In July 1971 the Republican National Committee chose San Diego to be the site of the 1972 Republican National Convention , despite initial opposition from the city 's mayor , Frank Curran , and despite the fact that the city did not initially bid for the opportunity . It was widely believed that San Diego was selected because it was the preferred choice of President Richard Nixon . The city and the party were making preparations for the convention when in March 1972 a $ 400,000 donation to the event by ITT Corporation was publicized and became a national scandal . In addition , there were ongoing problems with the proposed venue ( the San Diego Sports Arena ) and concerns about adequate hotel space . In May 1972 the Republican National Committee voted to move the convention to Miami , Florida . In response , Mayor Pete Wilson proclaimed the week of the convention as " America 's Finest City Week " , giving rise to the city 's current unofficial slogan " America 's Finest City "
1972 Republican National Convention
1972 Republican National Convention
History of San Diego