MINNEAPOLIS -- Two delegates from Vermont characterized the Republican presidential ticket as one representing strength, courage and strong family values here at the Republican National Convention Tuesday.

Both women watched five surrogates for John McCain speak at the a joint breakfast with the Vermont and Maine delegations.

There, Carly Fiorina, a senior McCain aide and former Hewlett Packard CEO, said the Republican candidate will attract those who supported Hillary Clinton in the Democratic primary. McCain’s son, Andy, talked about his dad’s personality.

Former Social Security Commissioner Dorcas Hardy said McCain will bring the necessary reforms to the way government does business. Two veterans talked about McCain’s war experience.

Linda Kirker of Georgia is a delegate, the chairwoman of the Franklin County Republican Committee and a former legislator.

“John McCain is a man of extreme courage, competence, strength and intelligence. He is the man to lead the country in different global times,” she said.

This is her first convention, Kirker said, and she is thrilled with Gov. Sarah Palin of Alaska, who was chosen as McCain's running mate Marianna Gamache of Swanton came to the convention as a guest of Kirker’s. She said she is also pleased with the vice presidential pick.

“Her knowledge of energy (issues) is very extensive,” Gamache said.

“In selecting Sarah Palin, John has shown respect for capable women.”

Granted, Palin has been in office for less than two years, but Gamache said her executive experience gives her an advantage, as McCain and Sens. Barack Obama and Joe Biden on the Democratic ticket have only served in the Legislative branch.

From the morning speeches, Gamache said she was pleased to hear Fiorina talk about McCain’s work on economic issues.

“I didn’t know how extensive his experience was,” Gamache said. “I was delighted to learn that he has a true grasp on all the issues.”

Gamache said she used to be a Democrat, but felt the party’s values changed while hers stayed the same.

“I didn’t leave the Democratic Party. The Democratic Party left me,” she said.