First lady steals the show in Minneapolis

The highlight of Monday’s Republican National Convention was first lady Laura Bush, who awed delegates and guests with her graceful presence. The applause continued long after she had walked on stage and even after she had thanked everyone several times, a sign of how popular she is with Republicans.
Center and foremost in her remarks was concern for those along the Gulf Coast who were directly in the path of Hurricane Gustav. While saying that at times like this we are all Americans, she introduced messages from Gulf Coast state governors — all of whom are Republicans and could not attend the convention — and information on how to provide hurricane relief.
Mrs. Bush had stepped behind the stage while a video ran with messages from the governors of the states affected by Gustav. Afterward, she stepped back on stage with Cindy McCain by her side, and the Xcel Center exploded in applause once again.
The local evening news showed protesters in St. Paul on Monday, but we never saw them. Our hats are off to the riot police who kept our route safe for delegate buses accessing the convention.
The friendliness of the people of Minnesota has been extremely impressive as they smile, welcome us, shake hands, wish us a good day. They have helped make this an extremely positive experience.
Del. Chris Saxman and his dad, Bill, flew into Minneapolis on Monday morning and joined us on the bus trip to the Xcel Center for the afternoon session. With four kids and three soccer games over the weekend, he delayed his arrival so he could spend that time with his family, but he was all over the floor of the convention center once he arrived.
Monday’s Virginia delegation breakfast featured inspirational remarks from friends and supporters of John McCain as well as remarks from Attorney General Bob McDonnell and Congresswoman Thelma Drake. Also in attendance were Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling, former Attorney General Jerry Kilgore and former Republican Party of Virginia Chairman John Hager.
An invitation once again went out to delegates to financially help the Gulf Coast folks as they face the devastation of Hurricane Gustav.
Tuesday’s convention schedule was uncertain Monday night.