Ron Paul is in a unique place. Because of his philosophy of limited government, his followers are devoted solely to him. While at many conventions Romney backers are split between numerous would-be delegates, Paul has supporters who follow his unique, libertarian leanings and are faithful to him as their potential presidential nominee. In fact, at state conventions around the country his supporters are increasing his support by joining state party committees. Like are acting similar to the Tea Party in the way they are trying to send a message to the greater Republican party leaders. They have come behind Paul and are trying their hardest to give Romney a run for his money. In fact, at the Massachusetts state convention less than half of Romney’s delegates were chosen to go to Tampa for the national convention, Paul’s delegates were chosen instead.

The possibility that the republican nomination will come down to a convention floor fight has been discussed, however at this time it seems unlikely that a brokered convention will occur.  I had never heard of a brokered convention before researching for this post. I learned that a brokered convention occurs where there are not enough delegates won during the primary elections. Essentially, a single candidate does not have a majority. There then has to be re-votes and the delegates who had been faithful to one candidate are now allowed to switch their allegiance. I am hoping that it doesn’t come down to this, even though the Washington Post says it’s not likely. The Post also says that really the convention is more of a formality or tradition, and that one ballot is held, choosing the nominee who had already been decided during the primaries.

Although Paul has been having success in state caucuses, such as in Louisiana, where he dominated had favor with four of the six districts, tying in the fifth, he still only has 80 delegates while Romney has 847.