The flood of Cornhusker fans into Ames for the Iowa State-Nebraska football game Saturday may include one famous Nebraska fan who currently is in the national spotlight.

Republican Vice-Presidential Candidate Dick Cheney is likely to make a stop at Jack Trice Stadium this weekend to watch the No. 1 ranked Cornhuskers in action against the Cyclones, several state Republican leaders said.

Although Cheney grew up in Casper, Wyo., he was born in Lincoln, Neb., on Jan. 30, 1942.

Cheney’s tentative stop in Ames will follow his national debate Thursday against Democratic Vice-Presidential Candidate Joseph Lieberman.

“I don’t think this has been confirmed, but it’s something that is probably in the works,” said Steve Roberts, Republican National Committee member from Des Moines.

Ann Dougherty, communications director for the Republican Party of Iowa, said Tuesday definite plans likely would be released after Tuesday’s national presidential debate.

“It’s still in the not-confirmed stage,” she said. “It’s very likely, but we haven’t gotten the OK that it’s for sure going to happen.”

Cheney’s possible visit to Ames may also be a strategic campaigning move, said Jim Kurtenbach, chairman of the Republican Party of Story County.

“The vice-presidential candidate visiting Story County would be good for Bush’s campaign,” Kurtenbach said. “I do know that Story County is one of the counties that have been targeted because they believe the Republicans can win here.”

The famous fan in the stands of Jack Trice Stadium would have special meaning for some members of the undefeated Nebraska football team, said offensive lineman Dave Volk.

“It is really neat that he’s not forgetting about where he came from,” said Volk, senior in psychology. “It really shows that no matter where people end up in life, the great people, the successful people, always remember their roots.”

While Cheney’s visit would add another layer of excitement to the Family Weekend football game, which already is laced with emotion for ISU fans, Kurtenbach said he does not think Cheney’s presence will distract the undefeated Cyclones.

“The more attention that is brought to any game helps the players,” Kurtenbach said. “I think, speaking as an Iowa State fan, they will focus on winning and not on who is in the crowd.”