TAMPA, Fla. Ron Paul supporters are unhappy that Republican National Convention organizers arent letting them throw a festival honoring the Texas congressman and presidential candidate the weekend before the gathering. Spokesman Bryan Siemon said his group is organizing a three-day PaulFest at the Florida State Fairgrounds that would include music, comedians and speakers. But the Republicans control Tampas public venues during the convention and havent given PaulFest approval to use the fairgrounds.
Convention organizers say they arent blocking anyone and that a decision will be made within a few weeks.
We do have the request, said James Davis. We have an extraordinary amount for requests for the venues we do have. Were going through and making assignments and no one has turned down any assignment yet.
Pauls libertarian beliefs have drawn him avid followers and some delegates. Supporters of presumed nominee Mitt Romney fear Paul supporters will protest during the convention, detracting from Romneys message and party unity. Paul has lined up about 140 delegates for the convention. He suspended active campaigning in May and has not indicated whether he will endorse Romney.
Siemon said Tuesday that he is disappointed with convention organizers. He worries that by the time the RNC makes a decision, it will be too late to organize the festival, which could draw thousands.
We have a timeline, said Siemon. If we cant get this date secured, it will make it impossible to put on a festival of this large size.
Siemon added that he and the festivals other organizers along with many people who want to attend the PaulFest are Republicans. The festival is a way to thank Paul for his beliefs and campaign, Siemon said.
The PaulFest is tentatively scheduled for Aug. 24-26, and the convention begins on Aug. 27.
Siemon said that Paul has been invited to the event but has not yet confirmed hell go.
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