Concerns Over Whitman Rein in GOP Fervor

California Republicans have high hopes for November, but the gubernatorial candidate's shifting tone on illegal immigration will likely raise tension at their convention.

The Los Angeles Times reported that: The former EBay chief faces an awkward homecoming at the party's convention because of her shifting tone on illegal immigration and climate change since winning the GOP primary in June. "Conservatives and Republicans, we can eat a little bit of dirt on our food. It doesn't have to be a perfect meal, but we have to know what we're eating," said Mike Spence, a leading conservative voice in the party. "Even if someone takes a position that's different than the conservatives', to be able to articulate it and stick with it you still get points…. Being all over the place doesn't get you leadership points." The tension is likely to be on display this weekend: As moderate party leaders launch online efforts to reach out to minority voters, conservatives are trying to force a floor vote to support Arizona's controversial crackdown on illegal immigration. Whitman, who some party activists say is trying to block such a vote, will leave before the fight occurs.