*Please note that the RNC chose not to credential The Miami Student (I was baffled…) However, because I am here with a non-profit, I ended up with their credentials today. (Lucky Me!)The contrast between Denver and St. Paul has been telling… last Sunday as I worked with my non-profit in downtown Denver, Obama and DNC “shwag” was unavoidable. It was in your face and Denver was Obama crazy. This Sunday, as I explored St. Paul I saw a couple guys in McCain hats, an Al Franken bumper sticker, and a lonely anti-war protester. Apparently I missed the action...
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/08/30/MNQJ12LPN1.DTL
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hksHDv1i55R2qYI6dkmMm10uxZ0AD92TISL80
In St. Paul, MSNBC which runs its shows live (i.e. Morning Joe) has a very nice set up right outside the Xcel Center next to a nice fountain. Other than that there are no interest groups out in force (yet), no McCain/RNC merchandise booths sprawled across the city. No people trying to hand me dumb free stuff, no one trying to sign me up to vote, not even an anti-choice truck in sight… this feels very very different.
I overheard one member of the press say, “This place is dead, I don’t know where anything is.” My co-workers (some of whom got credentialed) had to travel all the way to The Convention Center (Minneapolis) to pick up credentials to get into the Xcel Center (St. Paul)… this whole twin cities thing is proving to be much less convenient then Denver (and Denver was a hot mess.) When we drove into Minneapolis I was happy to find people. There were some cute restaurants and outside BBQ’s and soul food (none of which had to do with the RNC.) So we finally get to the Convention Center and there are all these people walking around in yellow (buttercup yellow) shirts it kind of reminded me of baby chickens. Many of these volunteers were older adults who also wear buttons that say "Thanks for Coming!" It wasn't until I strolled into the Convention Center that I spotted a few nondescript red polos.
I happened to stumble into a delegate party and what I found was the exact opposite of the DNC scene. Firstly, we were among a handful of young people there. Instead of the celebrities they had jazz/bluegrass and family bands playing. Everything was organized inside with individual booths and vendors lined up in rows. There were beauty queens walking around, most notably... my personal favorite (Miss Texas!) There was also a booth called "Operation Gratitude" where we could write letters to our troops (which I did) and I felt really grateful that they had that there... you could also send them care packages. There was the usual barrage of anti-liberal pins, shirts, bumper stickers... but there was some especially creative "shwag" such as golf balls with Dem's' faces on them... the "flip flop Dem rocking chair"... and so much more.
There were tons of pro-christian, anti-gay, anti-choice, anti drug "stuff" and also some pretty cute elephant "wee- publican" bibs for infants. There was also a guest appearance by President Lincoln. I should also mention the museum-like feel of this "civic fest" for delegates. They had a replica of the white house and a place where you could pretend that you were being sworn into office. They had part of an air force one and they had collections of political women's dresses including many first ladies' inauguration dresses. It was pretty neat to see these pieces of history even though the eveny was certainly demographically challenged. In all fairness... there may very well have been similar delegate parties in Denver, but I had credentials there and therefore, less interest in wandering into fancy parties!
We found out yesterday that President Bush (possibly the Presidential Nominee himself) and many others will not be joining us at the RNC due to the Hurricane that is expected to hit New Orleans today.
This is the talk of the town... organizations like "ONE" aren't sure if they will be holding their party and everything seems to be "playing it by ear" now. Some people think it's for the best, it's the right thing to do: being there this time for the evacuees and making sure people understand the severity of the storm warnings and that their government does care about what happens to them. This is the GOP's attempt to not make the same "mistake" twice. As we all know the GOP bore the brunt of the blame for the aftermath of Katrina... So, the question is: Is there a political downfall for important party leaders (like our President) not showing up to the convention?
Maybe it shows the party’s extreme confidence (we don’t need a huge showy convention to win this election)… or maybe they are protecting their own self-interest (looking for a few good TV clips to release to the public.) I think it’s hard to say. Regardless, there is a general feeling of apathy and lack of passion for the convention in the twin cities. Even the traffic police are mean… (in Denver they were generally helpful and friendly.) Perhaps this will pass and the spirit of the RNC will pick up… I HOPE and think it will since Gustav has already hit. Anyway they had Laura Bush and Cindy McCain speak for what seemed like 15 minutes and they REALLY, REALLY lucked out that Bush and Cheney won't have to speak... it seems like no one wanted them here and everyone thinks that it is a good idea to distance the new GOP leadership from the Bushies. (Although I did run into Karl Rove in the hallway...)
