"As governor of New Jersey, Chris Christie has proven how bold Republican leadership gets results. He has fearlessly tackled his state's most difficult challenges, while looking out for hardworking taxpayers. He is a leader of principle and conviction, and I am excited to hear him address the Republican National Convention as our keynote speaker. Governor Christie will make the case for America's Comeback Team and will rally our party and country in support of the Romney-Ryan ticket," said Chairman Priebus.  

Chairman Priebus also announced today that Florida's U.S. Senator Marco Rubio will have the key role of introducing Mitt Romney for his speech to accept the Republican nomination for president of the United States on Thursday, August 30. 

Governor Romney's Thursday night address, which Senator Rubio will introduce, is the high point of the four-day Republican National Convention, August 27-30. The presidential nomination acceptance speech by Senator John McCain at the Republican National Convention in 2008 drew 38.9 million viewers across the country, nearly as much as the viewership of this year's Olympics opening ceremonies and similar to the viewership of the Oscars. This year's convention speeches will also be broadcast live online. 

"Senator Marco Rubio is without a doubt one of America's most dynamic and inspiring leaders, and I am excited to announce that he will introduce Governor Romney at the Republican National Convention," said Chairman Priebus. "Senator Rubio is a proven leader and a man of true character, and it is fitting that he will take on such an important role at our convention in his home state. Throughout his career, he has shown true dedication to constitutional principles, fiscal responsibility and free enterprise. As the son of immigrants, he has witnessed the promise of the American Dream firsthand and has worked to secure that promise for future generations."