As the Republican National Convention officially begins today, local party leaders said they’re hoping to see the Republican delegates from across the country come together to do what’s best for America.

Though they’re not expecting any real surprises — and Monday’s schedule will be shortened to only conduct official business — local leaders said they are looking forward to listening to presidential candidate Sen. John McCain and his runningmate, Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.

McCain’s campaign manager announced Sunday there would be substantial changes to the convention’s program to help with Hurricane Gustav relief efforts. All program activities beyond official business that must be conducted in accordance with party rules would be canceled Monday. From then on they will be taken on a day-by-day basis.

“We are deeply concerned about the safety and welfare of the residents of the Gulf State region,” said Rick Davis, McCain’s campaign manager, in a news release. “Our top priority is to assist those who will be affected by Hurricane Gustav. This is not a time for politics or celebration; it is a time for us to come together as Americans and assist the residents of the Gulf States.”

Former District 27A Rep. Dan Dorman said he thought the choice to cancel the activities was a good one, though it is kind of a sad one for Minnesota in its opportunity to showcase the state.

“It would just have sent the wrong signal,” Dorman said. “To have that contrasted with a major hurricane, I think that was the right move.”

Dorman said assuming the rest of the convention goes as planned, he thinks the most interesting part of the convention will be watching reactions to the vice presidential pick of Palin.

Tiny Brandt, chairman of the Freeborn County Republicans, said he just hopes people work together to try and solve the problems the country is facing like the energy crisis.

“If we just continue to move forward and do what’s best for America under God,” Brandt said. “I do pray that we continue to follow the foundation of our country. As long as we do that, I’m going to be a happy camper.”

Dorman said he thought the Democratic National Convention this past week was as expected, with some interesting speeches. He heard some promises that were made that probably won’t be kept, but people will probably hear more of those promises made this week, too.

“It’s going to be an interesting election,” he said.

Brandt said he thought the Democratic convention was a time when the Democrats became more unified.

“They did a lot of coming together,” he said. “I feel they were happy with what they did.”

As far as he can see, he said, both conventions will be complimentary to what each party is about.