Almanac: At the Capitol

Gov. Tim Pawlenty got a standing ovation immediately upon walking out on to the stage at the RNC.  It was the first speech of the night that people actually stopped and listened to. Most of his remarks we've heard before, but this national audience liked it.  They answered along with his refrain "John McCain put our country first."  The VP contender said "I've gotten to know John McCain and his purple heart is a heart of gold."
Privately, most delegates and reporters say Pawlenty deserved a better speaking slot and were disappointed with him getting about five minutes early in the night. Most expected he would be introducing McCain.

Rep. Erik Paulsen also got a quick speaking slot even earlier in the night. His DFL opponent Ashwin Madia got to wave from the stage at the DNC.  We spoke to Paulsen right after his speech and he said it was exciting and valuable.