Hurricane Gustav blew the Republican Convention off course Monday, but party activists say it's been an opportunity for John McCain to show leadership under adversity. They're right. Instead of partisan rallies and rhetoric, there are sombre prayer breakfasts and fundraising for the victims. Florida's Republican Party chairman told delegates this morning that the convention was no longer about politics, it wasn't about "winning or losing" - it was all about helping those in need.  read more »

Republicans gathering here in St. Paul are all aflutter about winning diehard Hillary supporters in key battleground states. Not so fast.  read more »

Winning the rural vote has usually been a safe bet for Republicans. This election, pollsters say Democrats are likely to do better in rural areas in battleground states, making it a much more competitive environment.  read more »

It's the issues, stupid! No seriously, what issues matter to you this November? This week we want you to tell Senators and Representatives - and as many as 2 million public radio listeners - what matters to you! Tell us if you want to ask your question on the air, and how we can contact you. Go to askyourlawmaker@cncnews.org - and check out Craig Newmark's blog on The Huffington Post and get connected!  read more »