Greetings from the Republican National Convention

Greetings from Tampa. I thank the Palo Alto Patch for suggesting that I write a daily blog of the Republican National Convention, and I am pleased for the opportunity to do so.

The big news of course was that the Monday activities for the convention were canceled due to concerns about Tropical Storm Isaac.  As it has turned out (I am writing this on Monday afternoon), the storm has mostly by-passed Tampa, and we have just had a few showers and some extra wind, but nothing out of the ordinary.  Unfortunately, it currently looks like Isaac is aiming at New Orleans, so I certainly hope the best for the people there.

The RNC organizers know how to throw a great party. Saturday night we had a beach-front buffet dinner at our hotel which is located on St. Pete Beach.  The entire California delegation is staying together at this hotel and it was fun to get to know some of the other delegates. 

There is a large group here.  First, there are about 160 delegates, of which I am one.  We will officially nominate Mitt Romney on Tuesday.  Then there are another 160 Alternate Delegates, who are positioned to fill in should a delegate not be able to vote.  On top of that, there are many guests who have traveled with the delegates.  It is enthusiastic group to say the least!

Sunday night the Tampa Host Committee sponsored a big party at Tropicana Field, where the Rays play baseball.   There were several thousand people there with lots of music, food and entertainment.  The highlight of the evening was a concert by Rodney Atkins.  Rodney is well known for performing concerts for our troops abroad, and was a great choice to perform.

The entire California delegation met this morning for a 7:30 breakfast (4:30 California time!).  We heard from several speakers, the highlight of which was Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey.  Gov. Christie is a rising star in the
Republican Party, a governor of a deep blue state.  He has had tremendous success in righting the budget woes that had been facing NJ, as well as taking on the powerful teachers and labor unions to reduce state costs in those areas.  His theme was that the U.S. needs to also address its fiscal and economic challenges. The current administration is making our deficits worse, and the economy is floundering.  We need a new President and new direction to restore America’s promise.  Gov. Christie is speaking Tuesday night at the convention and is fascinating to listen to.

Earlier this afternoon, we were treated to a showing of 2016:  Obama’s America.  This is a truly excellent film.  Every American, no matter what their political persuasion is, should see this movie.  It is a highly insightful look into the forces that have shaped Barack Obama, and how they have influenced the decisions he has made as president.  I would highly recommend that every one reading this blog see the movie.  It is fascinating and illuminating.

That’s it for today. Tomorrow we nominate Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan.  I’ll be back with more!

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