John McCain's supporters convene for their first full night of rallying.

After seeking shelter from Gustav, the Republicans launched their first real night of the convention. As prime time approached, First Lady Laura Bush introduced her husband, who spoke to the delegates via satellite from the White House--the first time in decades a sitting president was not in attendance.

The evening seemed emotionally subdued, until the former Senator from Tennessee, Fred Thompson, strolled across the glossy stage and electrified the room.

Thompson also blasted Senator Barack Obama, telling the rowdy audience,  "The Democrats present a history-making nominee for president--history-making in that he is the most liberal, most inexperienced nominee to ever run for president."

The crowd loved it. "Thompson was so charismatic," says Republican mom Jamie. "These were the most pointed criticisms we've heard publicly about Obama from a conservative...and it's about time someone said what we've all been thinking! And I was happy he defended our pro-life beliefs."

Senator Joe Lieberman of Connecticut and the Democrats' vice presidential nominee in 2000 crossed party lines, asking, "What, after all, is a Democrat like me doing at a Republican convention like this?"  But, liberal or not, he is obviously a huge supporter of John McCain. He also defended Sarah Palin, saying, "She's taken on the special interests and the political power brokers in Alaska and reached across party lines to get things done."

Liberal blogger PoliticalDad said, "Despite lots of powerful rhetoric, you could already feel everyone holding their breath for tonight...when all eyes will be on that lady who can field dress a moose."

See Also:

• The Juno Effect Strikes Washington
• Republican National Convention Kicks Off
• Tune In: The Republican Convention