Brooklyn Throws Hat into Ring to Host 2016 Democratic National Convention

NEW YORK (AP) — Brooklyn has become a distinctive urban brand, emanating youthful energy, gritty cool and liberal politics. Backers hope that combination makes it the edgy choice to host the 2016 Democratic convention.

New York Mayor Bill de Blasio hails from Brooklyn and is basing his city's convention bid in the borough that is no longer overshadowed by Manhattan.

Some pundits say the hip, liberal vibe could help the Democratic nominee. But others say it could alienate undecided swing-state voters.

Five other cities also made a bid: Philadelphia, Phoenix, Cleveland, Columbus, Ohio, and Birmingham, Alabama. A decision is expected by early next year.

If Brooklyn is chosen, it would be a sort of homecoming for the potential Democratic front-runner: Hillary Rodham Clinton, a former U.S. senator from New York.