Texas Congressman and Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul joined Florida Governor Rick Scott and Kentucky U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell on Sunday, discussing the state of his campaign and its prospects in the upcoming Florida primary.
Appearing on CNN’s State of the Union, the Texas Republican explained his strategy regarding the race for delegates, again noting that his campaign would bypass the Florida primary in favor of campaigning in Maine and Nevada.
“What am I doing in Maine? Why am I not in Florida? I came to get delegates, that’s what we’re doing here,” said Mr. Paul. “[A]fter spending two days plus up in Maine, I was very encouraged. The turnouts were fantastic. Usually overflow crowds. Tremendous enthusiasm. The other candidates aren’t paying much attention. The interest was phenomenal.”
Mr. Paul, who is currently trailing the rest of the Republican field in a series of recently released polls, has struggled to gain support in Florida, following his announcement to halt campaigning in the state, focusing rather on Maine and Nevada.
Speaking Sunday, Mr. Paul said the strategy could yield results, noting that both states have a relatively small number of delegates that could offset a loss in Florida. The Texas Republican also noted that recent campaign stops have left him confident that his campaign could find a breakthrough in terms of support.
“I think that’s a real good place for us to break through,” said Mr. Paul.
The Texas Republican, who has faced criticism in recent weeks regarding a series of controversial newsletters released under his name in past years, said Sunday that taking extra time to campaign in Maine may ultimately cost Mitt Romney, the former Massachusetts governor, support in the state.
“Romney’s been popular up there, but less so right now. So I would say that we have a very good chance,” said Mr. Paul. “We’re going to have an excellent showing. And I don’t know how many candidates really like to say, I am going to be in first place. Most of us don’t — don’t do that. I guess some do it. But I don’t think that’s very healthy.
