The Richmond County Republican Committee office in New Dorp was empty Friday, as party members from across the borough get ready to head to the Republican National Convention in Cleveland.
"It's the first time in my lifetime that we have a candidate from the State of New York," said Mary Reilly, Former Chair of the SIGOP.
"It's a really exciting thing, it's almost like going to Disneyland," said Nick Iacono.
The Staten Island Young Republicans member will attend the convention as a volunteer.
"There's going to be a lot of energy, a lot of people supporting Trump," said New York Assemblyman Ron Castorina. "He's someone who we think is going to really change the country and this convention is the place where it all begins."
The event kicks off Monday and runs through Thursday. Numerous speakers will talk about the GOP platform. Voters say they hope certain topics are made top priority.
"We're still recovering from Superstorm Sandy, we're going to need the government's help there," said Reilly.
"With what's been going on in the world, safety, right? Foreign policies," said Philip Rao of Bay Terrace.
"The issue right now that's important to Staten Island is for communities to come together and stop all this hatred," said Lori Edmond of Stapleton.
To add to the convention buzz, Trump just announced he’s chosen Indiana Governor Mike Pence as his pick for Vice President.
"I really don't know much about him, he isn't famous as Donald Trump," said Edmond.
"Mike is largely unknown but he's certainly a conservative and his conservative bona fides I think is certainly what the ticket needs," said Castorina.
"I'm happy with the pick that he made," said Rao.
The RNC won’t be a party for everyone. Thousands are expected to flock to the convention, including protesters, adding to the need for heightened security.
"Certainly a concern anytime you have so many people coming together in one place," said Castorina.
It’s just one of several reasons why many Islanders will keep a close eye on Cleveland.