GOP 2012 convention speakers announced

Republicans rolled out a list of headline speakers Monday for their convention in Tampa, a roster covering important demographic and thematic bases, but one that will almost certainly be expanded with the addition of the silver and bronze medalists in the vice presidential selection process.

Sen. John McCain (Ariz.), the party’s 2008 presidential nominee, former secretary of state Condoleezza Rice, former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee and the governors of two must-win states, Florida’s Rick Scott and John Kasich of Ohio, are among those who will address the Republican National Convention, which runs Aug. 27-30. Two female state chief executives, Gov. Nikki Haley (S.C.) and Gov. Susana Martinez (N.M.), will also have prominent speaking slots, according to the Tampa Bay Times, which first reported the list.

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Conspicuously missing from the speakers list are those thought to be Romney’s vice presidential finalists: Sen. Marco Rubio (Fla.), Sen. Rob Portman (Ohio), Rep. Paul Ryan (Wisc.), Gov. Bobby Jindal (La.), Gov. Robert F. McDonnell (Va.), Sen. Kelly Ayotte (N.H.) and former Minnesota governor Tim Pawlenty. It’s difficult to imagine that some, if not all of them, will not eventually get their moment on the podium in Tampa.

Also absent, for the moment at least, are other marquee party names, such as 2008 vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin, Gov. Chris Christie (N.J.), Rep. Eric Cantor (Va.), House Speaker John Boehner (Ohio), and a newly minted tea party favorite Senate candidate Ted Cruz (Tex.).