Go Enter ZIP code or state abbreviation. There wasn't one black gospel choir, but two. From National Anthem singer Mari Griego, an Hispanic from New Mexico, to the closing speech by retired general and prominent African American Colin Powell, only a handful of people who got on stage were non-Hispanic whites. Clearly, the line-up was part of George W. Bush's efforts to shape the GOP as a more diverse and inclusive party. Some focus groups of black voters, assembled by news organizations, appeared dubious about the Republican appeal for their affection.
Analysts say the convention planners' goal is more realistic.
There isn't any realistic chance, in the short term, of bringing any substantial number of blacks into the Republican fold. But the idea is to project an image of tolerance that would be attractive to moderate whites, to swing voters. In a meeting with Washington Post editors and reporters here, McCain acknowledged that his party has yet to achieve the kind of inclusiveness that is necessary, but is moving in that direction under Bush's leadership. McCain will address the convention this evening. Mann said the show of diversity is important to Bush because his campaign took a harsher turn during the primary battle against McCain.