I want to quickly interject my personal view here: I don't think our leadership has another option at this point. Republicans and the media are all talking about how it's important to not look like they are celebrating, partying and ignoring a very grave situation. I think it's important for our leaders to lead! AND obviously their complete focus needs to be on helping Americans evacuate and prepare for what is sure to be another devastating situation. So I know people are bummed out and don't feel a personal connection with the hurricane victims... but if our homes were in danger... especially after we had just begun to rebuild our lives again... I'm sure we would have a different view. I hope we can keep all the victims of natural disasters in our thoughts and prayers. It is essential that the federal government is totally engaged.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/08/30/MNQJ12LPN1.DTL
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hksHDv1i55R2qYI6dkmMm10uxZ0AD92TISL80
http://www.startribune.com/politics/national/conventions/27718564.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqyP4O:DW3ckUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUUJ
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/09/01/america/NA-POL-US-Elections.php
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/08/31/rnc.gustav/index.htmlhttp://www.gopconvention2008.com/
John McCain 2008 and 2008 Republican National Convention Announce Changes to Convention Program and Hurricane Response Efforts Monday's Convention Program Will Only Include Required Proceedings, McCain Campaign Takes Steps to Aid Affected Delegations
Important information for delegates - click here
SAINT PAUL, Minn. - At the recommendation of Sen. John McCain, the 2008 Republican National Convention announced substantial changes to the convention's program and actions being taken to help with Hurricane Gustav relief efforts. On Monday, all program activities beyond the official business that must be conducted in accordance with party rules will be cancelled. Among the other actions announced today are the formation of the Affected States Working Group, the establishment of an Affected States Information Center, and the chartering of a DC-9 to transport affected delegates. Rick Davis, campaign manager for John McCain 2008, announced that the upcoming Republican National Nominating Convention is making serious revisions to the convention program and surrounding activities. Davis said, "We are deeply concerned about the safety and welfare of the residents of the Gulf State region. Our top priority is to assist those who will be affected by Hurricane Gustav. This is not a time for politics or celebration; it is a time for us to come together as Americans and assist the residents of the Gulf States." Davis also discussed what the changes in the program will mean for the nomination process. "In order for the Republican Party to officially exist and for Senator McCain to qualify for the ballot, we are - by law - required to conduct specific official business. At this point, our program on Monday has been scaled back and will only include what party rules governing the nomination of our candidates for president and vice president require. We will perform the official business as required. In addition, we have set aside time to make delegates and Americans watching our proceedings at home aware of what they can do to assist in relief efforts designed to help those who will be affected by Hurricane Gustav." Davis concluded: "At some point between Monday and Thursday evening, we will convene once again to complete the activities needed to qualify Senator McCain and Governor Palin for the ballot in all 50 states. Beyond that, all we can say is that we will monitor what is happening and make decisions about other convention business as details become available." Chairman of the Republican National Committee Robert M. "Mike" Duncan added, "The safety and well-being of the people of the Gulf States remains our top concern. We are doing everything we can on the ground in Minneapolis-Saint Paul to ensure that the delegations affected by this storm have the resources and information that they need. As Senator McCain said this morning, we must redirect our attention and efforts. We will act as Americans - not Republicans - to help our fellow citizens in need." This morning, at the request of Governor Barbour (R-Miss.), Sen. McCain attended a briefing with the governor about the state's storm preparation efforts. The briefing was held at the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency offices in Pearl, Miss. Following the briefing, Sen. McCain, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, and Mrs. Cindy McCain toured the emergency management center. The convention is in continuous communication with all delegates, speakers, and program participants. All parties understand that the schedule for the convention will be dictated by the conditions on the ground in the Gulf States and are, therefore, subject to change. The campaign and the convention's first priority is the safety and security of those living in the areas where the hurricane will make landfall. The McCain campaign has also taken several additional steps to assist delegates from the Gulf States, including the formation of an Affected States Working Group, the chartering of a DC-9 to transport affected delegates, and the establishment of an Affected States Information Center.
