RNC Headline Speakers Announced

On Monday, RNC chair Reince Priebus announced the initial list of headlining speakers for the Republican National Convention in Tampa Aug. 27-30. 

Speakers include Florida Gov. Rick Scott, South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Arizona Sen. John McCain, Ohio Gov. John Kasich and New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez. 

"The Republican National Convention comes at a critical time for determining America's future. Mitt Romney knows that it is the hard-working people of America who build businesses and create jobs - not the government," Scott said in a RNC news release. "We share that same belief here in Florida where we continue our progress in helping to create jobs by moving government out of the way of our businesses. I look forward to telling our story to the world when we gather in Tampa in just a few weeks."

The RNC has not released times or dates for the speakers. 

"We are proud and excited to announce these outstanding leaders will address the nation during our convention in Tampa," said Chairman Priebus in a news release. "They are some of our party's brightest stars, who have governed and led effectively and admirably in their respective roles. Ours will be a world class convention, worthy of the next president of the United States, and these speakers-and those that will be announced later-will help make it a truly memorable and momentous event."

According to the political website, Mediaite, the list of speakers helps narrow the focus on whom Romney could choose as his Vice President. 

"The confirmed speakers include some prominent politicians who were being discussed as potential running mates for Mitt Romney’s presidential ticket, but their selection to address the convention has eliminated them from contention.

... Notably absent from the list of speakers are some regularly mentioned potential vice presidential choices for Romney including Wisconsin Rep. Paul Ryan, Ohio Sen. Rob Portman, former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty and New Hampshire Sen. Kelly Ayotte."