The Hiller Instinct: GOP Convention

In Philadelphia it's finishing touches time, as balloons rise to the ceiling of the First Union Center, the GOP promises a different kind of convention:

Andy Card, Convention Co-chair
"If you tuned into a convention before and you got turned off by it, turn on to this one, it's going to be terrific."

By terrific, the Republicans mean no controversies in the coronation of George W. Bush.

Gov. George W. Bush, (R) Presidential Candidate
"I thought I'd start off with I accept your nomination. I know that's not very original, but it seems to always get applause."

To get even more applause, Republicans will bring out their best and most beautiful including Colin Powell and John McCain, and, for those just looking, Bo Derek. As Bush and running mate Dick Cheney campaign their way to the convention, there are signs this ticket may be a hit. A new poll, taken after Cheney was selected earlier this week, shows Bush opening up an eleven percentage point lead over Al Gore, and there's not much Gore can do about it right now, since he's on vacation. But there are no vacations for Philadelphia police, who've spent a year planning how to handle protests, and there could be demonstrations similar to those in Seattle.

Susan Whitaker, Direct Action Group
"We will be going into the streets so our voice can be heard by the delegates attending the convention and by the people at home."

Philadelphia doesn't intend to lose its title: City of Brotherly Love.

Comm. John Timoney, Philadelphia Police
"We've got back-up plans, plans to back-up the back-up plans if they fail, a whole host of things, but there are no guarantees."

Here's one guarantee: if there are protests in Philadelphia, the whole world will not be watching. When pollsters from Harvard asked Americans when the GOP. Convention will be held, eighty percent didn't know. But now you will: the correct answer is next Monday through Thursday.