COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Republican National Convention kicks off on July 15 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where thousands of Republican delegates from 56 states and U.S. territories will gather to cast their votes and officially nominate Donald Trump for president.
Ohio’s presidential delegates are preparing for their pivotal role in this process, including Ohio Republican Party Chair Alex Triantafilou.
Triantafilou, who has attended every Republican National Convention since 2004 and has been a delegate multiple times, including this year, emphasized the event’s unifying nature.
“These things are ultimately a way to come together as Republicans and to unite the party,” Triantafilou said.
Franklin County Republican Party Chair Meredith Freedhoff is a first-time delegate, eager to engage with delegates from other states.
“I’m excited to learn about what’s happening in their communities, on the ground, and with their candidates. I’m really looking forward to learning some new strategies,” Freedhoff said.
Both Triantafilou and Freedhoff view their delegate duties as crucial to the democratic process.
“We still have a robust two-party system,” Triantafilou said. “Despite facing occasional challenges, it remains a vital part of how we select our presidential nominees.”
“I believe we’re going to officially nominate [former] President Trump and also demonstrate solidarity and unity within the Republican Party,” Freedhoff added.
Paul Beck, Ohio State University Political Science Professor Emeritus, expects the convention to be smooth and likens it to a coronation of Trump as the nominee.
“I think it’s going to be an easy convention for the Republicans,” Beck said. “There may be a debate over his vice-presidential running mate, but I doubt it.”
One possible running mate is Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, a top contender for the role. Both Triantafilou and Freedhoff support this idea.
“I think this is a whole new era where politicians should be more outsiders, more well-rounded, with life experience outside Washington, D.C.,” Freedhoff said.
“He’s a person who represents the future of our party in many respects,” Triantafilou said. “I think he would be an outstanding choice, but we’ll support whoever President Trump chooses. And I know Senator Vance will too, but forgive us here in Ohio for rooting for our hometown guy.”
The GOP platform will also be set at the convention, with Triantafilou and Freedhoff anticipating a focus on the economy, including inflation and jobs.
“Energy costs have driven up the prices of everything we buy,” Triantafilou said. “Middle-class families are struggling daily with these costs. Inflation should be a huge issue.”
Other significant platform issues are expected to include immigration/border security and national security.
The Republican National Convention runs from July 15-18, while the Democratic National Convention in Chicago is scheduled for August 19-22.