 Although Platt desired a recess , Hanna refused , wanting the convention to complete its work that day , and the delegates proceeded to the presidential nomination . McKinley had insisted that Foraker nominate him to demonstrate the unity of the Ohio Republican Party , and after some reluctance by the senator @-@ elect , who feared blame if anything went wrong , Foraker agreed . McKinley was waiting with family and friends at his house in Canton , being kept up to date by telegraph and telephone . He was able to listen to part of Foraker 's speech , and the tremendous reception that met it , over the phone line . McKinley was easily nominated on the first ballot , with Reed his nearest competitor . Canton erupted in celebration , with McKinley making speech after speech to the townsfolk and to those who poured in that day by rail from across Ohio , even from his birthplace of Niles . 
