Convention Daybook: Paul Ryan Takes the Stage – Brought to you by CIT
Welcome to National Journal’s Convention Daybook, which provides a floor schedule and a list of major events at the Republican National Convention each day.
FLOOR SCHEDULE:
Some of the best-known names in Republican politics will dominate the floor action today, from Sen. John McCain to former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. But the main event will come tonight, when Rep. Paul Ryan, the Republican nominee for vice president, takes the stage to give what arguably the most important speech of his career. Here are today’s highlights:
7 p.m.
Mitch McConnell, Senate minority leader
Rand Paul, Kentucky senator
8 p.m.
John McCain, Arizona senator
John Thune, South Dakota senator
Rob Portman, Ohio senator
9 p.m.
Tim Pawlenty, former Minnesota governor
Mike Huckabee, former Arkansas governor
10 p.m.
Condoleezza Rice, former secretary of State
Susana Martinez, New Mexico governor
Paul Ryan, vice presidential nominee
TODAY’S EVENTS
For the most up-to-date information, please visit National Journal’s events page, log in to NJ’s mobile apps, or contact event organizers.
7-12 A.M. – Need a Breather?
Sometimes even the most caffeinated journalists and politicos need to take a breath. The Huffington Post and Off the Mat, Into the World host an “oasis” for convention-goers, featuring yoga classes, massages, sleep consultations, and healthy snacks. All together now: Om. Aja Channelside, 290 S. Meridian Ave. Free.
8 A.M. – Prairie State Breakfast
Speaker John Boehner represents Ohio, but he’s hanging with delegates from neighboring state Illinois this morning at the Prairie State’s delegation breakfast. Puerto Rico Gov. Luis Fortuno and Ben Ginsberg, senior counsel to Romney/Ryan, will also attend. Sheraton Sand Key Resort, Grand Ballroom, 1160 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater Beach. Invitation only. Contact: gculp@ilgop.org.
8-10 A.M. – Playbook Breakfast
Politico’s Playbook breakfast series continues with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour, and Republican adviser Liz Cheney. Rivergate Tower, 400 N. Ashley Drive. Free, but RSVP required. Contact: awilliams@politico.com
9-10 A.M. – Government and Technology
This Bloomberg/Google breakfast ties together three of today’s hottest topics: The Internet, jobs, and the economy. Street Smart anchor Trish Regan will moderate this discussion of how government policies can help or hinder growth in high-tech industries. Panelists include Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin and American Action Forum President Doug Holtz-Eakin. 601 S. Harbour Blvd., Suite 200. RSVP: conventions@bloomberg.net
9-10:30 A.M. – The Hill Breakfast
Drop by The Hill’s morning review breakfast, led by its editorial Election Team. Holland & Knight Library, 100 N. Tampa Street, 42nd floor. Invitation only.
9:30-11 A.M. – The Race For Congress
Will Republicans be able to capture Congress in 2012? National Journal, The Atlantic, and CBS News host a briefing on the top Senate and House races of the cycle. Panelists include Sen. John Cornyn and Rep. Pete Sessions of Texas, NRCC Executive Director Guy Harrison, NRSC Executive Director Rob Jesmer, and Jennifer Duffy and David Wasserman of The Cook Political Report. Hotline Editor-in-Chief Reid Wilson and CBS News Senior White House Correspondent Bill Plante will moderate. Carne Chophouse, 1536 E. Seventh Ave. Free. Contact: abolding@theatlantic.com.
10 A.M. – Ann Visits the Playground
Here’s a chance for Ann Romney to show her first-lady skills: Mrs. Mitt will attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a therapeutic playground at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg. The playground is a “leave behind” project completed in honor of the GOP convention by the Credit Union National Association, National Journal and the League of Southeastern Credit Unions. ACH Therapeutic Playground, Corner of Sixth Street and Ninth Avenue South, St. Petersburg. Invitation only.
10-11:30 A.M. – Latino-Jewish Relations
Join AJC, members of Congress, and policy experts for a discussion of how the Latino and Jewish communities can work together to advance their shared interests. St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg. Free. Contact: blumem@ajc.org.
