DENVER--The race for state treasurer is getting little attention during an election cycle dominated by the presidential race.

This morning, the Democratic nominee for the statewide office got some notice, addressing Pennsylvania delegates at breakfast here.

"The treasurer's office really matters," said Rob McCord, who is running against Republican Tom Ellis.

Gov. Ed Rendell introduced McCord as "someone who understands all the intricacies of finance," describing him as "truly the energizer bunny."

McCord didn't disappoint on the latter, bounding up to the podium and speaking with gusto about how green energy jobs could be brought to areas of the state decimated by the loss of industrial jobs.

"We can make southwest Pennsylvania the engine room for energy for the entire Northeast," McCord said.

In a brief interview with PolitickerPa.com, McCord said that in spite of the challenge of bringing attention to his campaign, he was happy with the interest people were taking in the race.

McCord will be soon be buying advertising time on television, but he said his campaign was still figuring out when and where to advertise.

"I am impressed by how willing people are to learn about this office, and I think it has a lot to do with the financial hardships people are going through," he said.

FOR COMPLETE CONVENTION COVERAGE from PolitickerPA.com, click here.