Republican delegate Scott Hummel makes his final preparations before heading to the Republican National Convention in St. Paul.

"We're leaving tomorrow about 11 o'clock, we're driving out... 10 hours," Hummel said.

It the first time to a national convention for the former state representative.

"I'm looking forward to seeing a lot of the national figures and what they have to say," Hummel said.

And he's hoping the republicans put on a good show.

"The message I hope the American people see is, John McCain and Sara Palin who are ready to lead the country," he said.

What about John McCain's pick for V.P.?

"Pleasantly surprised," Hummel said. "She seems to be a go-getter, not too concerned with ruffling any feathers."

Hummel said he expects Michigan to play a big role in November.

The key to winning here, he said,is tackling Michigan's struggling economy.

"The most important thing in private sector is stability," Hummel said. "We haven't had that obviously with the auto industry plus the debate over the business tax creates instability."

But before Obama and McCain battle it out in the general election, it's the republicans turn to introduce their candidate. A week of pomp and circumstance, Hummel is looking forward to.

"I would like to meet Laura Bush if I had the opportunity," he said.