Isaac Delays GOP National Convention

Republican officials suddenly canceled the first day of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, postponing the political event as Tropical Storm Isaac threatens to become Hurricane Isaac and possibly strike Florida.

"The safety of those in Isaac's path is of the utmost importance," declared GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney.  "I applaud those in Tampa making appropriate schedule changes."

Thousands of delegates and convention attendees are flooding into the city as residents board up homes and businesses in preparation for natural disaster across the Tampa metro area of 4 million people.

U.S. Vice President Joe Biden canceled his trip to Florida.

"We hope we are up and running and expect all of our delegates to be here," said Republican Party Chairman Reince Priebus.  "The Republican convention is going to take place.  We know that we will officially nominate Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan."

The weather forecast warns of rain, high winds, flooding and a dangerous storm surge, so organizers of the Republican National Convention are scrambling to get delegates out of beachfront hotels and up on higher ground.

The convention boss issued a statement after meeting with Florida Governor Rick Scott, who has officially declared the State of Florida a disaster area in advance.

"Our first priority is ensuring the safety of delegates, alternates, guests, members of the media attending the Republican National Convention, and citizens of the Tampa Bay area," declared convention CEO Bill Harris.

Monday's start of the Republican National Convention is formally and officially CANCELED in the interest of public safety.

With Tropical Storm Isaac moving into the eastern Gulf of Mexico, U.S. Coast Guard officials have ordered a halt to all cargo ship and cruise ship traffic moving into and out of Tampa Bay.

GOP officials are confident the national convention will begin on Tuesday as Hurricane Isaac heads northwest toward the gulf coast.