In a rare move, Seattle-based Amazon is now taking applications from cities as it looks to build a second headquarters.

Speaking over the phone from Israel, Emanuel explained what he thinks makes Chicago competitive — its universities, public transit, cost of living, and “an aviation system that allows you to get anywhere in the world multiple times a day.”

The state’s financial troubles could make Chicago less appealing, but Emanuel says he’s been in touch with Governor Bruce Rauner’s administration about applying.

A Rauner spokesman says he can’t comment on any deals the governor “may or may not be involved in.”