Jim Galloway points to a major problem for Republicans

From the GOP convention

Updated at 3:05 p.m.: As are most gatherings of Republican activists, the crowd here at the state GOP convention is largely white, and on the older side.

But the official emphasis is on diversity. One of the first speakers this afternoon was Michael McNeely of Douglas County, a law enforcement officer and African-American.

He was followed by Narender Reddy of Duluth, representing the Indian-American contingent of the state GOP.

Randy Evans, who currently presides over the convention, highlighted an evening speech by J.C. Watts of Oklahoma, an African-American and former congressman considering a run for governor.

Republican National Convention Chairman Michael Steele will speak tomorrow morning. Herman Cain, the 2004 candidate for U.S. Senate, will speak tomorrow afternoon — right before Gov. Sonny Perdue.

“We can’t be afraid to talk to people who do not vote for us,” said Cameron Fash, chairman of the Georgia Federation of Young Republican Clubs, in a speech just completed. “To some of you, that may be a tough pill to swallow. I can get you some water.”

A deficiency of young people is another theme in the early hours of this convention. Several Republicans, Fash included, have talked about being outgunned on Georgia’s college campuses.

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