Delegates impressed by Pawlenty

Despite his disparaging words for the Green Bay Packers at the end of his speech, GOP convention-goers were generally impressed with Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty's keynote address Friday night.

Trempeleau County delegate Dave Anderson said Pawlenty's address was outstanding, and that "he's got to be on the short list" for a vice-presidential spot with John McCain.

Anderson said that Pawlenty would help the GOP ticket not just as an appealing politician, but as the governor of a neighboring state. In particular, he said his native Western Wisconsin could move more toward McCain if they see a name they are familiar with on the ballot with the Arizona senator.

Brown County delegate Robert Henderson added that Pawlenty's speech was excellent, and that he would make a "good choice" for the vice-presidency.

Not all delegates were ready to finalize the top of the fall GOP ticket, however. Price County delegate Jeffrey Fahl said that he still didn't know enough about Pawlenty to advocate for his VP selection, but did say he made very good points during his address.

-- By Andy Szal