RI Republicans Cast Votes for Mitt Romney

After Tropical Storm Isaac postponed Monday's schedule at the Republican National Convention, thousands of delegates from across the nation convened on Tuesday afternoon at the Tampa Bay Times Forum to start official party business.

Before the Rhode Island delegation traveled to the convention, hwoever, we had the opportunity to hear from Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers. She spoke about the challenges of being a Republican in a "blue" state, difficulties she faces traveling across the country to represent Eastern Washington, and the impact of "Obamacare" on states like RI. 

At the convention, Rhode Island cast 15 of its 19 presidential votes for former Massachusetss Governor Mitt Romney and the remaining 4 votes went to Texas Congressman Ron Paul. Gov. Romney easily attained enough delegates to win the Republican nomination for President and Wisconsin Congressman Paul Ryan was nominated as his Vice Presidential running mate.

The electricity in The Forum for the Primetime speeches was palpable. Governors from across the nation spoke to the audience about free markets, entrepreneurs, and praising success of small businesses in the United States. Ann Romney, wife of the Presidential nominee, spoke to the crowd about their family, Mitt, and her battles with both breast cancer and M.S. She spoke about women and how they have fewer jobs and less take home pay than four years ago. She spoke to the audience about how women manage their lives and their families under the crushing costs of health care, gas, groceries, and taxes. Her message was that she believes her husband is the right person for the job in these difficult times.

In the keynote address, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie spoke about leaders and the hard choices politicians will need to make in the next four years to balance our nation's budget and retain fiscal sanity to Washington D.C. The convention's events concluded at midnight and will re-convene on Wednesday at 7 pm.

On Wednesday night, we will hear from Vice Presidential Nominee Paul Ryan about his journey to where he is today, and his vision for the future of America.

Until next time, Peter Costa, Jr.

Peter Costa, Jr. is a candidate for House Dist. 67.