Ahead of Isaac, Wisconsin Republicans leave for Tampa

MILWAUKEE -- With Tropical Storm Isaac making a final turn towards the U.S., members of the Wisconsin delegation for the Republican National Convention took off from Milwaukee this weekend, ahead of the week's festivities.

"We are optimistic we are going to weather this storm.  The storm can't dampen our enthusiasm for this election," state senator Alberta Darling said.

Delegates made sure to pack their fair share of rain gear ahead of the approaching storm, but don't think it will affect what happens inside.

"I'm sure they have things well in control, so I'm sure we'll be fine," delegate Tyler Vorpagel said.

The convention will have plenty of Badger State influence. Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker is expected to speak on Tuesday, and Wisconsin congressman and newly appointed Romney VP candidate Paul Ryan on Wednesday.  The convention was organized under the leadership of Kenosha native and GOP committee chair Reince Priebus.

"This focus is on Wisconsin because we are at the epicenter of this election with Wisconsin now running almost even with the president. We are just very excited and we know that we are going to turn this state around in November," Darling said.

The convention begins on Monday and will end on Thursday.  More than four thousand delegates and alternates from all 50 states and U.S. regions will officially decide who will appear on the Republican ticket.

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