10-11:30 A.M. – The GOP in Tomorrow’s America
You won’t want to miss this one: National Journal, Univision News, and ABC News have partnered up to produce “The Republican Party in Tomorrow’s America: The Hispanic Surge and the New Landscape of American Politics.” Panelists include Texas Gov. Rick Perry, Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart of Florida, and Republican strategists Whit Ayres and Ana Navarro. National Journal’s Ronald Brownstein, Univision News’ Jorge Ramos, and ABC News’ Diane Sawyer will moderate. University Club of Tampa, 201 N. Franklin St., Suite 3800. Invitation only, but members of the media may RSVP to register@nationaljournal.com. Click here to view the livestream.
10 A.M.-Noon – Young Republicans for Marriage Rights
Log Cabin Republicans and Freedom to Marry are hosting a brunch to highlight the young conservatives who believe in marriage rights for all. Special guests include Margaret Hoover, CNN contributor, and Andrew Langer, president of the Institute for Liberty. Holland & Knight, 100 N. Tampa St., Suite 4100. E-mail RSVP@logcabin.org to register.
10 A.M.-Noon – Electoral Dysfunction
Hit the road with political humorist Mo Rocca in this film about how voting works -- or doesn’t -- in America. Organizers of the 2012 IMPACT Film Festival describe Electoral Dysfunction as “irreverent, engaging, eye-opening, and nonpartisan.” Channelside Cinemas, 615 Channelside Drive. Free. Tickets available here.
10 A.M.-Noon – Energy Opportunities With Newt U
Ah, late August. If you listen closely, you can hear the sound of No. 2 pencils being sharpened across the country. Today’s edition of “Newt U,” a series of workshops hosted by former Speaker Newt Gingrich, will focus on America’s energy opportunities. Wyndham Tampa West Shore, Royal Palm 3, 700 West Shore Blvd. The event is open to credentialed convention media and activists and party officials attending the convention.
10 A.M.-2 P.M. – Homeruns for Happy Kids
You don’t have to a baseball enthusiast to hit “Homeruns for Happy Kids,” a charitable event that will include batting practice, concessions, and tours of Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays. Proceeds will benefit The Rays Community Fund Grant Program. Tropicana Field, 1 Tropicana Dr., St. Petersburg. Free, but a donation to the charity is recommended. Register here. Contact: khuber@conventions2012.com.
11 A.M.-2:30 P.M. – African Americans and the GOP
Learn about the historic relationship between African Americans and the Republican Party at this forum cohosted by local GOP chapters and the Ebony Elephant Foundation. Forum tickets: $25. Tickets to the forum, plus a VIP lunch and reception: $150. Stetson University College of Law, 1401 61st St. South, Gulfport. Contact: khori@ebonyelephant.org.
11 A.M.-12:30 P.M. – Government and Innovation
Innovation is more than a campaign trail buzzword. The New York Times's Tom Friedman and Prime Policy Group Chairman Charlie Black will take part in a Bloomberg/Google lunch on how innovation is a key American differentiator and how government can help encourage innovation. 601 S. Harbour Blvd., Suite 200. RSVP: conventions@bloomberg.net.
11 A.M.-2 P.M. – Cheap Burgers and Beer
Yelp is a lifesaver for long slogs on the campaign trail (do you really want McDonalds again?). Yelp Tampa Bay is setting up pop-up lounges throughout the week to highlight local businesses. The company will provide special deals to those who check in with Yelp’s mobile app. Wednesday’s deal: cheap burgers and a free beer. Ragin’ Sports Bar and Grill, 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., Suite 140. Free and open to the public.
11 A.M.-2 P.M. – On the Dock by the Bay
Join members of the Senate and Congressional Western Caucuses for water sports and bayside fun (two words: volleyball courts). Crabby Bill’s at Rocky Point, 7770 W. Courtney Campbell Causeway. Contact: khuber@conventions2012.com.
11:30 A.M.-1:45 P.M. – Energy at a Crossroads
Calling for deregulation is easy. Achieving deregulation? Less so. The Wall Street Journal’s Stephen Moore moderates this panel discussion on energy policy, “Energy at a Crossroads: Which Path Will Washington Take?” which is hosted by the American Energy Alliance. Panelists include Sen. John Barrasso of Wyoming, Rep. Mike Pompeo of Kansas, and AEA’s Thomas Pyle. A buffet lunch will be served. Liberty Plaza, 180 S. Morgan St. Free. RSVP here.
Noon-1:30 P.M. – Energy and the Presidency
Politico is hosting a lunch conversation with energy experts and policy leaders. Speakers include energy entrepreneur T. Boone Pickens, Alliance to Save Energy’s Kateri Callahan, American Petroleum Institute’s Martin Durbin, Nuclear Energy Institute’s Alex Flint, and Solar Energy Industries Association’s Rhone Resch. Rivergate Tower, 400 N. Ashley Drive. RSVP required.
Noon-3 P.M. – Young Republicans Mixer
Savvy networkers know how to multitask. Mingle, play arcade games, and watch sports at this mixer, hosted by the Young Republicans National Federation. RSVPs get you two drinks, complimentary appetizers, and a one-hour game-play card. Game Time, 1600 E. Eighth Ave. RSVP here.
12:30-5:30 P.M. – What Is Working
“Opportunity: What Is Working--A Bipartisan Search for Solutions to the Jobs Crisis” has two components: It’s a luncheon, and it’s also a job-creation exhibition. The invitation-only lunch panel will be moderated by NBC’s Tom Brokaw and run 12:30-2:30 p.m. The free exhibition will showcase innovative ideas, small businesses, and entrepreneurs and run 2:30-5:30 p.m. Cuban Club of Tampa, 2010 N. Avenida Republica De Cuba.
1 P.M. – ‘Our Sacred Honor’ With Rick Santorum
Former Sen. Rick Santorum will introduce this screening of Our Sacred Honor, which walks through crucial moments in early American history. Citizens United Theater at Liberty Plaza, 180 South Morgan St. RSVP and photo ID required. Register online for free here. Contact: LaurenF@citizensunited.org.
1-2:30 P.M. – Energy in the Modern World
Energy pioneer T. Boone Pickens and Bloomberg Government energy analyst Rob Barnett will chew over energy policy and new industry opportunities. The interview will begin at 2 p.m. and be preceded by a casual lunch. 601 S. Harbour Blvd., Suite 200. RSVP: conventions@bloomberg.net.
1-4 P.M. – America’s Leadership in the World
A series of speakers will discuss GOP achievements in international development at “America’s Leadership in the World: Our Legacy, Our Future,” hosted by the International Republican Institute, U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, and ONE. Featured speakers include former White House Chief of Staff Joshua Bolten and foreign policy advisers to Mitt Romney. Centro Asturiano Theater, 1913 N. Nebraska Ave. Free. RSVP required: mbartlett@usglc.org.
1:30-3:30 P.M. – Health Care Town Hall
Join The Hill, the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, and health care experts for a town-hall forum on health care policy. The Italian Club of Tampa, 1731 E. Seventh Ave. Invitation only.
1:30-3 P.M. — Europeanization of the United States
A panel of European members of parliament will discuss the euro crisis and Europeanization of the United States in this panel called, “Hey America! Don’t take this road!” hosted by the YG Network. Woman Up! Pavilion, 615 Channelside Drive. Contact: info@ygnetwork.org.
1:30-3 P.M. — Wisconsin Boat Party
From Pierre-Auguste Renoir to Andy Samberg and T-Pain, boat parties have captured artists’ hearts and minds. Today, the Wisconsin delegation hosts its own boat party to honor former Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson. Yacht StarShip, 603 Channelside Drive. Free and open to the public.
2-3:30 P.M. — Women in Innovation
Celebrate the importance of women in innovation with this Global Women’s Innovation Network tea and champagne reception. Holland & Knight LLP, 100 N. Tampa St. #4100. Free for GlobalWIN board members, supporters and friends. Contact: 202-548-0021.
2-4 P.M. — ‘41’ Showing
41 is a documentary that tells President George H.W. Bush’s story in his own words. Part of the 2012 Impact Film Festival. Channelside Cinemas, 615 Channelside Drive. Free. Tickets available at impactfilmfund.org.
3-4 P.M. — Future of Journalism
The final installation of the three-day “Future of Journalism Symposium,” hosted by the Franklin Center for Government & Public Integrity, the Heritage Foundation, and the Leadership Institute, will cover how to find your audience online. Sheraton East Hotel, Cyprus Room, 10221 Princess Palm Ave. Register here.
3-4:30 P.M. — Conversations With the Next Generation
Join National Journal, The Atlantic, and Microsoft for “Conversations with the Next Generation.” This town hall will feature Josh Romney, StudentsFirst founder and CEO Michelle Rhee, Rep. Aaron Schock of Illinois, and other political, media, business, and policy leaders. NBC Special Correspondent Chelsea Clinton and Chief White House Correspondent Chuck Todd will join NJ’s own Jim Tankersley to moderate the discussion. Two and a Half Men star Angus T. Jones will be there. Will you? Improv Theatre, 1600 E. Eighth Ave. Invitation only. Students interested in attending should contact Katie Lovett at events@theatlantic.com.
3-6 P.M. — Wisconsin Tailgating Party
Who says tailgating is just for football games? The Wisconsin delegation is hosting a big party ahead of hometown hero Paul Ryan’s vice presidential nomination acceptance speech. Event planners are calling the party "A Tribute to Wisconsin." You may have heard it referred to as "the beer and brats bash." Liberty Plaza, 180 S. Morgan St. Free and open to the public.
3:30-5 P.M. — Grover Norquist College Lecture
Americans for Tax Reform President Grover Norquist will give college students a primer on the political process in this lecture at the University of South Florida (St. Petersburg), sponsored by the USFSP Office of International Affairs and the International Council of the Tampa Bay Region. Contact: 727-873-4985.
3:30-5 P.M. — Rick Santorum Rally
Hear ye, hear ye. “Calling all patriots!” says a flier for this rally, at which former Sen. Rick Santorum and wife Karen will throw their support behind Mitt Romney’s presidential bid. Liberty Plaza, 180 S. Morgan St. Free, but RSVP online required. Contact: 412-219-2012.
3:30-5:30 P.M. — International Reception
Join AJC for a reception featuring ambassadors and diplomats from Argentina, Norway, Israel, France, Malaysia and more. Mindy Solomon Gallery of Art, 124 Second Ave. NE, St. Petersburg. Free, but please RSVP: blumem@ajc.org.
3:45-5:30 P.M. — Cocktails With Tim Pawlenty
Join the Foreign Policy Initiative for cocktails and conversation with former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty. “Peace Through Strength: Restoring American Leadership in the World” will be moderated by William Kristol, founding editor of The Weekly Standard. Event will be followed by a cocktail reception with hors d’oeuvres. The Tampa Club, 101 E. Kennedy Blvd., Suite 4200. RSVP here.
4 P.M. — FreedomWorks Meet-and-Greet
You may have touched base through the FreedomWorks "FreedomConnector," but here’s a chance to meet FreedomWorks staff and activists in person. The organization’s president, Matt Kibbe, will be delivering remarks. Palma Ceia Golf Course & Country Club, 1601 S. MacDill Ave. RSVP here.
4 P.M. — Mike Huckabee Movie Screening
Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee will introduce this screening of The Gift of Life, an antiabortion documentary to be shown by Citizens United. Registration is free and online. Liberty Plaza. 180 S. Morgan St. Photo ID and RSVP required.
4-4:30 P.M. — Individual Freedom and the Internet
Got 30 minutes? You’ve got time to drop by a seminar of individual freedom and the internet, cohosted by Google and Bloomberg. 601 S. Harbour Blvd., Suite 200. RSVP: conventions@bloomberg.net.
4-6 P.M. — Israel’s Security
The Republican Jewish Coalition recognizes the U.S. leaders fighting for Israel's security at this reception. Delegates and alternates welcome. Crowne Plaza Hotel and Resort, Treasure Island Ballroom, 5303 W. Kennedy Blvd. Contact: grassroots@rjchq.org. Open to RJC members and convention delegates and alternates.
