Brooklyn Bidding for DNC in 2016
Although the Democratic National Convention has been hosted several times in New York City, and the Republican National Convention was held in 2004 at Madison Square Garden, there has never been a DNC or RNC held in Brooklyn.
That might all change as Mayor of New York, Bill de Blasio announced on Friday that Brooklyn, more specifically Barclay’s Center, will apply for the honor of hosting the DNC in 2016.
“The progressive spirit of New York City has never been stronger or more vibrant than it is today” the mayor said. “We believe that this spirit can energize and captivate both the Democratic Party and the nation.”
Last April the Democratic National Committee asked 15 cities to submit official requests to host the 2016 convention. Aside from New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Cleveland, Columbus, Detroit, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Miami, Nashville, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh and Salt Lake City were also invited to bid.
“Brooklyn’s new Barclays Center is the perfect spot for the Democratic National Convention – and not just because it’s in my home borough and I could walk there from my house” New York Senator Chuck Schumer said. “New York City is the center of the media universe, home to a diverse population from every state in our union, and is the cultural capital of the world, making it the ideal setting for the Democratic Party’s Convention. The venue sits atop a treasure trove of transportation options that can whisk attendees to and from the Big Apple’s limitless attractions and hotels. I couldn’t be more excited that New York City submitted their bid to make Barclays in Brooklyn the host of the 2016 Democratic National Convention.”
