It’s Official: Philly to Host 2016 DNC
Supporters waiting to greet Democratic National Committee (DNC) representatives in August in Philadelphia.
Democratic officials announced today that Philadelphia has been chosen to host the 2016 Democratic National Convention.
Congressman Bob Brady confirms Philadelphia Choice for DNC Convention in 2016
— Tom MacDonald–WHYY (@TMacDonaldWHYY) February 12, 2015
Today, DNC Chair Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz announced Philadelphia will host the 2016 Democratic National Convention the week of July 25, 2016. The DNC signed the final contract with Philadelphia this morning.
“I am thrilled to announce that Philadelphia will host the convention where we will nominate the 45th President of the United States,” Wasserman Schultz said. “In addition to their commitment to a seamless and safe convention, Philadelphia’s deep rooted place in American history provides a perfect setting for this special gathering. I cannot wait to join Democrats across the country to celebrate our shared values, lay out a Democratic vision for the future, and support our nominee.”
The DNC’s Technical Advisory Group evaluated cities across the country, looking at factors such as hotel capacity, transportation, security, financing and logistics.
“The City of Philadelphia is excited and honored to be selected as the host city for the 2016 Democratic National Convention,” Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter said.
“We believe that it was our proven track record of hosting big events safely and efficiently with a dynamic team of top-tier professionals to organize and manage a conference of this magnitude, paired with our City’s tremendous amenities, its accessible location and historical significance, which made Philadelphia the ideal choice for the 2016 DNC. I want to thank our great team at PHL DNC 2016, Governor Rendell and Governor Wolf, Senator Casey, Congressman Brady, Congressman Fattah, and former Congresswoman Schwartz. I especially want to acknowledge our great partners in the Labor unions, business and political communities, clergy and our citizens, who are eager to see Philadelphia on the national stage as the host city. We’re all delighted to make history again, here in the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection.”
Gov. Tom Wolf added his own statement: “Today’s announcement is tremendous news for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The birthplace of our democracy will host the Democratic National Convention in 2016, which will generate hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity in the state. We look forward to working with local leaders to ensure that Philadelphia will shine in the national spotlight.”
Jim Kenney, former City Council member and currently a candidate for mayor, added: “My congratulations to Governor Rendell, Congressman Brady, Mayor Nutter, City Council, Visit Philly, PHLCVB and all the others who worked tirelessly to bring the DNC’s convention to Philadelphia. As a councilman, I saw first hand the effort that went into making Philadelphia’s tourism and hospitality industries stronger than ever. I especially thank City Council for coming together last year to introduce a resolution that expressed Philadelphia’s sincerest interest in hosting this tremendous honor and bringing an economic boost to our city.”
The DNC signed the final contract with Philadelphia this morning. #phillyconvention #DNC
— Marc Levy (@timelywriter) February 12, 2015
"Hugs work," says @RepBrady in how Philadelphia was chosen to host the DNC. He hugged Debbie Wasserman Schultz every day until she said yes.
— Claudia Vargas (@ByClaudiaVargas) February 12, 2015
From DNC announcement: "Philadelphia’s deep rooted place in American history provides a perfect setting for this special gathering".
— Philadelphia Inquirer Politics (@PoliticsINQ) February 12, 2015
Philly Twitter was happy:
#Philly has the Pope coming this year, the DNC next year – IT'S A GREAT TIME TO BE A PHILADELPHIAN! #NextMayorPHL
— Poug Dederson (@PougDederson) February 12, 2015
DNC announces @FanSince09 as chairman of the 2016 convention.
— David Weigel (@daveweigel) February 12, 2015
DNC to hold July 2016 Convention in Philly.Last time there:July 1948 where Harry Truman was nominated. @cspanPolitics http://t.co/6x7WHsnzTW
— Craig Caplan (@CraigCaplan) February 12, 2015
PlanPhilly’s Ashley Hahn points out that the convention could be an opportunity to bring improved services for all of Philadelphia:
Like Denver, I hope we use this opportunity to host the most pro-transit, pro-bike convention possible. Security for superstar pols will make that impossible for some, but we should make alternative transportation enticing for regular conventioneers.
That means SEPTA has to be spotless – a huge boon for regular Philadelphians – and our fledgling bike share program has to be flawless. Let’s go through a million gallons of bleach and paint to spit-polish SEPTA subway stations and concourses. Let’s also make it easy for conventioneers to take bike share by giving conventioneers maps and discount codes.
