Republicans on Saturday canceled the opening day of their national convention, saying their first concern was for the safety of delegates and guests in the face of Tropical Storm Isaac, which is strengthening and is headed toward Florida’s West Coast.
“Our first priority is ensuring the safety of delegates, alternates, guests, members of the media attending the Republican National Convention and citizens of the Tampa Bay area,” Reince Priebus, the chairman of the Republican National Committee, said in a statement.
...“Officials have predicted participants may encounter severe transportation difficulties due to sustained wind and rain.”
The convention will officially open on Monday but will immediately recess until Tuesday afternoon at a time to be determined later, Mr. Priebus said. -NY Times
Republican National Convention President and CEO Bill Harris made the following statement: "Our chief priority is the safety of the residents of Florida, of those visiting the Convention, and all those in Gulf Coast states who may be impacted by Tropical Storm Isaac. We have been working closely with the campaign, the party, and state and local officials for months to ensure a successful, enjoyable convention. Federal, state and local officials assure us that they are prepared to respond, if needed, and the scheduling changes we are announcing today will help ensure the continued safety of all participants - our foremost concern. We are also committed to keeping the delegates and guests of the convention well informed about the situation, and we will continue providing updates in the hours and days ahead."
Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus made the following statement: "Due to the severe weather reports for the Tampa Bay area, the Republican National Convention will convene on Monday August 27th and immediately recess until Tuesday afternoon, August 28th. After consulting with Governor Scott, NOAA and local emergency management officials, we are optimistic that we will begin an exciting, robust convention that will nominate the Romney-Ryan ticket.
11:00 Update: The track continues to move slightly west. Tampa has a 65% chance of tropical storm winds, but only a 3% chance of hurricane winds. If the storm strengthens and hits the gulf coast on Tuesday night as a Cat 2 or Cat 3, which is possible, they have to cancel Tuesday as well.
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