Supporters/Media Await Congressman Ron Paul’s Status With Bated Breath

December 14, 2007

By Carl Fiser

(Long Island, N.Y.) “How is Ron Paul doing?” is the question of the day. Presidential candidate Ron Paul started off his campaign slowly, but it has gained strength and momentum with time. But from where in the woodwork is the strength and support coming? Is the support really even there? Is it still just a vociferous 50,000 on the internet? Are the traditional polls reported on by the major news networks correct? Could he still be in the single digits despite the clamor? Is Ron Paul’s Presidential campaign in need of resuscitation? Come on already, people! Is this not one of the oddest, contradictory things you’ve ever witnessed? Something is going on, and I want to get to the bottom of it!

Here, we have a man running for President of the United States. He’s seems like a decent, upstanding family man, served in the military, is a medical doctor and a ten-term representative in Congress. He’s not running for President like Donald Trump was running for President. He’s not Howard Stern or Al Sharpton. He’s not some quick-quipping novelty from Texas who is just out there on a soap box to tell us what’s wrong with our country. When he goes on the radio, the telephones light up like a Christmas tree - so I am told. When he appears on television, ratings soar - relatively speaking. One would think that such a star, such a ratings booster, would get the ol’ invite more often. I’ve seen video of people holding Ron Paul signs up around Hillary and Romney and Giuliani and McCain, at functions that were supposed to be theirs. Every so often, on my way home, some man holds up a Ron Paul sign to passing cars on Merrick Road . The other day, I saw a handmade banner hanging over a bridge on the Wantagh Parkway that read “Google Ron Paul If You Love America”. We’re still a year from the election! Are these people nuts, or are they excited for a logical reason? Are they a small, vociferous swath, or are they a pervasive presence?

So, I’ve been asking my family and friends here on Long Island what they think of Ron Paul. More than half hadn’t heard of him. So, I’m thinking, maybe the polls are right. If less than half of my family and friends recognized the name Ron Paul, then it’s possible that less than half of those being polled would know him enough to vote for him in a poll. Putting this into numbers, let’s say that 1 out of every 4 people recognize his name as a candidate. Of that 25%, perhaps 1 out of every 4 people would vote for him in an election. Now we’re talking about 6.25%, and maybe that’s why he’s polling in the single digits. Some of you disagree. Some of you suggest that the polls are skewed because they are designed to marginalize Ron Paul.

All conjecture aside, now that I think I’ve shown cause for the poll numbers, let’s get to the meat of this article. Why do only 1 in 4 Americans recognize the name Ron Paul? Rep. Paul is a serious contender, and I feel that all Americans should know their choices. What? Wait. You question whether he is a contender at all? But I just explained above that he is as serious as any of the other candidates. On top of that, he has this grassroots effort to get a blimp in the air with his name all over it. He’s a top money-raiser, too, with $5 million last quarter, $11.4 million so far this quarter and some big internet fundraiser happening on December 16th to commemorate the Boston Tea Party. He’s leading the Republican pack where the dollars are concerned. Anyway, this contender should be getting more press - at least as much as his peers - and that’s the point of me writing to you today. As a journalist, I don’t give a hoot if Ron Paul wins or loses, but I demand that the choice of Americans not be impaired or diverted by media outlets. It is unethical and un-American, not to mention dangerous, for the press to have undue influence over who Americans choose to serve them in public office. Of course, I know that it happens all the time. I am not blind to that fact. But, regardless of whether those at a particular network or periodical love, hate or are indifferent toward a candidate, the candidate should still get fair coverage and fair time.

This candidate I speak of, Ron Paul, has been excepted from polls, excepted from coverage and been given fewer questions at debates. I’ve seen it with my own eyes. Stop telling me that it’s not happening! He has been laughed at, ridiculed and deflated. While other candidates are treated respectfully, like contenders, in interviews, Dr. Paul is not. “What’s success for you in this campaign?” “To win,” Ron Paul answered. “That’s not going to happen,” replied George Stephanopoulos on This Week With George Stephanopoulis - 7/8/07. “You probably are not going to win, and you know that, right?” Joy Behar, The View, 12/4/07. “I think we both know that the Republican Party is not going to give you the nomination,” was part of a question asked by Mark Strauss and aired to Ron Paul at CNN’s debate on 11/28/07. Additionally, he is asked either or both of the following questions whenever televised: (1) Which of your Republican opponents would you endorse for office, and (2) Are you going to run as an independent? Are my peers trying to convince Americans that a vote for Ron Paul is a wasted vote? That’s what it sounds like to me.

