By Alabama Public Radio
Montgomery, AL – Governor Bob Riley is not seeking a delegate seat to this summer's Republican National Convention. It will be the first time in the modern era that a Republican Alabama governor will not lead the party's convention delegation. Riley sent a letter to members of the state Republican Executive Committee in December. He said he would step aside to give the opportunity to another Republican. The governor will still have floor privileges at the convention, but only delegates may cast votes for presidential and vice presidential nominees and decide questions concerning the party's platform. U-S- Senator Richard Shelby is expected to serve as Alabama's delegation chairman in New York. The party is expected to nominate President Bush for a second term. Senator Shelby also has been asked to serve as chairman of Bush's re-election effort in Alabama.