Georgians optimistic as Isaac soaks RNC

TAMPA, Fla. — Georgia Republicans who made the trek to Tampa, Fla. remained focused on their political goal, despite steady wind and rain from Tropical Storm Isaac.

The outer bands of the storm, which already forced Republicans to postpone their national convention until Tuesday, arrived in the Tampa Bay area Sunday as many delegates started to take part in party business.

Channel 2 Action News talked to Gov. Nathan Deal about the storm, and the sudden change in plans, after he addressed his state party members at their hotel.

“I think it has obviously changed the schedule but I don’t think it has dampened the spirits of the delegates who are here,” Deal said.

Deal said the convention will begin as scheduled on Monday afternoon, but after some small official business it would adjourn until Tuesday.

Debbie Dooley, a delegate who is also a leader with the Tea Party Patriots said Isaac is just a minor setback for Georgians in Tampa to support Mitt Romney.

“The attitude of the delegates here from Georgia is that we’re ready to go on with the business of the convention and nominate the next President of the United States.”

Alec Poitevint, convention chairman and former Georgia GOP chairman, said postponing the first day of events was the right call.

"I think when you err on the side of safety your concern about the people, not only about the people attending the convention but Florida, and having the flexibility to do what is right," Poitevint said.

Republican officials told Channel 2’s Lori Geary the biggest concern is the people in the path of the storm in other states and they have not ruled out extending the convention if there is another delay or if Tropical Storm Isaac causes major problems for residents along the Gulf Coast.

Stay with Channel 2 Action News and WSBTV.com throughout the week for continuing coverage of the Republican National Convention. You can also get minute by minute developments on Twitter @WSBVote.

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