My mom Mika Brzezinski dragged me to Tampa to watch the Republicans get together to nominate Mitt Romney. I say "dragged" because I am a Democrat and have announced to my family that I will leave the country if Governor Romney is elected president. Maybe that's why Mom wanted me to open my mind with a quick trip to Tampa.
We touched down Wednesday morning and dropped our bags off at the hotel and soon were on our way to the Tampa Bay Times Forum to tour the convention floor. We found Joe Scarborough on the floor and soon we were walking around the floor taking pictures and watching Mom and Joe do interviews. They also did a comic bit for Conan O'Brien. Mom ran into my dad's best friend Tom Manning, a photographer for ABC News. We all caught up and took pictures to send Dad. It was great to see him. While we were on the floor, Senator John McCain was rehearsing for his speech which would take place later on in the evening.
Next to the convention center was the Huffington Post's Oasis. Set up by Arianna Huffington, this was a place for journalists, politicians and convention participants to free their minds from all that was taking place in Tampa. They offered yoga sessions, facials, massages, and all natural meals under 500 calories. Set up in the Oasis was the studio for HuffPost Live. Abby Huntsman and Arianna Huffington were doing a segment and I was able to join them for a bit.
The next morning I got up REALLY early to watch my mom and Joe broadcast Morning Joe live at Howl at the Moon restaurant. I'm not sure how my mom does that every day. I was able to take pictures of all the guests and meet Senator McCain and Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich. Arianna Huffington also stopped by to be on show for a little.
I'm so glad I came down to Tampa, even if the city is filled with Republicans. The experience has made me feel so good about the politics and how this country works no matter who wins. That said, I hear Canada is beautiful in the spring.
