Top GOP figures discuss tough convention decision

Top Republicans are opening up about the tough call they face over whether to attend this summer’s Republican National Convention.

Several figures in the party talked to The New York Times on Wednesday about being torn over whether to head to Cleveland to watch Donald Trump become the GOP presidential nominee.

{mosads}“I’m sure it will be fun,” said Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who has said he will skip the convention. “I’m sure it will be entertaining. And I can watch it on TV.”

“T.B.D.,” said a spokesman for Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.). “The schedule is still being firmed up.”

“Just as they’re firming up the schedule, it kind of looks like there’s a lot of stuff for me to do,” said Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.).

Asked whether his hesitation to attend has to do with Trump, a smiling Johnson replied, “Oh, of course not.” 

Ohio Gov. John Kasich is still on the fence about attending the event, the report said.

A spokesman said Kasich, who suspended his presidential bid last month, has no idea “what role, if any, he will have.”

Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio), who is seeking reelection, is also conflicted.

“I’ve spoken at every convention since 1996,” he said. “Nobody listens; nobody covers it.”