Supporters of Texas Congressman Ron Paul have picked up all but five of the elected Minnesota delegate slots to the national Republican convention.
In a stark rejection of presumed nominee Mitt Romney, Republicans at their state convention picked 12 Paul supporters for 13 spots. Earlier, Paul backers claimed 20 of 24 delegates selected at local conventions.
U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann, whose name appeared on a Romney slate Saturday, did not initially get enough votes to join the Republicans going to Tampa. She only avoided a run-off election when a Paul supporter ceded to her.
The victory is the result of years of quiet organizing that has transformed the party.
Although the Paul backers say they want him represented in Tampa, with hopes to win Paul a speaking slot, they said they would work for Romney's election should he become the nominee.
