2012 News: RNC Has Its Convention Date

The political class is in for a sweltering summer camp in 2012. The Republican National Committee has designated week of August 27, 2010 for its convention. That forces the Democrats to go earlier or later -- obviously -- which  may or may not have implications down the road, depending on how the Obama re-election campaign or the Dean campaign (kidding!...or am ?) finances its general. 

The convention will be held in Tampa, Salt Lake City or Phoenix. I agree with the folks at First Read: Phoenix is the frontrunner. Salt Lake City would actually be an attractive choice, and i disagree a bit with them about the Mormon angle. But Tampa? As much as this Floridian would like to see a good Florida convention again, the hurricane season beckons and seems to have placed a target on the sunshine state during that month. "Can the Republicans risk that?"  Probably not.  Phoenix, meanwhile, is incredibly hot and dry in August. The GOP likes that. It's in Arizona -- a state full of ex-California exurbanites disdainful of big government. Enjoy the Glendale shopping and spas, though, GOP delegates.

This article available online at:

http://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2010/03/2012-news-rnc-has-its-convention-date/36950/