NEW YORK (September 29, 2009)--Some Republicans are critical of President Barack Obama's decision to travel to Copenhagen later this week to lobby for Chicago's bid to host the 2016 Olympics.

Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele said Mr. Obama's effort is "noble" but is a distraction from issues including health care and job creation.

White House spokesman Robert Gibbs laughed when told about Steele's criticism.

Gibbs asked whom Steele is rooting for and suggested the Republican official would apparently rather get on a plane to Rio de Janeiro or Madrid.

Those two cities and Tokyo are competing with Chicago.

The heads of state from Brazil, Spain and Japan are appearing in person in Copenhagen Friday to make their countries' pitch.

One well-known Republican disagrees with Steele.

Former Massachusetts governor and 2008 Republican presidential contender Mitt Romney said Mr. Obama is right to make an appearance.

Romney headed the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah.