The GOP convention will hold its fifth and final session for delegates tonight.
By Nikki Cyter and Stacy Humes-Schulz
The Summer Pennsylvanian
Texas Governor George W. Bush is poised to accept the presidential nod from the Republican Party tonight as the culmination of four days of convention activities.
State by state, the convention's over 2,000 delegates have nominated Bush in a three-day roll call that began on Monday, the opening day of the GOP convention.
After being introduced by his wife of almost 36 years, Dick Cheney accepted his party's nomination to be Bush's running mate as the candidate for vice president at the First Union Center last night.
"I am honored by your nomination and I accept it," Cheney declared, greeted by the enthusiastic applause of the delegates.
Cheney, who made special note of thanking his home state of Wyoming, continued in acknowledging the influence of those presidents who preceeded him.
And Cheney's speech marked a turning point in the so-far-overwhelmingly positive convention. Much of his acceptance was focused on attacking the current Democratic administration.
"They will offer more lectures and legalisms and carefully worded denials," Cheney said. "We offer a better way and stiff dose of truth."
The delegates have spent the last several days enjoying a slew of convention-related activities, hearing from politicians, community activists and public officials alike.
South Philadelphia's First Union Center has been transformed to a veritable center of red, white and blue, with nets of balloons ready to be released onto the delegates upon Bush's acceptance tonight.
The delegates themselves adorn the colors of the flag in their campaign t-shirts, buttons and hats, with many waiving homemade signs demonstrating their commitment to their nominee.
While last night largely focused on Cheney's acceptance, and tonight will highlight Bush, the opening sessions mainly surrounded two issues: education and international security.
Monday night, the delegates, alternates and their guests listened to numerous speeches on education, including addresses by Texas First Lady Laura Bush and retired General Colin Powell.
"As first lady, I will make early child development one of my priorities," Mrs. Bush -- a former librarian and teacher -- said in a speech devoted to the importance of literacy. She also championed her husband, noting that "he'll set great goals, and he'll work tirelessly to achieve them."
Monday night was a family affair for the Bushes, with former President George Bush and Barbara Bush looking down on the convention floor from seats on the sidelines.
The Texas governor joined his wife, parents and two twin daughters at the First Union Center via a live telecast from Ohio, where he is on the home stretch while campaigning towards the convention.
"I'm on my way to Philadelphia!" he said to the uproariously cheering delegates and guests. "I cannot wait to stand by you on Thursday night and tell America how I want to use these good times for great purposes."
On Tuesday, the GOP transitioned to focus on the military and foreign affairs, with Arizona senator and former presidential hopeful John McCain addressing the delegates in a strong endorsement of Bush.
"If you believe that patriotism is more than a soundbite and public servie should be more than a photo-op, then vote for Governor Bush," McCain said. McCain, who won seven primaries before Bush emerged as the ultimate victor, released his delegates last Sunday.
And last night, the convention focused on addressing the issues of young Americans, promoting education and stressing technological advancement.
Two young CEO's of Internet start-up companies were invited to the podium to speak of their support of Bush, mentioning that the 2000 Republican convention is the first ever to be simultaneously web-cast on the net.
Latin-sensation John Secada entertained the crowds with two selections. And during his ballad, delegates could be seen linking arms and swaying to the music in a sea of cowboy hats and pro-Bush posters.
As the third night of the convention drew to a close, Cheney stood triumphantly in front a crowd chanting "no more Gore."
"The wheel has turned and it is time for them to go," he said of the current administration. "With your help, George W. will defeat this vice president and I will replace him."
