to be really, really careful. Especially this year, who is or is not a delegate and eligible to vote may be crucial to the outcome (let's hope it doesn't come down to that).

[goddess40]

3. Any place in town is going to only give the rack rate

that ungodly high rate that is published on the back of the room door in all hotels. It's supply and demand. I wouldn't be surprised if cab rates didn't soar also.

From what I heard from past attendees you have to be at the hotel to get your credentials.

[ThisIsMyCountry]

4. Magnolia?

I thought it was the Marriott. I was reading this page at the convention website. http://www.demconvention.com/delegation-hotel-assignments-announced-for-2008-democratic-national-convention/ Apparently the DNC assigns us to a hotel, we don't get to pick one.

[thoughtcrime1984]

5. It would appear you are correct

The prices are 330-350 dollars per night there. Ugh.