Anticipating the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall enfolding their presidential nominee in a patriotic glow, Democrats on Thursday chose Philadelphia for their 2016 national convention.
The symbolism of the city, where the founding fathers overcame broad ideological and regional differences to forge consensus, helped Philadelphia prevail over New York and Columbus, Ohio.
“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,” Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz, the chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee, said on Thursday.
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Philadelphia showed her the many luxury boxes at the Wells Fargo Center in South Philadelphia, which are crucial to luring corporate sponsors who are expected to donate a large share of the convention funding. City officials took her to dinner at a Center City restaurant pulsing with the sort of millennials who have revitalized the downtown, and they showed her sites around Independence Hall.
“We’re a great visual because of the heritage,” Mr. Rendell said before the decision was announced. “Imagine Hillary giving a speech with Independence Hall behind her.”
