Republicans choose Tampa, Fla., as site for 2012 presidential convention

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Oxon Hill, Md. — Republicans have picked Tampa, Fla., for their 2012 presidential convention.

Losing out were Salt Lake City and Phoenix.

The choice by the selection committee Wednesday still needs formal approval from the full Republican National Committee in August, but that is considered a formality.

Florida is a swing state in presidential elections with a hefty 27 electoral votes.

The last Republican convention in Florida was in Miami in 1972 when the party nominated President Richard Nixon and Vice President Spiro Agnew.

-- Associated Press