Eastern Iowans to play a role in Republican National Convention

Workers are setting the stage for the 2012 Republican National Convention.

More than 2,000 delegates and just about the same number of alternate delegates are descending upon Tampa, Florida. The convention kicks off on Monday (though activities Monday will consist of a quick gaveling-in and an immediate recess, due to concerns about Tropical Storm Isaac) and lasts through Thursday.

The southern scene is decked out in red white and blue, but you can't have politics without a bit of Iowa. People from across the Hawkeye state will take part. A handful are flying to Florida from Eastern Iowa.

Linn County Supervisor Brent Oleson is one of the state's delegates.

"We're very much looking forward to it and influencing the platform and supporting our nominee,” Oleson said.

While Mitt Romney is the presumptive nominee, Oleson is among a group of Iowans planning to show support for Congressman Ron Paul.

"A lot of us intend on going down there and casting our ballot, at least, to nominate Congressman Ron Paul and try to influence the platform of the Republican Party to talk about more libertarian issues that we care about,” Oleson said.

Johnson County GOP Chairman Bob Anderson will also be among the Republican crowd as a delegate.

"It's a chance to hear both Governor Romney and Congressman Ryan but also many other Republican, governors, senators and congressmen and others,” Anderson said.

Anderson is proud to support Mitt Romney. He said this convention continues to prove the importance of Iowans in the political process, starting with the first in the nation caucuses.

"Iowans play a role in that we started the process, and Iowans will play a role in that we finished the process,” Anderson said.

By the end of the convention, with the help of Iowa delegates, the GOP will officially have a candidate to represent the party on the ticket in November.

Tropical Storm Isaac will cut down the days of the convention. Party leaders decided to begin the event, as planned, on Monday. They will then, however, adjourn until Tuesday, hoping to keep residents, visitors and delegates safe.