Columbus has lost its bid to host the 2016 Democratic National Convention. The Democratic National Committee says the convention will be held in Philadelphia, which was chosen over Columbus and Brooklyn, New York. Columbus' geography and location in a key presidential state were viewed as strengths, but transportation access and relative fundraising ability were considered drawbacks.The 2016 Republican National Convention will be held in Cleveland. Columbus city leaders are disappointed with the party's decision. Ohio Public Radio's Andy Chow reports.
Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman remained positive, saying the city still has “swagger”. And though Republicans will have Ohio all to themselves with their convention in Cleveland, Coleman says it doesn’t mean Democrats are done here.
Coleman: “I’ll work hard. I think the rest of this community will work hard to win Ohio. And I’m confident that the D’s will win Ohio in 2016.”
Coleman would not point out anything that may have hurt the city’s chances—just that Philadelphia ended up on top.