Report: Ron Paul to lead convention mutiny

WASHINGTON, May 12 (UPI) -- Maverick Republican Rep.Ron Paul is said to be working quietly on making the party's national convention less than smooth for presumptive nominee John McCain.

The Los Angeles Times reported on its political blog Monday that "an embarrassing public revolt" is in the works by the Texas congressman's camp and its allies, who don't see McCain as being conservative enough.

"They hope to demonstrate their disagreements with McCain vocally at the convention through platform fights and an attempt to get Paul a prominent speaking slot," the Times said.

The Times noted that even after Arizona senator had the nomination locked up, sizable numbers of Republicans were casting primary votes for Paul and conservatives Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney who had long ago dropped out of the race.

A lingering question is whether those voters will pitch in with McCain in November or continue to withhold support in protest and rally around Paul.