I think the republicans will keep yesterday's format for the rest of the convention and probably

[RB TexLa]

future conventions. Having to make appearances at the convention for those delegates just gets in the way.


By SEAN MUSSENDEN
MEDIA GENERAL NEWS SERVICE
Published: September 2, 2008

Hurricane Gustav forced Republicans to restructure yesterday’s convention schedule to avoid appearing insensitive, but the parties kept on going.

Across the Twin Cities, corporations—almost all that lobby Congress and state governments—and interest groups are going ahead with hundreds of parties to fete lawmakers—from country music concerts to exclusive dinners at posh restaurants.

For example, AT&T, the telecom giant that earlier this year persuaded Congress to grant it immunity from warrantless-wiretapping lawsuits, gave parties for delegations from South Carolina, Indiana and others.

Events held by railroads, pharmaceutical companies, real estate agents, beer companies and dozens of other industries that lobby Congress are planned through the week.

The events provide elected officials with free drinks and food.

They provide lobbyists easy access to lawmakers to talk up favorable legislation.





http://www.wsls.com/sls/news/politics/article/rnc_curbed_but_not_the_parties/16677/

[DS1]

1. The GOP, party at 4:30, passed out by 8, up tomorrow

ready for it all again. Those Zimas sure pack a punch!

[Virginia Dare]

2. It's like Mardis Gras..

the last hurrah, party like it's 1999...

[Crankie Avalon]

3. Well, if an incumbent party's convention is supposed to be when they remind the country ...

...of all the great things they have accomplished during the past 4 or 8 years, maybe they don't even need any convention at all.