Denver may have just moved up a notch in the competiton to host the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Why? Because its chief competitor, Minneapolis, was just chosen to host the Republican convention.

Party and state officials announced the selection Wednesday. The convention is slated for Sept. 1-4, 2008…. Democrats also had been considering holding their convention in the Twin Cities, but the Republican announcement left Democrats with two competing cities to choose from — New York and Denver.

Can Denver beat New York?

“The DNC was thrilled to have three great American cities submit strong bids for the 2008 Democratic National Convention. We are looking forward to working with Denver and New York as we make our final decision,” said Stacie Paxton, a Democratic party spokeswoman.

A lot is riding on the unionization factor — Denver’s hotel workers are not unionized. But, as we reported here two weeks ago, the unions have dropped their opposition to Denver hosting the Convention.

Keep your fingers crossed. My advice to the DNC: Choose Denver. We’re an important swing state. We were red but we’ve been turning blue. We’re closer to the heartland. We’re clean and friendly and beautiful. We have mountains we’ll move to please you. We’ll appreciate your business. Our local news is first rate and will provide you all the coverage the national networks won’t. We have a great mayor who will roll out the blue carpet for you. Just say yes.