(AP photo)

NORFOLK, Va. (AP) – Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe says he’s hired a private consultant to help in trying to get Amazon to build its second headquarters in the state. The Virginian-Pilot reported Wednesday that Richmond, northern Virginia and Hampton Roads will craft pitches to the company. The state will submit a proposal offering Amazon its pick. Speaking at an elementary school in Norfolk, McAuliffe said Virginia is a legitimate contender. He cited the state’s central location on the East Coast as one of several advantages. Seattle-based Amazon announced nearly two weeks ago its plans to build a second headquarters. The site would employ 50,000 people. Proposals are due by Oct. 19. McAuliffe said the second headquarters will be “a game-changer for whoever gets it.”