Q: When and where will the convention take place?

The 2008 Republican National Convention will be held in Minneapolis-Saint Paul from September 1-4.

Q: Why and how was Minneapolis-Saint Paul selected for the convention?

After a thorough site selection process, the host cities were chosen for their vibrant communities, outstanding hotels and event venues, and enthusiastic cooperation from local officials and residents alike.

In January 2006, the Republican National Committee (RNC) announced the members of the Site Selection Committee responsible for making location recommendations for the 2008 Republican Convention. The Minneapolis-Saint Paul Host Committee (MSP2008) did an exceptional job and presented the strongest overall bid among the cities considered.

In September 2006, it was announced that the Site Selection Committee had voted to recommend Minneapolis-Saint Paul. The full RNC voted on the recommendation in January, 2007 and the 39th Republican National Convention will be held in Minnesota from September 1-4, 2008.

Q: What is the economic benefit to the host cities?

In connection with the 2008 Republican National Convention, new jobs will be created, economic activity will be generated, and an estimated 45,000 visitors will travel to Minneapolis-Saint Paul. The host cities are projected to receive an estimated $150-$160 million positive economic boost.

Q: What facilities will be used for the convention?

The convention site is the Xcel Energy Center located in downtown Saint Paul. The neighboring Saint Paul RiverCentre convention center will also be utilized during the convention. Numerous other Minneapolis-Saint Paul venues are being considered for additional convention events. Additionally, convention staff is in process of contracting with nearly 100 hotels in Saint Paul, Minneapolis, and Bloomington.

Q: How is the convention funded?

The Federal Election Commission provides both the Republican and Democrat Conventions with $16.3 million in federal funding. The convention's remaining costs are met by the Host Committee.

Q: What is the Committee on Arrangements?

The Committee on Arrangements (COA) is a committee of the Republican National Committee. The COA's mission is to plan for and manage the 2008 Republican National Convention. The Committee on Arrangements is prohibited from raising funds for the convention, and is, by law, a separate entity from the Host Committee. The Committee on Arrangements is chaired by Republican National Committee Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson.

Q: Who manages the day-to-day operations of the convention?

Maria Cino, convention president and CEO, manages the day-to-day operations of the 2008 Republican National Convention. In this role, Ms. Cino serves as the primary liaison with state and local officials, community leaders, and other interested parties. She currently oversees convention staffers already based in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area. Over the coming year, that number will eventually grow to more than 150. 

Q: What is the Host Committee?

The Minneapolis-Saint Paul 2008 Host Committee is a non-profit organization comprised of business, community and political leaders that will guide the Minneapolis-Saint Paul preparations for the 2008 Republican National Convention.   

In August 2007, the Host Committee announced that Douglas Leatherdale would serve as chairman. Upon his appointment, Mr. Leatherdale said that he looks "forward to working with the Governor, Senators, Mayors and members of the Committee on Arrangements in planning for a memorable and successful event."

Q: Has the Republican National Convention ever been held in Minnesota?

Yes, 2008 will mark the second time the Republican Party has convened in Minnesota. Minneapolis hosted the 10th Republican National Convention in 1892, where Republicans nominated Benjamin Harrison.

Notably, 1892 marked the first time women were seated at a Republican National Convention and the first time a Republican National Convention was addressed by a woman. Therese A. Jenkins and Cora Carleton, alternates from Wyoming, were the first women to be officially seated at a Republican National Convention. J. Ellen Foster, chairman of the Women's Republican Association of the United States, addressed the crowd in Minneapolis and declared in her speech, "We are here to help you, and we have come to stay."

Q: What security precautions will be taken to protect the convention and residents of Minneapolis-Saint Paul?

The United States Department of Homeland Security has designated the convention a National Special Security Event, which means the United States Secret Service (U.S.S.S.) leads security planning. Convention staff is working closely with the U.S.S.S. and law enforcement personnel from all levels of government to ensure a safe and successful event. Every effort is also being made to keep local merchants open for business and area traffic running smoothly.

Q: What will the program be for the convention?

The themes and program of the 2008 Republican National Convention will showcase the unity and momentum of the Republican Party. Program details will be released in the coming months.

Q: Will there be volunteers the week of the convention?

Absolutely. Volunteers are critical to the success of every convention, and we are hoping that approximately 8,000 volunteers will take part in the 2008 Republican National Convention. Convention staff will be working closely with the Host Committee in the months to come to develop a system for recruiting the team who will play crucial roles in the areas of transportation, information services, hospitality and special events. For more information about volunteering please email the Host Committee at volunteer@msp2008.com.

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