Libertarians are making a splash in Tampa. On Tuesday former presidential candidate Ron Paul’s delegates from Maine walked out of the convention after party leaders decided to strip half of Paul’s delegates from the state. “We are duly elected. They took it from us. Are we gonna take it? No…” The protest didn’t endear many delegates to the last name “Paul.” But Kentucky Senator Rand Paul says he’s happy his father’s delegates are making their voices heard in Tampa.“Absolutely. Party’s got to get bigger. There are many places where we’re not winning. We’re not winning in New England. We’re not winning in California. I think libertarian type Republicans could win again in some of these states where other Republicans don’t seem to be fairing very well,” said Paul.
Ken Fleming is a delegate from Louisville. He says he doesn’t mind that Paul supporters are being vocal at this year’s convention, but he says they need to come around at some point.
“Well, you know – we live in a democracy. That’s America and that’s how things come to fruition. So everybody should have their say and their input, but at the end of the day regardless of how things materialize we all have to get together and support the individuals that we put forth,” said Flemming.
Later this evening Senator Paul will address the convention, which is expected to make his father’s supporters happy. As for Paul’s message tonight? His lips are sealed.
“It’s top secret. What’s your clearance? Can’t tell you,” added Paul.
All eyes will be on Senator Paul this evening. The high profile speech has some of his father’s supporters whispering that they might be able to support another presidential candidate named Paul in the future.
