2008 GOP Convention, Al Franken

HEY, THAT'S MY TURF!

GOP Convention To Be Held In Franken's Backyard






Even though it seems unlikely their decision was related to his probable candidacy, how do you think Al Franken felt today after learning that the 2008 GOP Convention will be held in St Paul?

Since the Air America Radio host seems to think he owns the state of Minnesota (especially in a political sense), it's hard to imagine this news went over well with him.

Sure, he'll likely spin this to his advantage, probably claiming that the extra coverage will boost his 2008 US Senate chances.

At the same time, though, it shows that the Republican Party has made the upper Midwest region a top priority for this incredibly important election.

In addition, a large opposition presence in Franken's backyard could take attention away from a person who is clearly addicted to it.


Worst of all, this action bumps a potential Democrat Party convention in the Twin Cities, one that would have showcased Franken on his home turf, providing a major advantage.

One can imagine a major Frankensnit occuring as we speak.

From the AP, via the Washington Post:

By LIZ SIDOTI

WASHINGTON -- Republicans will hold their 2008 presidential convention in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis-St. Paul, choosing a location in the politically pivotal Midwest.

Party and state officials announced the selection Wednesday. The convention is slated for Sept. 1-4, 2008.

"This is fantastic news," Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty said. "We're very, very pleased."

Losing out were New York City, Cleveland and a joint bid from Tampa and St. Petersburg, Fla., other cities that had sought the convention.

The four-day event will be held at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minn., a concert venue and the home of the National Hockey League's Minnesota Wild.

Democrats also had been considering holding their convention in the Twin Cities but the Republican announcement left Democrats with two competing cities to choose from _ New York and Denver.

By picking the Twin Cities for 2008, the GOP will ensure plenty of news coverage in media markets in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa _ all battleground states in the 2004 election and ones expected to be competitive in the next presidential race.

"The heartland of America," said Sen. Norm Coleman, R-Minn. "Whoever wins those states is going to be the next president of the United States."

Minnesota had been seen by some as an unlikely host, with just 10 electoral votes and the nation's longest streak of voting for Democratic presidential candidates.

Photo: Jim Mone, AP - Images: Pete at IHillary and David A Lunde

Technorati tags: al franken gop convention 2008 minnesota politics democrats republicans