U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Miami, may not have been elevated to the long-speculated role of a vice presidential candidate, but he will still get to play a prominent role at the Republican National Convention.
RNC Chairman Reince Priebus announced Tuesday that Rubio will introduce Mitt Romney for his acceptance speech on Thursday, Aug. 30, as soon as the former Massachusetts governor is nominated for president.
With the announcement of Rubios part at the convention, the Republican National Committee continued promotion of Florida officials at the Tampa event later this month, even though the Sunshine States delegates remain at half strength and have been forced to reside in a hotel a good haul from the convention center.
"We are excited to nominate Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan and restore great leadership to our country, Rubio stated in a release. Future generations of Americans depend on the hard work we will do in the weeks and months ahead, and I know that together, we will be successful in changing Washington and putting leaders in place who are committed to creating more jobs and opportunities for our people."
Rubios key spot on the national stage 38.9 million watched Sen. John McCains acceptance speech at the GOP convention in 2008 -- will come at a crowning moment that will have been preceded in the days before the roll call vote of delegates byFlorida Gov. Rick Scott, former Gov. Jeb Bush and Attorney General Pam Bondi on the dais.
Bondi will be getting headliner time during the convention that kicks off Aug. 27.
In the announcement for Rubio, Priebus called Rubio one of America's most dynamic and inspiring leaders.
"Senator Rubio is a proven leader and a man of true character, and it is fitting that he will take on such an important role at our convention in his home state, Priebus stated in the release. Throughout his career, he has shown true dedication to constitutional principles, fiscal responsibility and free enterprise. As the son of immigrants, he has witnessed the promise of the American Dream firsthand and has worked to secure that promise for future generations."
The national party also announced that New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie will be the keynote speaker at the convention.
"He has fearlessly tackled his state's most difficult challenges, while looking out for hard-working taxpayers, Priebus said of Christie. He is a leader of principle and conviction, and I am excited to hear him address the Republican National Convention as our keynote speaker. Governor Christie will make the case for America's Comeback Team and will rally our party and country in support of the Romney-Ryan ticket.
Reach Jim Turner at jturner@sunshinestatenews.com or at (772) 215-9889.
