Tampa Chosen to Host 2012 Republican National Convention

TAMPA, FL -- The Republican Party has announced that it has chosen Tampa as the site of its 2012 convention. The event will take place the week of Aug. 27. Tampa beat out Phoenix and Salt Lake City as potential sites for the pivotal convention that will take place in the midst of what is sure to be a hotly contested Presidential race. Florida currently holds 38 electoral votes, but will likely have 39 after the current census.

”We are looking forward to the work that lies ahead," Florida GOP chairman John Thrasher said in a statement. "I believe the best way we can do that is by working hard this summer and fall to get out the vote for our Republican slate of candidates."

Tampa will play host to the 2012 RNC Convention

This will be the third time Tampa hosts a Republican National Convention, having held the honor consecutively, in 1968 and 1972. Florida's role as a battleground state makes it attractive to both parties, and the RNC will undoubtedly look to capitalize on a national party presence in the state that close to the Presidential election.

A hurricane dampened the 2008 festivities, as sitting Republican President George Bush had to miss the event, giving his speech via satellite. Many of the opening-night festivities had to be canceled and several attendees' travel plans were interrupted.

While no Republican candidates have officially announced a 2012 run, it is widely assumed that both Mitt Romney and Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty will make bids. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich has also made no secret that he is considering running. After several strong straw poll showings, Ron Paul would also be a likely candidate, as might fellow 2008 candidate and former Arkansas Governor, Mike Huckabee.

Congressman Vern Buchanan, R-FLA, was elated that his state was chosen.

”This is an exciting opportunity for Tampa Bay to shine“ said Buchanan, who supported regional efforts to bring the national convention to Tampa. ”The convention will help give the local economy a boost and bring attention to the region’s many attractions“. 

The 2008 RNC Convention drew 45,000 to St. Paul

 
Buchanan noted a study that found the 2008 Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minnesota, had an economic impact of nearly $170 million and brought 45,000 people to that area, despite the hurricane woes.
 
”That is a lot of business for area hotels and restaurants,“ said Buchanan. ”I congratulate everyone who worked hard to make this happen.“