Governor Palin has a place in history as the first Republican woman to answer the call of vice president and her absence as a speaker at the Tampa convention would not bode well. In a political environment with accusations of gender disparity coupled with tensions amongst sundry groups within the Republican party, speakers who can unite the party are in need.
While years ago conventions were contentious venues where a party’s presidential candidate would be chosen, in recent years, conventions have been used as a catalyst to solidify a party behind their candidate. The last convention to actually choose a candidate was in 1976 when Ronald Reagan narrowly lost to incumbent Gerald Ford.
To win back the White House will require a concerted effort to mobilize self identified republicans, independents, and members of the tea party. It will take everyone "heavy lifting": those enthralled by Governor Palin, in awe of Mr. Cain, and devoted to Congressman Paul. As Speaker Gingrich mentions “this is a team sport,” and the critical ability of this convention to unite all factions of the Republican party will determine our success or our failure in the fall.
Let us not forget the electric convention hall atmosphere four years ago when the first Republican woman vice presidential candidate gave her nomination acceptance speech. The bench mark has been set.
