Bob McDonnell

Gov. Bob McDonnell will chair the Republican Party’s platform committee at the national convention in Tampa, Fla.,  this summer, the Republican National Committee announced late this afternoon.

McDonnell, who also serves as chairman of the Republican Governors Association, will serve on the platform committee with Sen. John Hoeven of North Dakota and Rep. Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee. Pundits surely will speculate whether this has any implications for McDonnell’s prospects as a vice presidential candidate.

Here’s the full announcement from the Republican National Committee:

Today RNC Chairman Reince Priebus announced the leadership of the 2012 Republican National Convention Committee on Resolutions, commonly known as the Platform Committee.

Governor Bob McDonnell of Virginia will serve as Chairman. Senator John Hoeven of North Dakota and Representative Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee will serve as Co-Chairmen.

“Governor McDonnell, Senator Hoeven, and Congresswoman Blackburn are outstanding leaders in the Republican Party, and I am proud that they will lead us in writing our 2012 Platform,” said Chairman Priebus.

“The principles of our party and our vision for the country are contained in the Platform. It is a document of immense importance and a testament to our dedication to individual liberty, economic freedom, and limited government.”

“I am honored to serve as Chairman of the Committee on Resolutions,” said Gov. McDonnell. “I look forward to hearing from voters across the country as we seek to give voice to the concerns, priorities, and values of the American people. This process is about more than writing; it is about listening. Voters deserve a party who listens to them.

“The Obama presidency has been a difficult time for Virginians and for Americans. Our Platform will outline the way forward for our economy and a new and better direction for our country.”

“It is a privilege to be asked to serve in this capacity, and we will work to make the effort both responsive and inclusive,” said Sen. Hoeven. “The Platform represents a commitment to the American people, and it’s a commitment we take seriously.”

“America is ready for new leadership,” said Rep. Blackburn. “Our economy is struggling, our debt is growing, and our future is uncertain. The president’s agenda has only worsened these problems. Republicans will offer solutions, and that begins with our Platform.”

“I am thrilled for my home state of Florida to host the Republican National Convention, where we will set forth the principles on which our party and our candidates will stand,” said RNC Co-Chairman Sharon Day. “Tampa will play host to what I know will be an impressive and historic event.”

The Committee is scheduled to meet August 19-21 in Tampa, Florida.

The Platform Committee Staff includes Ben Key, Executive Director; Elise Stefanik, Policy Director; Bill Gribbin, Editor and Gracey Roskam, Executive Assistant.