Despite the threat of a tropical storm, thousands of delegates gather in Florida for the start of the Republican National Convention.<br/> <br />Tropical Storm Isaac had forced the event in Tampa to be postponed by a day.<br/> <br />But it failed to dampen spirits as more than 20,000 guests attended the Welcome Event, featuring singers, dancers and acrobats.<br/> <br />SOUNDBITE: BECKY BURGER, TEXAS DELEGATION, SAYING (English):<br/> <br />"I sit on the state Republican executive committee in Texas and we are very excited to be here and support Mitt and get him elected. I am excited."<br/> <br />Republicans are scrambling to make sure candidate Mitt Romney's message to voters will not be blown off course by the incoming weather.<br/> <br />Many hope Romney can still use the convention to make a memorable argue to be president.<br/> <br />He will run against Democratic President Barack Obama in the election on November 6.
