Amazon plans second headquarters, opening a bidding war among cities

The plan is the latest surprise from Mr. Bezos, Amazon's chief executive

Wanted: A place with a million people, a diverse population, good schools and malleable lawmakers. Room to accommodate up to 50,000 workers. Canadian provinces also welcome to apply.

Amazon took the unusual step on Thursday of announcing it wants a second home outside Seattle, starting what is sure to be a fierce bidding war to lure Amazon — and the thousands of high-paying jobs it will bring to town — using a combination of tax breaks and other sweeteners.

By the end of the day, cities including Chicago, Dallas and San Diego, along with states like Michigan, were vocal about their interest,