The Affected States Working Group
The Affected States Working Group is comprised of a group of representatives from each of the states in Hurricane Gustav's path. The group will ensure that all affected delegates have information and assistance in real time. The Affected States Working Group is led by all five state party chairs from the affected area along with other delegation officials. The purpose of the group will be to regularly brief their delegates and convention planners, provide access to timely information and assistance, and give input on appropriate steps that can be taken from Minnesota. The state party chairs released the following joint statement: "We appreciate the thoughts and prayers of everyone around the country as we prepare for this dangerous storm. We are here in Minnesota for the necessary job of nominating our choice for president and vice president, but obviously our focus is on our families and friends back at home. We are in constant communication with our governors and elected officials and feel confident that they are taking the appropriate and necessary steps to prepare. The purpose of this group is to discuss ways that we can come together to provide information and support for our delegates here in Minneapolis." The group is made up of nine leaders from the region and is chaired by the following individuals:
Roger Villare, Louisiana State Chair
Tina Benkiser, Texas State Chair
Brad White, Mississippi State Chair
Mike Hubbard, Alabama State Chair
Jim Greer, Florida State Chair
Air Transportation Provided to Delegates
Also announced today were transportation arrangements for delegates from states affected by Hurricane Gustav. The McCain 2008 campaign has chartered a DC-9 that will transport delegates that wish to return to home to their states. The DC-9 will leave Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport today and will fly to Jackson, Mississippi. All transportation costs will be covered by the McCain 2008 campaign. "As we all watch and prepare for Gustav to make landfall, it is important that the convention make it as easy as possible for delegates to be where they are needed most - with their families and local agencies in their home states. We are grateful to Senator McCain for making this resource available to the delegates from the Gulf States," Maria Cino, President and CEO of the Republican National Convention 2008, said today.
Affected States Information Center
The convention has established an Affected States Information Center, which will be fully staffed and located inside the Xcel Energy Center. The center will remain open during the Xcel Energy Center's operating hours and will serve as a central location where delegates can get news about the hurricane, weather reports, and information about rescue relief organizations; access to computers and phones; and the resources they need to address their situations back home. Delegates can go to the center and get information. There will also be contacts in the center that can contact Gulf State governors, if needed.
Republican Party Rules
The convention program has been altered in response to the situation developing in the Gulf States region. However, the convention will still take place. According to party rules, it is necessary for the convention to proceed in order to ensure that the party is able to place its candidates' names on the ballot in November. On November 9, 2007, pursuant to the rules adopted at the 2004 National Republican Convention, the party issued the call for its convention. The call requires that the convention meet on Sept. 1, 2008. The session must be convened no earlier than 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m. Under the current party rules, this is the only method by which the party may select a candidate for President and Vice President.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/08/30/MNQJ12LPN1.DTL
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hksHDv1i55R2qYI6dkmMm10uxZ0AD92TISL80
http://www.startribune.com/politics/national/conventions/27718564.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqyP4O:DW3ckUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUUJ
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/09/01/america/NA-POL-US-Elections.php
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/08/31/rnc.gustav/index.htmlhttp://www.gopconvention2008.com/
John McCain 2008 and 2008 Republican National Convention Announce Changes to Convention Program and Hurricane Response Efforts Monday's Convention Program Will Only Include Required Proceedings, McCain Campaign Takes Steps to Aid Affected Delegations
Important information for delegates - click here
SAINT PAUL, Minn. - At the recommendation of Sen. John McCain, the 2008 Republican National Convention announced substantial changes to the convention's program and actions being taken to help with Hurricane Gustav relief efforts. On Monday, all program activities beyond the official business that must be conducted in accordance with party rules will be cancelled. Among the other actions announced today are the formation of the Affected States Working Group, the establishment of an Affected States Information Center, and the chartering of a DC-9 to transport affected delegates. Rick Davis, campaign manager for John McCain 2008, announced that the upcoming Republican National Nominating Convention is making serious revisions to the convention program and surrounding activities. Davis said, "We are deeply concerned about the safety and welfare of the residents of the Gulf State region. Our top priority is to assist those who will be affected by Hurricane Gustav. This is not a time for politics or celebration; it is a time for us to come together as Americans and assist the residents of the Gulf States." Davis also discussed what the changes in the program will mean for the nomination process. "In order for the Republican Party to officially exist and for Senator McCain to qualify for the ballot, we are - by law - required to conduct specific official business. At this point, our program on Monday has been scaled back and will only include what party rules governing the nomination