green73
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http://www2.tbo.com/news/politics/2...at-rnc-who-speaks-is-a-matter-of-p-ar-461801/
One of Romney's biggest problems with speakers could be how to handle the Ron Paul movement.
Paul's political philosophy differs sharply from mainstream Republicanism in key areas including national defense, which Romney won't want to advertise. Paul has a small but dedicated core of followers known for taking on the GOP establishment and who have managed to take over several state delegations.
Romney's greatest fear could be a movement to nominate Paul from the floor of the convention, which could happen if five state delegations line up behind him.
But Paul, who's about to turn 77 and is retiring after 22 years in Congress and three presidential races, may be seeking to hand off leadership of his movement to his son, Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul.
The RNC's announcement that Rand Paul will speak in Tampa, but with no mention of Ron Paul, hints at a deal between the Paul and Romney forces that neither side will confirm — a speaking slot for Rand Paul in return for convention peace.
Ron Paul has announced he'll seek a positive, non-confrontational stance from his campaign during the convention, and even will snub some gatherings planned by supporters because his campaign isn't controlling them.
Paul campaign chairman Jesse Benton wouldn't discuss negotiations between the two camps or the timing of Paul's speech, but said, "We have been told that it will be a very prominent time."
Benton said by email that Ron Paul is not expected to speak, but that Romney representatives "are working with us (on) other ways to recognize and honor Ron at the convention.
"Dr. Paul will not seek to be nominated from the floor," he added.