White House

Philadelphia Gets Endorsements to Host 2016 Democratic National Convention

The Democratic National Committee may still be deciding whether to host the 2016 convention in Philadelphia, but the city is getting support from Beltway media.

Washington Post editorial board member Jonathan Capehart penned a blog post for the paper comparing the three contenders for the upcoming convention — Brooklyn, Columbus, Ohio and, of course, Philadelphia.

Outlining major concerns like security, fundraising, transportation and lodging for attendees, Capehart admits Brooklyn may best Philly in those areas. Add in potential nominee Hillary Rodham Clinton accepting the party's nod in the state she represented as a U.S. senator, and it may seem a lock for the borough.

But, Capehart still says Philly offers "American drama" that no other city can.

"Democrats have an opportunity to remind the nation that love of country, the flag and the ideals we hold most dear are not the sole province of the Republican Party," he writes. "If Democrats want to propel their nominee out of their convention armed with the best argument for a third term in the White House, they will do so from Philadelphia."

Capehart's backing comes on the heels of an endorsement in the same newspaper by Chris Matthews, host of msnbc's "Hardball."

Matthews, a Northeast Philly native, outlined how a local convention could play out themes outlined in the Declaration of Independence.

"The four nights of the Democratic convention could highlight these powerful words and phrases of the Declaration of Independence.

An African American could speak proudly of the election of Barack Obama and of the continued struggle against voter suppression.

A gay couple could talk about marriage equality and their right to the pursuit of happiness.

A female delegate could make the case for equal treatment — and pay — in the workplace."

Philly hosted the Republican National Convention in 2000. The city will also play host to the World Meeting of Families and a visit by Pope Francis and two million of his closest followers. Proof, officials say, that the city can handle the crush of a modern political convention.

A small DNC contingent revisited all three cities last week ahead of their expected decision later this month.

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