of our candidates for president and vice president require. We will perform the official business as required. In addition, we have set aside time to make delegates and Americans watching our proceedings at home aware of what they can do to assist in relief efforts designed to help those who will be affected by Hurricane Gustav." Davis concluded: "At some point between Monday and Thursday evening, we will convene once again to complete the activities needed to qualify Senator McCain and Governor Palin for the ballot in all 50 states. Beyond that, all we can say is that we will monitor what is happening and make decisions about other convention business as details become available." Chairman of the Republican National Committee Robert M. "Mike" Duncan added, "The safety and well-being of the people of the Gulf States remains our top concern. We are doing everything we can on the ground in Minneapolis-Saint Paul to ensure that the delegations affected by this storm have the resources and information that they need. As Senator McCain said this morning, we must redirect our attention and efforts. We will act as Americans - not Republicans - to help our fellow citizens in need." This morning, at the request of Governor Barbour (R-Miss.), Sen. McCain attended a briefing with the governor about the state's storm preparation efforts. The briefing was held at the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency offices in Pearl, Miss. Following the briefing, Sen. McCain, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, and Mrs. Cindy McCain toured the emergency management center. The convention is in continuous communication with all delegates, speakers, and program participants. All parties understand that the schedule for the convention will be dictated by the conditions on the ground in the Gulf States and are, therefore, subject to change. The campaign and the convention's first priority is the safety and security of those living in the areas where the hurricane will make landfall. The McCain campaign has also taken several additional steps to assist delegates from the Gulf States, including the formation of an Affected States Working Group, the chartering of a DC-9 to transport affected delegates, and the establishment of an Affected States Information Center.
The Affected States Working Group
The Affected States Working Group is comprised of a group of representatives from each of the states in Hurricane Gustav's path. The group will ensure that all affected delegates have information and assistance in real time. The Affected States Working Group is led by all five state party chairs from the affected area along with other delegation officials. The purpose of the group will be to regularly brief their delegates and convention planners, provide access to timely information and assistance, and give input on appropriate steps that can be taken from Minnesota. The state party chairs released the following joint statement: "We appreciate the thoughts and prayers of everyone around the country as we prepare for this dangerous storm. We are here in Minnesota for the necessary job of nominating our choice for president and vice president, but obviously our focus is on our families and friends back at home. We are in constant communication with our governors and elected officials and feel confident that they are taking the appropriate and necessary steps to prepare. The purpose of this group is to discuss ways that we can come together to provide information and support for our delegates here in Minneapolis." The group is made up of nine leaders from the region and is chaired by the following individuals:
Roger Villare, Louisiana State Chair
Tina Benkiser, Texas State Chair
Brad White, Mississippi State Chair
Mike Hubbard, Alabama State Chair
Jim Greer, Florida State Chair
Air Transportation Provided to Delegates
Also announced today were transportation arrangements for delegates from states affected by Hurricane Gustav. The McCain 2008 campaign has chartered a DC-9 that will transport delegates that wish to return to home to their states. The DC-9 will leave Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport today and will fly to Jackson, Mississippi. All transportation costs will be covered by the McCain 2008 campaign. "As we all watch and prepare for Gustav to make landfall, it is important that the convention make it as easy as possible for delegates to be where they are needed most - with their families and local agencies in their home states. We are grateful to Senator McCain for making this resource available to the delegates from the Gulf States," Maria Cino, President and CEO of the Republican National Convention 2008, said today.
Affected States Information Center
The convention has established an Affected States Information Center, which will be fully staffed and located inside the Xcel Energy Center. The center will remain open during the Xcel Energy Center's operating hours and will serve as a central location where delegates can get news about the hurricane, weather reports, and information about rescue relief organizations; access to computers and phones; and the resources they need to address their situations back home. Delegates can go to the center and get information. There will also be contacts in the center that can contact Gulf State governors, if needed.
Republican Party Rules
The convention program has been altered in response to the situation developing in the Gulf States region. However, the convention will still take place. According to party rules, it is necessary for the convention to proceed in order to ensure that the party is able to place its candidates' names on the ballot in November. On November 9, 2007, pursuant to the rules adopted at the 2004 National Republican Convention, the party issued the call for its convention. The call requires that the convention meet on Sept. 1, 2008. The session must be convened no earlier than 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m. Under the current party rules, this is the only method by which the party may select a candidate for President and Vice President.
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