Brooklyn vies to host Democrats in 2016

NEW YORK (AP) — Mayor Bill de Blasio wants his city to host the 2016 Democratic National Convention — in Brooklyn.

New York has hosted political conventions multiple times, including the Democrats in 1992 and the Republicans in 2004.

But those events were in Manhattan at Madison Square Garden.

This is the first time another borough has been the centerpiece of the bid. And it showcases Brooklyn’s growing influence in culture and liberal politics.

The convention would be held at the Barclays Center, home of the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets.

De Blasio, a Democrat, lives in Brooklyn about a 10-minute drive from the arena. He officially made the bid on Friday.

Brooklyn’s application was first reported by The New York Times.

Fifteen cities were invited to apply. A decision is expected late this year.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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