On day of Palin’s big speech, Kentucky’s RNC delegates reiterate their support

ST. PAUL, Minn. – With all eyes on Gov. Sarah Palin’s speech at the Republican National Convention this evening, Kentucky’s delegates to the convention sounded their support for her inclusion as Sen. John McCain’s running mate, even amid increased scrutiny of her record and family.

As television news networks dedicate their hours to debating Palin’s legitimacy as a pick, one delegate said her speech was of great significance.

“This is where she presents herself to the entire nation and to the Republican Convention,” said state Rep. Addia Wuchner (R-Burlington), a district delegate to the convention.

The state representative discredited coverage of the announcement that Palin’s teenage daughter was pregnant, arguing that was a private issue.

Wuchner said the matters with Palin’s family “are personal, they are private and they are not political.”

“I think its hands-off,” she added.

Amid the scrutiny, Wuchner said the Kentucky delegation remained excited about Palin.

“I have not seen one decline in the groundswell of support for her,” said Wuchner.

Wuchner’s sentiment was echoed by Republican Party of Kentucky chair Steve Robertson, who said his state’s delegates remained "excited" about Palin.

Kentucky’s RNC committeewoman Gail Russell added that Palin’s speech this evening was keeping the women within the Bluegrass state’s delegation especially enthusiastic.

“Particularly the women delegates cannot wait for tonight because we feel like this is our time to shine and our day has come,” said Russell.