VIRGINIA BEACH (AP) -- U.S. Representative Thelma Drake has lost her speaking slot at the Republican National Convention because of schedule changes related to Hurricane Gustav.

Officials shortened the convention's opening session in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Monday as the storm hit the Gulf Coast.

Drake was scheduled to speak on Monday afternoon, but the speech was cut from the agenda. Officials said they hope to reschedule the displaced speakers for other times, but Drake was heading back to Virginia.

The 58-year-old expressed disappointment that her slot was eliminated. Drake is a Republican who represents Virginia Beach and parts of Norfolk, Hampton and the Eastern Shore.

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