2008 Republican National Convention: Thursday

Republican presidential nominee John McCain and running mate Sarah Palin are joined onstage by their families at the conclusion of the convention Thursday.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Cindy McCain embraces vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin at the close of the convention.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

The Republican ticket for 2008, John McCain and Sarah Palin, after his speech accepting the presidential nomination.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Delegates celebrate as McCain accepts the nomination.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

McCain attempts to shush the cheering, chanting crowd during his speech accepting the nomination.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

John McCain walks on stage at the Republican National Convention.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Cindy McCain, wife of Republican presidential candidate John McCain, kisses daughter Meghan onstage at the convention. The other McCain children with them are, from left, Andy, Jim, Doug, Jack, Sidney and Bridget.  (Ron Edmonds / Associated Press)

Former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge speaks at the convention.  (Scott Olson / Getty Images)

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) addresses the delegates.  (Alex Wong / Getty Images)

Brittany Hale, 23, left to right, Francis Barraza, 24, and Kat Vermelis, 27, from Orange County cheer during a musical break at the Republican National Convention.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

John McCain and his wife, Cindy.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

John McCain gets an early look at the stage where he will speak from tonight.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

A technician stands near where John McCain will make his acceptance speech tonight at the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)