With Ron Paul, GOP expects Wash. convention battle

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Republican leaders in Washington are bracing for a combative state convention as supporters of presidential candidate Ron Paul look to seize more delegates.

Paul devotees have fared well in caucus states, recently taking control of state conventions in Maine and Nevada.

Washington's convention at the end of this month offers yet another chance to add delegates so that the campaign can have more influence at the national convention in Florida.

State GOP chairman Kirby Wilbur says he expects Paul's campaign to pick up a minimum of six to nine delegates in Washington out of 40 possible. He expects Paul loyalists to use some aggressive gamesmanship to try and secure even more.

Paul supporters want the Texas congressman to have a speaking slot at the national convention and the chance to shape the party platform to emphasize limited government.