I don't understand how voting for Paul or Johnson is a "protest".
A protest is something you do that you normally would not do under everyday circumstances. Your idea of casting a "protest" vote here for Paul or Johnson is the same as saying you still want to OBEY the GOP, but don't like their chosen candidate.
In other words, you are still a Republican, just a minority within your own party. The GOP knows you will come around in November, just stick with 'em they will get it right next time, or maybe the time after that.
Why can't you just vote for the person you want to win, instead of protesting the party you choose to align yourself with?