NY / Region|DNC Picks New York City as a Finalist for Its 2016 Convention

The Democratic National Committee said Monday that it had narrowed its list of possible convention sites in 2016 to three cities: Columbus, Ohio, New York and Philadelphia.

The committee had previously been considering Phoenix and Birmingham, Ala. as well.

'We're thrilled to move to the next step of the selection process to determine where Democrats will come together to nominate the 45th president of the United States,' said Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz, the committee's chairwoman. 'We are fortunate to have such a diverse and vibrant group of cities interested in hosting this special event and we thank Phoenix and Birmingham for showcasing their special communities.'

In New York, Mayor Bill de Blasio has made a spirited case for his home borough, Brooklyn, where the convention would be held at the Barclays Center. He planned to convene a meeting with community leaders about the city's efforts later on Monday.