Texas Republicans hold straw poll

FORT WORTH, Texas, Sept. 1 (UPI) -- The Texas Republican Party, following Iowa’s lead, is holding its first-ever straw poll this weekend.

Like the Iowa event, the Texas straw poll is a combination fundraiser for the state party and an unscientific and non-binding test of the Republican presidential candidates’ strength. In a bigger state than Iowa, the Texas poll is being held over two days at the Fort Worth Convention Center.

None of the top-tier candidates planned to be present, although all the candidates' names were on the ballot, The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported. Rep. Ron Paul of Texas, Rep. Duncan Hunter of California, Georgia mechanical engineer Ray McKinney, Alabama psychiatrist Hugh Cort and Illinois attorney John Cox planned to attend.

Those participating have to pay $75 for the privilege. Experts said that the straw poll could give a lift to some campaigns.

"This poll matters," said Bruce Buchanan, a political scientist at the University of Texas at Austin. "It doesn't have the cachet that Iowa does. But it could help whoever comes out of here with high margins get a little notoriety and attention.