The Texas Republican Straw Poll is officially underway in Fort Worth.
The most popular candidate here, at least in terms of signs, buttons and supporters is Ron Paul. Just before 8am this morning, the Ron Paul crowd gathered outside the convention hotel and marched, in a large mob-like fashion, down to the convention center. They were all carrying signs, and chanting for Paul.
The atmosphere inside the convention center is much like a state Republican convention. There are booths occupied by candidate's staff, allied organizations and vendors. Grassroots folks, mostly the older set, are decked out in their campaign buttons, stickers and hats. However, there is decidedly less excitement, and lower turnout than at a state convention.
On the schedule this morning are speeches from U.S. Senator John Cornyn, one of the few statewide candidates on the Texas ballot in 2008, Michael Williams, a Railroad Commissioner in Texas (more to do with oil than trains), and a video address from Governor Rick Perry.
I'm heading down to the convention floor. More later.