Sep 3, 2008 7:13 pm US/Central
Skipped VP Candidates Address GOP Delegates
ST. PAUL (WCCO) ―
Wednesday morning Minnesota delegates got to hear from the runners-up in the vice presidential sweepstakes, including Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty.
Pawlenty praised the person who did get the vice presidential nod, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin.
"She also has a compelling life story and a record of reform and accountability and change in Alaska that will allow us to open the doors and have a conversation and get the support from man, many more Americans who wouldn't ordinarily think about voting for Republicans," said Pawlenty.
Also appearing before the Minnesota delegates were Pennsylvania Governor Tom Ridge and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney.
"People will also see a mom who is also a fighter and a reformer who took on the Republican establishment in Alaska and beat it," said Romney.
Many Minnesota Republican delegates believe the news coverage of Palin has been unfair.
"It's time to circle the wagons around her," said delegate and Minnesota House Minority Leader Rep. Marty Seifert.
Like many Minnesota delegates, Seifert believes the challenge for Palin will be to appeal to voters watching on television Wednesday night. Seifert said he believes Minnesotans will like what they see.
"She is a hockey Mom, she likes to snowmobile. I just think there are so many things that we have in common with the Palins," said Seifert.
Republican sources said Palin is already planning a return trip to Minnesota on September 22 for a fundraiser and campaign appearance.
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