By AP/KWMU
New York, NY – Missouri Republicans have sent nearly two-thirds more delegates to this week's Republican Convention than they did in 2000.
The increase is a sign of the state's growing importance in Republican politics.
The 57 delegates are also staying in rooms at the headquarters hotel and have access to a prized skybox at Madison Square Garden.
Party rules gave Missouri 12 more delegate spots this year for delivering the state to George Bush in 2000 election. The state party also gained still more slots for winning control of the state Legislature and for electing two Republicans to the U.S. Senate.