Despite the lack of an official appearance by Ron Paul at the Republican National Convention this week, supporters of the Texas congressman showed up enthusiastic and ready to party at the "We Are the Future Rally" held Sunday in the University of South Florida’s Sundome.
The rally, which featured everything from speakers on economics to an energizing "Ron Paul Anthem," attracted a wide variety of Paul supporters from across the nation.
Matthew Thomson, a volunteer at the event, traveled all the way from Michigan to take part in the rally, as well as attend the Paul Festival at the Florida State Fairgrounds this weekend.
"This is the first time I found a message that makes sense," Thomson said. "It is enduring, based on principles and Ron Paul is not trying to please special interests. It unites people."
This article appears in Aug 23-29, 2012.