In an interview with the New York Times, Ron Paul detailed his conversations with Republican National Convention organizers, who he says offered him a speaking slot under conditions he couldn't meet.
According to Paul, convention planners offered the Texas congressman the chance to speak under two conditions: that he gave a speech pre-approved by Romney's campaign, and that he give a "full-fledged" endorsement of Mitt Romney.
“It wouldn’t be my speech," Paul said. "That would undo everything I’ve done in the last 30 years. I don’t fully endorse him for president."
While the libertarian candidate effectively ended his presidential bid when he announced that he would stop formally campaigning in May, many of his supporters have held on to the hope that Paul could amass enough support to challenge Romney's nomination. As the Associated Press points out, several hundred delegates are still pledged to support Paul.
Romney's camp has made attempts at mending fences with Paul and his devotees. CBS News reported that a video paying tribute to Paul will be played during the convention.
"While they certainly disagree on many issues, they always have had ... a mutual respect," Romney campaign strategist Russ Schriefer told CBS.
However, Paul's reluctance to give his rival a ringing endorsement should come as little surprise. In May, Paul campaign chairman Jesse Benton told reporters that formal backing was unlikely.
"I would never say never," he said. "I do not believe that that is likely."
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