Days before the convention opened, Lightweis and fellow Virginia delegate Matthew Hurtt attended a pro-Paul rally in Florida.

Most young voters supported President Barack Obama, a Democrat, four years ago, but Lightweis says Paul appeals to people like him.

“I just look forward to making a difference here in Tampa, and I look forward to more young people joining the Republican party,” he said.

Matthew Hurtt says delegates can help shape Republican ideals.

“You know, it's a two-party system in America and, if we want to see change, I'm convinced that we have to work within one of the two parties," he said.

Delegates are party activists, says professor of politics Jennifer Lawless, of American University in Washington.

“They're the people who are encouraging other people to get out and vote, and they're the ones that have really organized within their own states," she said.

She says it's vital for delegates to be happy and enthusiastic in order to turn out the votes for their candidate on election day.