Convention wraps up business early for today; chairman election is tomorrow

And just like that, the state GOP convention had adjourned its business for today – an hour and a half early. Things are going swimmingly – especially compared to the horrendous logjam that halted the party’s last confab two years ago.

Before it wrapped up, the convention heard a report from National Committeeman Damond Watkins and National Committeewoman Cindy Siddoway. Watkins reported that at the upcoming GOP national convention, the security perimeter around the meeting location is a mile wide, creating huge logistics problems for lodging and so forth. As a result, “Idaho’s delegation is about eight miles out from the convention hall,” Watkins said. “California is over an hour from downtown Cleveland.”

State Party Chairman Steve Yates told the group that tonight’s “Western BBQ” will feature “a good personal friend of mine,” conservative philanthropist Foster Friess, “who has a wonderful faith journey to share, among other things.” Yates said that will address one of this year’s convention’s four themes, faith, family, freedom and firearms. He also urged attendees to take advantage of the firearms practice and training, which any can do for a fee; it’s right off the convention floor.

Tomorrow, he noted, a luncheon will honor the congressional delegation, and feature speaker Buck Sexton, a conservative radio host. “He’s guest-hosting for Rush Limbaugh next week, and we get him on Saturday,” Yates said. “So hopefully that will be a fun time.”

Tomorrow’s agenda includes a general session from 9:30 to noon that will include votes on changes in rules, platform planks and resolutions; and an afternoon general session from 2-3:30 that includes elections for party offices including state chair.