This post was written by Hatchet reporters Jenny Avallon and Alli Hoff.

The program began with Dale Scott singing the national anthem to a silently attentive crowd here at the Republican National Committee headquarters. The quiet was broken by whoops and applause immediately after, and the American pride here is tangible.

What is not seen in the room, adorned with American flags and McCain jeweled pins, is that Sen. Barack Obama is currently in the lead according major news outlets.

RNC co-chair Jo Ann Davidson and chair Mike Duncan delivered the opening address and thanked their loyal supporters.

“We’re proud of the campaign effort the RNC put forth and we’re proud of all of you,” Duncan said.

Both Davidson and Duncan emphasized the importance of direct voter contact in this campaign and predicted a long night.

Celebrations continue at the Capital Hilton as the servers roll out the dessert tray and re-stock the bar.