ACA Representatives Participate in Republican National Convention Events

Earlier this month, the Republican National Convention convened in the Twin Cities. In the past, partisan conventions were held so state delegates could vote on their parties' nominees. Today, however, they have evolved into four-day infomercials for the parties' candidates and their running mates. Nonetheless, these events remain quite the spectacle, as the nation's power brokers from each political party gather in a single location. In all, estimates put the number of visitors to the Twin Cities between 40,000 and 45,000.

Because the Republican National Convention was held in ACA International's home state, ACA members and staff were able to take advantage of the gathering and attend many of the events and functions.

The official floor proceedings represented only a small portion of the overall convention activities, as the gathering was used as a focal point for states, political organizations and advocacy groups to arrange events in honor of the public officials and delegates in town for the event. Many state delegations prearranged social events for the state delegates and other interested parties to gather and meet their home state members of Congress. After the convention's proceedings ended, a bevy of late-night celebrations competed to entertain the conventioneers.

ACA members and staff were able to attend several of the formal and informal events, capped by the attendance of Past President Chris Wunder and Treasurer Mark Neeb, who attended the night's final events, including the acceptance speech of Republican nominee John McCain. In addition, ACA staff attended various events, including lunches and receptions honoring various congressional delegations.

This exposure during such a high-profile event provided an excellent opportunity for ACA members and staff to introduce themselves to many of the policymakers who affect the credit and collection industry. ACA representatives took advantage of opportunities to promote the industry's contribution to the U.S. economy and the services member companies provide.