Bush
St. Paul, Minn. — The crowd’s energy was in full swing at Xcel Energy Center during the Republican National Convention on Tuesday, even if it was a day late.
And all eyes at the convention zeroed in on the large TV screens after 9 p.m. as President Bush appeared via satellite. The delegation gave the satellite appearance a standing ovation, cheering into the first words of his speech.
Bush talked for about 10 minutes, briefly addressing Hurricane Gustav and the situation in the Gulf Coast, before moving on to discuss presumptive Republican nominee John McCain’s qualifications to be president.
He made references to decisions he made while in office, such as reviewing intelligence briefings and standing in the ruins of buildings knocked down by killers.
“John McCain’s life has prepared him to make those choices,” Bush said.
“He is ready to lead this nation.”
On Monday, only official business was conducted because of the effect Hurricane Gustav was having on the Gulf Coast. Other speakers on Tuesday included Sen. Joe Lieberman, I-Conn., former Sen. Fred Thompson and an encore speech by Laura Bush.
Some Michigan Republican party members hoped to see the 43rd president speak in person.
“I’d much rather see him in person,” said Scott Hummel, a delegate representing District 8. “But this’ll do.”
Michigan Republican Party Chairman Saul Anuzis said he was a little disappointed Bush didn’t physically address the delegation.
“I think it would have been nice to thank him for two great terms in office, for all he’s done for the party,” Anuzis said.
“He went through some tough times, but he’s still a favorite of many here. It would have been a great honor to be able to honor him, but he’s doing what he has to do.”
Though there has been speculation that McCain has been trying to distance himself from Bush and his administration, many party representatives felt it was appropriate that Bush address the delegation.
“He’s our leader,” said Linda Tarver, a Michigan delegate from District 8. “I know he has a low popularity rating, but we love him. It’s not inappropriate at all for our president, for our Republican president, to address us.”
Delegates acknowledged Bush’s low approval ratings, but still defended the president.
“He’s been our leader for eight years,” Hummel said.
“Despite what some people might think of him, and his popularity ratings, it’s still important for him to close out his presidency with an address to us.”
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