GOP curtails meeting, focuses on storm relief

The Clarion-Ledger, 9/2/8

The Republican National Convention curtailed its first session Monday with first lady Laura Bush and Cindy McCain voicing concern for Gulf Coast hurricane victims and urging donations to relief efforts.

“Our first priority for today and in the coming days is to ensure the safety and well-being of those living in the Gulf Coast region,” Laura Bush told convention delegates here.

“The effect of Hurricane Gustav is just now being measured. When such events occur, we are reminded that first, we are all Americans – and that our shared American ideals will always transcend political parties and partisanship,” she said.