Ron Paul vanquished the competition in the annual Virginia GOP retreat straw poll by collecting 182 votes (38%). Despite having former senator George Allen and current Virginia Attorney General Bob McDonnall speaking on his behalf, Fred Thompson managed only 112 votes (23%). While Mike Huckabee, who was represented by his wife, finished a distant third with 51 votes (11%).
Several long-time Republican leaders including conservative icon Morton Blackwell complemented the Paul campaign on their strong organization and mobilization efforts, according to Ron Paul National Field Director Dennis Fusaro, who spoke on Dr. Paul's behalf at the event. Fusaro went on to say that, while this reflects the organizational strength of the Paul campaign around the country, it is essential that Virginia Ron Paul Republicans replicate this turn-out on a county-by-county basis at next year's mass meetings. Fusaro went on to congratulate the grassroots for, once again, coming out to support Dr. Paul in an unprecedented manner.
Virginia GOP Retreat Straw Poll Results:
Ron Paul 182 (38%)
Fred Thompson 112 (23%)
Mike Huckabee 51 (11%)
Rudy Guiliani 45 (9%)
Mitt Romney 43 (9%)
John McCain 23 (5%)
Duncan Hunter 19 (4%)
Tom Tancredo 4 (<1%)
