2 US Senators: Pick Philadelphia For Democratic Convention
WASHINGTON (AP) — Pennsylvania's two U.S. senators are teaming up to urge the Democratic National Committee to pick Philadelphia for its 2016 convention.
In a letter Thursday, Democrat Bob Casey and Republican Pat Toomey touted the city to DNC Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz as the best choice. Philadelphia is competing against two other finalists, Columbus, Ohio, and New York City's Brooklyn borough, which are hoping to host their first conventions.
Casey and Toomey point to Philadelphia's unique historical significance as the birthplace of democracy and its track record of hosting conventions, including the 2000 Republican National Convention. They say Philadelphia, as the East Coast's second-largest city, is easily accessible to travelers and has proved its hotels and restaurants can accommodate a large-scale event.
"Philadelphia is ready for this convention," Casey and Toomey wrote.
Wasserman Schultz and a team of DNC staff visited the three finalists last week and are sorting through logistical details before making a decision. An announcement is expected in the coming days.
"We have three excellent options and are looking forward to making a selection soon," DNC spokeswoman Lily Adams said Thursday.
The Democratic convention, scheduled to be held the week of July 25, 2016, brings national media attention and up to $200 million for the local economy.
DNC officials have stressed that a location must meet logistical requirements — fundraising, ample hotel rooms and local transportation — before political factors such as swing state status and diversity are considered.
Pennsylvania, a perennial swing state with 20 electoral votes, more recently has trended liberal, due in part to Hispanic immigration and other population growth in Philadelphia and its suburbs. Democratic presidential candidates have carried the state since 1992.
Republicans chose Cleveland for their 2016 convention, citing in part Ohio's importance as a battleground state..
(© Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
