Brooklyn bids to host 2016 Democratic convention

New York City has submitted a bid to host the 2016 Democratic National Convention at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Friday.

On Thursday, de Blasio submitted a one-page letter to Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee, offering the Barclays Center for the convention.

"New York City offers an unparalleled stage on which to host the DNC," de Blasio wrote. "The progressive spirit of New York City has never been stronger or more vibrant than it is today. The values of the Democratic Party -- inclusion, diversity, compassion -- are part of our city's spirit. We believe that this spirit can energize and captivate both the Democratic Party and the nation."

De Blasio called the Barclays Center, in the Prospect Heights neighborhood, an ideal venue, convenient to nine subway lines and the Long Island Rail Road.

The mayor, whose home is less than two miles away, has taken on a national profile as a hero of the left wing of the Democratic Party, and he has spoken repeatedly about wanting to bring his party's convention to New York City in 2016.

In March, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Economic Development Alicia K. Glen wrote to Wasserman Schultz suggesting a range of options, including Barclays, Madison Square Garden -- where Democrats nominated Bill Clinton in 1992 and Republicans chose George W. Bush in 2004 -- and the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

DNC spokesman Lily Adams said the committee asked 15 cities to submit proposals, including Chicago, Cleveland, Salt Lake City and Nashville. The final decision will be announced late this year or early next year, she said.