WHITFIELD: Republican presidential hopefuls head south on Monday night. CNN hosts the Tea Party Republican debate from the Florida state fairgrounds. And CNN deputy political director Paul Steinhauser is already there with a sneak peek over what's to come. So Paul, first off, why is this day so special? Why is it different from other presidential debates?</s>PAUL STEINHAUSER, CNN DEPUTY POLITICAL DIRECTOR: I think, Fred, because of the Tea Party connection. CNN's teaming up with the Tea Party Express and other groups to put on this debate. And of course I think it's fair to say that the Tea Party movement, the activists were extremely influential last year in the Republican primaries and also in the midterm elections. Republicans won back control of the House of Representatives, partially because of strong support from the Tea Party. And most people say the Tea Party movement will have a big impact on the battle for the Republican nomination. Monday night here at the state fairgrounds, Wolf Blitzer is going to be on the stage asking questions of the eight candidates, but so will Tea Party activists here in Tampa and at three locations around the country. What are some of the issues? Of course economy and jobs, Fred. That's on everybody's mind. But also issues very important to Tea Party activists. Issues like the budget deficit and cutting deficit spending. You also may hear a lot about Social Security. We saw Mitt Romney, the former Massachusetts governor and Rick Perry as there was debate in California go after each other on Social Security. It's an important issue especially here in Florida, as well. Fred, back to you.</s>WHITFIELD: Paul Steinhauser, thanks so much. We'll be watching. Be sure to tune in Monday night at CNN. The Tea Party Express and other Tea Party groups co-host the Republican candidates' debate. It's in Tampa, Florida, the site of the GOP national convention Monday, 8:00 eastern, the debate, that is. Pennsylvania now. A zoo has to make a terrible choice after rising flood water trapped animals and they begin to panic.
Republican Presidential Candidates Prepare for Tea Party Debate in Florida