4-6 P.M. — Housing America’s Veterans
This National Association of Home Builders-sponsored reception, hosted by The Hill, will celebrate homebuilders’ contributions to housing veterans. The Italian Club of Tampa, 1731 E. Seventh Ave. Invitation only.
4-6:30 P.M. — Cuban Food and Cigars
Cuban food and fine cigars make a perfect welcome to Ybor City. This reception, hosted by the Credit Union National Association, features both. Grounds of GTE Federal Credit Union, 711 E. Henderson Ave. Free. RSVP: RNCRSVP@cuna.com.
4:30-6 P.M. — Young Voters and the Economy
Will a lackluster economy turn young voters into Republican voters? National Journal and The Atlantic will team up with Generation Opportunity to host a cocktail hour (and a half) of discussion to weigh the question. Carne Chophouse, 1536 E. Seventh Ave. RSVP required. Contact: abolding@theatlantic.com.
6-7 P.M. — Free Pony Party of America
The Free Pony Party of America doesn’t have its own convention, but it still galluped into Tampa. Vermin Supreme, performance artist and presidential candidate, will discuss bullhorn crowd de-escalation tactics with folks who stop by for this event. CL Space, 1911 N. 13th St., Suite W200. Free.
7-11 P.M. — Wednesday’s Main Speeches
Rep. Paul Ryan headlines today’s convention floor action when he speaks at the end of the night. Other highlights: Govs. Susana Martinez of New Mexico and Luis Fortuno of Puerto Rico, former Govs. Mike Huckabee of Arkansas and Tim Pawlenty of Minnesota, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, and Sens. Rob Portman of Ohio, Rand Paul of Kentucky, and John McCain of Arizona. Entertainment by The Katinas. Tampa Bay Times Forum, 401 Channelside Drive. Credentials required to attend.
7:30-10:30 P.M. — Cocktails, Courtesy of NJ
National Journal and The Atlantic offer a relaxed atmosphere to meet other convention stakeholders, watch a broadcast of the floor speeches, chat about the day’s events, and--of course--sip cocktails. Carne Chophouse, 1536 E. Seventh Ave. Invitation only.
9 P.M. — '80s and '90s Concert and Party
Lovers of '80s and '90s rock music are sure to think this party is all that and a bag of chips. Gregg Allman of the Allman Brothers Band and alt-rock trio Better than Ezra will perform, and there will be a video-game lounge on site provided by the Entertainment Software Association. The Ritz Ybor, 1503 E. Seventh Ave. By invitation.
10 P.M. — Maverick PAC Celebration
If you're an emerging young GOP leader--or just want to party like one--head over to Maverick PAC's convention celebration, Mav Bash. Rep. Aaron Schock of Illinois, Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, and other elected officials will be featured guests. Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, 400 N. Ashley Drive. RSVP: pasha@maverickpac.com.
10 P.M. — Kid Rock Concert
Wanna be a cowboy, baby? Belt out those lyrics along with Kid Rock at this concert in Liberty Plaza, sponsored by the American Action Network and Citizens Helping Heroes. 180 S. Morgan St. Invitation only.
10 P.M. — Veterans Benefit Concert
Honor female elected officials and aspiring women leaders while raising money for veterans at this party and benefit concert. Lifetime television network, Got Your 6, and Mission Continues are throwing a star-studded private event, featuring remarks from columnist Meghan McCain and a performance from country star Sara Evans. Who could ask for more? Glazer Children’s Museum, 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza. By invitation.
11 P.M.-2:30 A.M. — Southern Hospitality Party
You don't have to live below the Mason-Dixon line to have a great time at this after-party. Called “A Taste of Southern Hospitality,” the bash highlights Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, Arkansas, Tennessee, and the Carolinas. Raymond James Stadium, 4116 Himes Ave. Free and open to the public. Contact: 608-770-2819.
Convention Daybook is compiled by National Journal’s Catherine Hollander and Sophie Quinton. To provide information on events such as tips or updates, please contact schedule@nationaljournal.com
