ST. PAUL, Minn. — Barring any last-minute schedule changes, Gov. Linda Lingle is expected to speak to the Republican National Convention tonight and introduce Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, U.S. Sen. John McCain's surprise choice for vice president.

The Republican governor is scheduled to speak for about 10 minutes during the prime-time portion of the convention program, between 4:20 and 4:30 p.m. Hawai'i Standard Time, according to her staff.

Republicans are expecting a large television audience tonight for Palin's address.

McCain, of Arizona, the GOP's presidential choice, is expected to speak tomorrow night, on the convention's last day.

The convention schedule and speaker lineup have been altered this week so

Republicans would not conflict with emergency response to Hurricane Gustav on the Gulf Coast.