WASHINGTON, D.C. – Eight cities are in consideration to host the 2020 Democratic National Convention as the party prepares for a presidential contest that is expected to include an unusually large number of candidates, according to a NBC News report.

The Democratic National Committee sent requests for proposals to eight cities last month that expressed interest in hosting the event.

The cities are: Atlanta; Denver; Houston; New York; San Francisco; Milwaukee; Miami Beach; and Birmingham.

READ: Eager Democrats 2020 prep: DNC eyes convention cities, debates, rule changes

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said leaders are seriously considering the DNC's request for a bid. Turner's entire statement follows:

"The Democratic National Committee issued a request for proposal to the city of Houston to host the 2020 convention, and we are seriously considering it. The Democratic National Convention has been held once in Houston, in 1928, and a lot has changed since that time.

"With all that this city has to offer it is not surprising that Houston would again be among the top list of contenders to Host the DNC in 2020. Houston is the 4th largest city and most diverse city in the country and has a reputation for being a welcoming city with first-class venues and attractions.

"We are no stranger to hosting national conferences and conventions, including Super Bowl LI, the 2017 World Series, and most recently the 2018 Offshore Technology Conference this month. In 2020, Houston will host the World Petroleum Congress. In case there is any doubt, I want the world to know that after Hurricane Harvey, Houston is resilient and open for business.

"The DNC would be wise to choose our city for its 2020 convention. By hosting the DNC in 2020, Houston would increase our standing on the national and global stage, so we are certainly interested in reviewing the DNC’s requirements before deciding whether to submit a formal bid. After full consideration, we will move forward in the best interest of our city."

The DNC previously sent letters to a longer list of cities to gauge their interest. Birmingham and New York City were considered in 2016, but passed over.

Meanwhile, the Republican National Committee, is eyeing several cities for its own 2020 convention, including Las Vegas and Charlotte, North Carolina, according to the Charlotte Observer.

Charlotte hosted Democrats' 2012 convention. Las Vegas was once considered taboo for party confabs.

While past conventions have often been held in swing states or cities with symbolic significance, logistical concerns often carry more weight, especially as party conventions have grown in size and security needs.

The 2016 Democratic convention was held in Philadelphia; Donald Trump won Pennsylvania.