Rallying around GOP

NEW YORK -- The first Republican National Convention to be held in New York began with a little home hospitality and ended with a packed house Monday. \n"My New York" was the theme of the beginning of the morning session, as New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and former mayor Ed Koch addressed the crowd. \nThe evening session featured the arrival of Vice President Dick Cheney and former President George H. W. Bush into Madison Square Garden as well as speeches by former New York Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik, Arizona Sen. John McCain and former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani. \nLed by convention chairman Ed Gillepsie, delegates, alternatives and guests filed into the Garden to begin the four-day event.\nKerik, McCain and Giuliani all focused their speeches around the lingering effects of 9-11. The three men spoke about homeland security, terrorism and the military and the affects the trio have on America. \nMcCain spoke about unity among parties, and how important it is to put beliefs aside to come together as one country in times of war. \n"All of us, despite the differences that enliven our politics, are united in the one big idea that freedom is our birthright and its defense is always our first responsibility," McCain said. "All other responsibilities come second.\n"We must not lose sight of that as we debate who among us should bare the greatest responsibility for keeping us safe and free. We must, whatever our disagreements, stick together in this great challenge of our time."\nMcCain went on to say that those in the military are "the very best of us."\nIn the middle of his speech, McCain made comments about "a disingenuous filmmaker," with Michael Moore seated in press row, the crowd responded loudly, only to cause a reaction from Moore. \nFollowing McCain, Giuliani spent most his speech talking about 9-11 and its aftermath. \nUsing his experiences from that Tuesday morning, the former mayor garnered standing ovations and chants of "Rudy."\nGiuliani and Kerik have been hailed here in New York because of their roles in the 9-11 attacks. \nMost Republicans have lumped Bush into that crowd as well.\n"In choosing a president, we really don't choose a Republican or a Democrat, a conservative or a liberal," Giuliani said. "We choose a leader."\nThe man who many feel led New York through that devastating time told potential voters they need to put their security ahead of other issues when it comes time to select a president.\n"In times of danger, as we are in now, Americans should put leadership at the core of their decision," he said.\nThe morning was highlighted by Bloomberg speaking to the delegation, promoting New York and the president. \n"We are here to support him," he said. "And I am here to support him."\nIn his speech, Bloomberg touched on the Olympic issue, saying that the city is preparing to be able to accommodate the world's largest sporting event, and because of New York's diversity, it should be a favorite for the Games. \n"New York has been and always will be an Olympic village," Bloomberg said.\nNew York is the North American representative vying for the 2012 Summer Olympics, but is receiving much resistance from New Yorkers who say the influx of that many people will make the city unlivable. \nPreceding Bloomberg, Koch addressed the convention, telling them he is a Democrat coming to convert the thousands of Republicans to a sea of laughs. The former Democratic congressman then received a round of applause when he proclaimed he will "vote for the reelection of George W. Bush." \nDuring both their speeches promoting New York was a prerogative. \n"It embodies the spirit of enterprise and the love of liberty," Bloomberg said. \nHe mentioned President Abe Lincoln and Jackie Robinson as just a couple of those who have made New York into a world class city.\n"(They) remind us all that New York is for everyone," the mayor said.\nWith the threat of terrorism on everyone's mind with the president coming to town on Thursday, Bloomberg addressed the topic of funding for security.\n"Homeland security funds should be allocated by threat, and no other reason," Bloomberg said.\nHe said he will urge his fellow Republicans, Democrats and Independents to follow through with that to help keep New Yorkers safe.\nAs the first day wrapped up to a full Garden, the delegates will come back tonight for only a night session that will feature Sen.\nElizabeth Dole, IU alum Secretary Rod Paige and first lady Laura Bush. \n-- Contact senior writer Josh Weinfuss at jweinfus@indiana.edu.