MILWAUKEE — The Republican Nation Convention is preparing to kick off their convention in Charlotte, North Carolina. But some Wisconsin RNC delegates are still not sure how they will be taking part in the big event.
“I have been a delegate since 1996, so doing some quick math it's probably about 6 times or so,” said Bob Spindell, an RNC Wisconsin delegate from Milwaukee.
“Imagine a rock concert for policy, that’s kind of what it feels like. You are separated by state and you are there with fellow Wisconsinites,” said former Republican Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch, who also formerly served as a delegate.
Kleefisch says a lot of work is done during the day, including deciding policy and the party platform. That work will still go on. However, Wisconsin and the other states are only allowed to send a handful of delegates to Charlotte.
“We are sending a delegation right now. I just talked to my chairman who is on his way right now to North Carolina and so I think they still have a lot of work to do,” said Kleefisch.
The rest of the delegates, including Spindell, have to stay behind and attend virtually.
“At this point in time, the convention committee has been far behind. There’s no information at this point in time as to what they are going to do,” said Spindell.
Spindell wants to take part in the daily work, which includes selecting the party’s platform. He says it's the job delegates were elected for.
“[The delegates] have to convince the people in their district to vote for them. It’s a lot of work and a lot of effort,” said Spindell.
However, he has already completed one of his jobs, which is to elect the Republican Nominee for President, President Donald Trump. Spindell says he heard from the RNC that there are going to be virtual meetings during the week. He hopes to still take part in selecting the party’s platform virtually.
“Its a very exciting time. It's important not only for the delegates but for the people back home,” said Spindell.
Local Republicans Party officers and delegates are planning to host watch parties. Spindell says he plans to attend the watch parties.
