Phoenix will submit a bid to host the 2016 Democratic National Convention after being named one of 15 cities invited to participate in the bid process, Mayor Greg Stanton said on Tuesday. Also on the list are Chicago, Detroit, Atlanta and Las Vegas.
A decision is not expected until late this year or early 2015.
“Phoenix is an ideal host for the national convention, and it’s a great opportunity for us to showcase the vibrancy and diversity of our community,” said Stanton. “Hosting the convention would deliver an important boost to local businesses, and would also put the issues we face in Phoenix every day on the national stage.”
The DNC will choose the host city in late 2014 or early 2015, and the convention will be held in summer 2016. Cities will be evaluated based on local issues and logistical criteria. Most cities expect the convention to cost between $55 million and $60 million.
Stanton also supported efforts for Phoenix to host the Republican National Convention, but Phoenix is no longer in consideration as a potential host city for that event.