Ryan’s speech “electrifies” Tampa GOP attendees (+video)

By Russell Berman and Erik Wasson. Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) on Wednesday night electrified the Republican Party with a speech that combined lacerating attacks on President Obama with homespun values and a tribute to GOP candidate Mitt Romney.

In a 35-minute address that drew thunderous applause from Republican delegates, Ryan condemned the Obama presidency and presented an optimistic vision of the future under Romney’s leadership.

The core theme of the speech amounted to four words: “We can do this.”

Ryan said the Romney-Ryan team would fix the nation’s problems, not blame others. “Our nominee is sure ready,” the vice-presidential nominee said. “His whole life has prepared him for this moment — to meet serious challenges in a serious way, without excuses and idle words. After four years of getting the run-around, America needs a turnaround, and the man for the job is Gov. Mitt Romney.”

The seven-term lawmaker focused much of his address on Obama, mentioning the president’s name 16 times and Romney on a dozen occasions. He said Obama promised to deliver change, but had failed after four years. Read more from this story HERE.

Here’s a video excerpt of his speech: