Monday, Jul. 09, 2007

MB to host Democratic debate, Web site says

Convention Center or Palace Theatre to host

Myrtle Beach has landed a Democratic presidential debate scheduled for next January, according to politico.com.

The site confirmed through Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., that Myrtle Beach has been chosen, and CNN plans to televise the event. Thompson heads the Congressional Black Caucus Institute, which is responsible for picking the destination of the debate.

Brad Dean, president of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, said Monday morning that he hasn't been able to directly confirm the news, but "I feel very confident."

"I know we put on a good pitch for them," Dean said. "It's kind of awkward that the news would come from Thompson, instead of letting [Rep. James Clyburn] make the announcement for his own state. It sounds promising."

The debate will be held at either the Myrtle Beach Convention Center or The Palace Theatre.

An official announcement about the debate is expected this week, according to Campaign and Elections Magazine.

More details will be posted as they become available.