Blake Burman joined the FOX Business Network (FBN) as a Washington correspondent in April 2015. But even before that, Burman was well known in Florida for his work at WBBH in Fort Myers and WSVN in Miami where he covered politics.
With the Republican convention starting Monday in Cleveland, Sunshine State News caught up with Berman to get his stake on what’s at stake as the GOP gets ready to nominate Donald Trump.
SSN: What do you see as the most important goals for Donald Trump and the GOP at the convention?
Burman: One of the most important goals for Trump has to be successfully introducing Mike Pence, his running mate. Choosing a running mate is probably the biggest decision a nominee makes.
SSN: Conventions are often staged in swing states as the parties look ahead to November and it’s tough to see a road to the White House for Trump if he doesn’t carry Ohio. Does having the convention in Cleveland boost Trump’s chances in the Buckeye State?
Burman: Who knows how much it will help. That can only be answered after the convention takes place and how its perceived. Locations don't always equate to success, though. Just look to 2012. The Republicans held their convention in Florida and lost that state. The Democrats held theirs in North Carolina and lost, too.
SSN: From William Jennings Bryan to FDR to Barack Obama, up and coming politicians have used national conventions as a launching pad. Are there any specific potential rising stars you have your eye on in Cleveland?
Burman: Not entirely sure (yet) this counts as potential rising stars, but I'm interested to hear Trump's kids speak at the convention. They've been at the forefront of his campaign, and are expected to speak during the convention. What a potential launching point for them politically for years to come.
SSN: Trump and his team are planning to feature more speakers from outside the realm of politics at the convention. Do you think that will increase viewership?
Burman: Potentially, but one thing has been very clear over the last year: Trump's campaign is focused on Trump. Celebrities, athletes, etc. will undoubtedly bring extra viewers tuning in to the prime time coverage, but, like the debates, I think the bottom line is the draw will be Trump and what he might do or say next.
SSN: What do you see as the major potential pitfalls for Trump and the GOP at the convention?
Burman: Trump is vowing a different kind of convention as you pointed out. He needs to put it together and pull it off, while also making it seem serious. The last thing he needs is for undecided voters to think the convention is another reality show featuring Trump. As for the GOP, the clear potential pitfall is unity. If high profile speakers (like Paul Ryan and Ted Cruz) give their speeches without seeming to completely embrace Trump and his candidacy, it would raise more questions about fractures within the party. It's all going to be exciting!
