With less than 100 days until the beginning of the 2008 Republican National Convention, the eyes of Republicans all over the world will turn to the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” as Arizona Senator John McCain is officially nominated to be the Republican Party’s nominee for President.

Connecticut Republicans are privileged to have a bit of Minnesota coming to us in the interim, as Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty - a frequently mentioned prospect for Vice President and McCain for President Co-Chairman - will come to the Nutmeg State on Friday, June 27, 2008, for the 2008 Prescott Bush Awards Dinner.

Pawlenty’s appearance follows in a long line of nationally prominent Republicans to speak before the Bush Dinner - MA Gov. Mitt Romney, Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Sen. John McCain, Gov. Jeb Bush, and last year’s speaker, Fred Thompson.  As you’ll recall, Sen. Thompson spoke to the assembled guests at the 2007 Bush Dinner just as his Presidential stock was skyrocketing.  Gov. Pawlenty is often noted for his laid back midwestern style and “I’ll fly coach instead of first class” manners that are refreshing for a man who could, quite literally, be a heartbeat away from the Presidency eight months from now.  His address to the 2008 Prescott Bush Awards Dinner should be both entertaining and interesting.

And just two months after the Bush Dinner, the roles will reverse and Gov. Pawlenty will play host to Connecticut’s delegation (well, every state’s delegation) to the Republican National Convention.  30 delegates, 27 alternates, a herd of guests, and a troupe of reporters will set out for the Twin Cities on August 31st for the 9/1-9/4 Convention.

Until then, you can get ready for the RNC by doing some shopping for official gear, reading the blog, and booking your flights before they get too much more expensive.