On Monday we begin the actual business portion of the convention. Every morning the Wisconsin delegation has breakfast together, listens to speakers, and is informed about the day’s schedule. On Monday we heard from the Governor of Indiana, McCain’s Campaign manager, Carlton Fiorina, and a former Vietnam POW. The speeches were all short but effective as they talked about McCain’s campaign and character from completely different angles. After breakfast we have a few hours to get ready before leaving for the opening day of business on the convention floor.

Security is tight as we finally head to the convention around 12:30. Due to the hurricane, floor time at the convention is moved earlier and shortened. At our first meeting rules, platform, and other committees report as well as the election of convention leaders. We meet many Republicans from around the country and listen to stories from other campaigns and candidates. Everyone from the Texas delegation is wearing a cowboy hat – making them easy to pick out in a crowd. All of the delegates and alternates scurry to find their seats when the opening gavel is heard. All of Wisconsin’s delegates and alternates pair up to make sure that everyone gets time to be on the floor of the convention. At about 3:30 I switch credentials with a delegate to join Wisconsin on the convention floor. Later, First Lady Laura Bush and Cindy McCain both address the convention to inform us with the information of charities that are helping the Gulf Coast states. “Country First” remains the theme for the convention and we are constantly reminded how in this time of need we are not Republicans but Americans. Just after five o’clock the convention is adjourned, for the night, and we head back to our hotel.

For anyone willing to help with the Hurricane Relief please go to www.causegreater.com for more information.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, September 2nd, 2008 at 9:59 am and is filed under News.