After a scaled down schedule on Monday, the Republican National Convention is in full swing Tuesday.

Opening the day for Michigan delegates was a breakfast appearance by First Lady Laura Bush, who emphasized the need for Americans of all political affiliations to come together and help those affected by Hurricane Gustav.

"We were all preparing for the hurricane -- setting politics aside and putting America first," said Michigan Republican Party Chairman Saul Anuzis. "We are now getting ready to get into things and make the Republican case to the American people."

The first lady also told Michigan Republicans that John McCain was the right candidate to win the state in November. She noted her extensive campaigning across the state in both the 2004 and 2000 elections.

Bush says Michigan "could be the next Ohio" this November.

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land hosted Bush's visit, and former Gov. Mitt Romney will be the featured speaker tomorrow morning. Romney is a favorite son of Michigan, whose father, George, was a popular governor and author of the current state constitution.

Also attending the reception were various state legislators, including Sen. Jason Allen, R-Traverse City.

"The first lady inspired and motivated us to win Michigan for John McCain," said Allen, who is the Michigan delegation whip on the convention floor and a member of the RNC Rules Committee.

Besides thousands of delegates, alternates and politicians from across the United States, there's also a contingent of about 150 international observers, including several prime ministers, government ministers and members of parliament. Among them was a top Canadian politician, who is taking everything in ahead of a just-called election on October 14 -- the snap campaign was just called, as parliamentary system allows for short campaigns unlike the U.S. system where candidates often begin campaigning two years ahead of an election.

Congressman Pete Hoesktra, R-Holland, is speaking at an international fringe event, where he will address U.S. foreign policy. Hoekstra made a special trip to Cheboygan on August 14 for the County Republican Convention and is rumored to be exploring a campaign for governor in 2010.