Laura Bush Convention Speech

- George W. Bush and Dick Cheney will not appear at the convention
- Republican Convention has been "muted" in recognition of Gustav
- Appeared in tandem with Cindy McCain
- Introduced video featuring Gulf State governorsPolitico: Laura Bush, Cindy McCain to address convention tonight (September 1, 2008)

First Lady Laura Bush spoke on the opening night of the 2008 Republican National Convention in Minnesota. That morning, she met and had breakfast with the delegates from Louisiana along with Cindy McCain, the wife of Republican presidential candidate John McCain. Her remarks during the convention were focused on providing assistance to the victims of Hurricane Gustav, and she appeared on the stage together with Cindy McCain.Los Angeles Times: Laura Bush and Cindy McCain comfort delegates... (September 1, 2008)
Scaled Back Convention

Though there was some talk of delaying the Republican Convention altogether in light of the impact of Hurricane Gustav, instead it was decided that the event would simply be "muted" or "scaled back," and would focus on providing relief for those affected by the tragedy.AFP: Cindy McCain, Laura Bush to address convention on storm (September 1, 2008) The opening night speech was initially going to be delivered by Laura Bush's husband, President George W. Bush, who has since decided not to appear, to better focus on Hurricane Gustav relief efforts.
Encouraging Words from Mrs. Bush

"We can't believe that just three years almost to the date and another hurricane is coming in. We're all praying that the damage will not be that bad, that people will be able to get right back home. We're all praying. I know you can do it again."Los Angeles Times: Laura Bush and Cindy McCain comfort Louisiana delegates in Minneapolis (September 1, 2008)