first dispatches from st. paul: updated twice

September 2nd, 2008 at 02:52am Jennie Pollock

as we told you here first, mike hakanson is at the republican national convention, and here’s something he sent me late last night on his blackberry:

No one knew what to expect as the storms drew nearer and our efforts of aid and comfort were being assembled in St. Paul.

When it was announced that the RNC, along with the fine folks at Target and FedEx, were going to send 80,000 care packages to those who needed them most, our neighbors in the Gulf Coast, I knew that Mr. McCain’s dialogue was more than political chit chat. The straight talk express was for real and delivering what it stood for. Action, in the place of diction.

It sure seems like VP candidate Palin has electrified this group.

The only candidate with executive experience as well as firsthand knowledge of the importance and support needed for increased domestic oil production. These are the words being used to describe Gov. Palin as we embark on this historic convention.

So much is happening, I can’t wait to tell you how tomorrow goes!

UPDATED:

10:36 a.m.: Breakfast with friends, 350 miles away.

I’ve just finished eating breakfast with Senator Syverson at the Illinois delegation’s morning meeting. It’s interesting to hear the delegations VERY enthusiastic support of Sarah Palin. Her commitment to reforming not only the way we govern, but the entire party itself, really has people excited. 

It is quite insightful to see the state leaders assemble and hold court afterward. Governors Edgar and Thompson still have the ability to engage a lot of people in different conversations at once. It is a skill every candidate (including myself!) should learn.

Our own Senator Syverson as well as General Borling seem to be attracting some media attention as well as their own groups of admirers. The convention is in full swing now, so I’ll keep you up to date on the festivities!

 2:05 p.m.: I’m getting ready to hit the Xcel energy center and really dig into the convention. Joe Lieberman and Fred Thompson are the featured speakers this evening. I’m interested to see and hear what kind of reception Lieberman gets. I imagine it will be mixed, the more conservative, the less receptive.

Fred Thompson is always an engaging and enjoyable speaker. I’ll let you know how it goes!

P.S. Every person involved with the Republican National Convention is donating at least an hour of time to assemble the care packages for the suffering in the Gulf Coast. The Illinois delegation’s time is tomorrow between 12:30 and 2. I’m really quite proud of how the Republicans have come together in this time of need to act quickly and help those who can’t help themselves right now.

Entry Filed under: Republican National Convention, Election 2008