ATHENS, Ga. (AP) — Georgia's Republicans are gathering in Athens for their state convention with a message of unity, although some party divisions are on display.

Tea party activist Debbie Dooley called a news conference just as the convention kicked off Friday afternoon, announcing a large-scale voter outreach effort launching this year. Dooley says the effort is needed because activists feel they can't depend on national Republicans.

Dooley is also passing out stickers warning of "Republicans in name only," and calls it a message to GOP strategist Karl Rove who is set to address delegates on Saturday. Tea party activists say they're concerned by Rove's efforts to back certain candidates in GOP primaries. Others say Republicans must stay united to win elections.

On Saturday, delegates will elect a new state chair.