Politico is among several news organizations reporting that the initial night of the Republican National Convention in Tampa is being cancelled.
Concerns about Tropical Storm Isaac is behind the decision.
2nd UPDATE: 7:24 p.m. EDT The decision to cancel was the correct one. While the storm track suggests right now the brunt of the storm is going to miss Tampa, the same track indicates that the Florida Keys will be hit hard and as early as tomorrow night. Yes, Tampa might miss the worst of the storm, but no politician would want to be seen in a raucous crowd in the same state.
1st UPDATE: 6:50 p.m. EDT: RNC has released following statement:
Republican National Convention President and CEO Bill Harris made the following statement: “Our chief priority is the safety of the residents of Florida, of those visiting the Convention, and all those in Gulf Coast states who may be impacted by Tropical Storm Isaac. We have been working closely with the campaign, the party, and state and local officials for months to ensure a successful, enjoyable convention. Federal, state and local officials assure us that they are prepared to respond, if needed, and the scheduling changes we are announcing today will help ensure the continued safety of all participants – our foremost concern. We are also committed to keeping the delegates and guests of the convention well informed about the situation, and we will continue providing updates in the hours and days ahead.”
Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus made the following statement: “Due to the severe weather reports for the Tampa Bay area, the Republican National Convention will convene on Monday August 27th and immediately recess until Tuesday afternoon, August 28th. After consulting with Governor Scott, NOAA and local emergency management officials, we are optimistic that we will begin an exciting, robust convention that will nominate the Romney-Ryan ticket.”