This post was written by Nathan Johnson, executive director of the King County Republican Party. His currently attending the Republican National Convention in St. Paul.

By Nathan Johnson

I'm seated with my delegation now for the beginning of our national convention. Tonight we will hopefully be hearing from two First Ladies, one current and one soon to be.

As things are about to get underway, I think I can speak for the entire state delegation in saying that our thoughts and prayers are with our friends in the Gulf Coast who are enduring Gustav. We are all thankful that the storm appears to be weakening and the levees continue to hold. Much of tonigh's agenda will be focused on providing us with ways to help with hurricane relief.

Much of this week will focus on the renewed and considerable role women will be playing with the GOP in this election year. All of this leading up to Governor Sarah Palin's marquee speech to a national audience on Wednesday. There is a lot of excitement here for the new Republican image that is firmly rooted in our shared conservative principles and true progress. The convention delegates appear united and anxious to begin today's proceedings.

The most impressive part of the convention so far is the incredible security presence surrounding the Excel Center. This being my first convention, some of the normal things will surely impress.

For anyone interested, the RNC is participating in the text2help program which allows you to give money to hurricane relief with a simple text message. Nearly all of the delegates participated this afternoon and I encourage you to do the same. Text the word GIVE (4483) to "2HELP" (24357) to make your $5 contribution.

All for now. More to come.

Nathan Johnson has been active in local politics for several years, holding a variety of political and public policy roles. He's worked as a research analyst specializing in health-care policy for the Evergreen Freedom Foundation, served as a field coordinator for Mike McGavick's U.S. Senate campaign during the 2006 election, and worked as a research analyst with the Senate Republican Caucus. He's currently executive director of the King County Republican Party. Nathan and his wife live in Everett.