Some of you may remember me as the writer who penned “Ron Paul Bears Empty Pot For Americans” in which I compared the Congressman to a character in a story who was rewarded for his truthfulness. Many questioned the title, as many will probably question the title of this article, but such titles are necessary, necessary to break the word of his candidacy through to you. In fact, many times, when you read a seemingly negative title or seemingly negative words about Ron Paul, keep in mind that it may be the only way to get Ron Paul’s name out in public and shave down some of the imbalance. One of the most obvious examples of this was when a writer named Ken Layne wrote a story that was featured on AOL’s home page on the morning of December 7th. He used words of ridicule both for Ron Paul supporters and their plan to launch a Ron Paul blimp, but in so doing, that writer greatly raised awareness that there was a deadline that very night by which $200,000 had to be raised in order for the blimp idea to fly. In fact, Mr. Layne most probably helped to save the blimp idea. There are people - hidden people - all over the place, at all levels, doing their best to ensure that Americans get a fair shake at this election process. Some of them not only want to ensure even coverage of the candidates but also are closet Ron Paul fans. For one reason or another, though, they cannot say so.

Before I conclude this interactive article, I’d like briefly to comment on the comments I received to the “Empty Pot” article. In the hours shortly after publication, I received so many accolades, I feared that I had only reached those who already knew and loved Ron Paul. Although I appreciated the sentiments, I viewed the article as a failure. However, in the ensuing days, I saw more and more comments from people who had not been familiar with the name Ron Paul. Some of those newcomers disagreed with the “Paul system” of adhering strictly to the Constitution. Some were enthralled with his concepts, and still others promised to research him more thoroughly. Also, there are two particular groups of comments that I wish to address, and it may seem like I’m being partial, but I’m willing to take that risk.

Some comments intimated and others downright shouted that Ron Paul has been an impotent legislator and therefore would make an impotent President. In response, I must point out that a congressman is just 1 of 435 representatives in the House. The House of Representatives is half of the Legislative Branch of the Federal Government. The Legislature is 1 of 3 branches. That gives any given congressman .00038 worth of a say in Washington. Now, if that congressman were elected President, he or she would then account for one-third of the Federal Government. Not only would his or her exposure be 1,000 times greater, but arguably, his or her mathematical influence is increased to .33333, and that’s 877 times more of a say than a single congressman. Therefore, the assertion that the insurmountable stone walls a congressman encounters in Congress will necessarily make him an ineffective President holds no water. The second group of comments made attempt to argue that Ron Paul would never beat Hillary Clinton because he does not have enough name recognition. Well, if it’s not obvious to you that anybody who gets the Republican Party’s nomination will be catapulted into a household name, then you don’t know much about the world.

In conclusion, we need answers. I know that those who will read this article are familiar with the opportunity to make comments at the end, but I propose that this be a first of its kind. This article is incomplete, and I am asking not that you merely comment on the article, but that you finish it with your comments. I want to read and learn. Just as I’ve shared my unique perspective on who recognizes Ron Paul in my neck of the woods called Long Island, I’d like you to share what you think his recognition level is in your area. Am I way off base with anything I’ve said? I need real answers from real people across the country because the signals out there are conflicting. I await the truth of the situation with bated breath.

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202 Responses to “Supporters/Media Await Congressman Ron Paul’s Status With Bated Breath”

Klutometis on December 14th, 2007 2:40 pm

Great article, Carl; you’ve summed up the unspoken tension surrounding Ron Paul beautifully.

Uncommitted journalists may say things like, “it’s going to be an exciting election cycle!” But it’s not true, really: Ron Paul bates breath, while the other candidates deprive it.

That’s why I yawn so hideously during the 95% percent of any debate this season where Ron Paul is forced to stand behind an idle microphone.

- Posted by: Klutometis
David Barker on December 14th, 2007 2:44 pm

I have found that in San Francisco CA most people know the name. Among the youth it seems half and half. Either they’ve never heard of him, because they they’ve never heard of any candidate and they don’t care about politics… or they’re out there passing out fliers and waving signs with me.

The only people I’ve met who know of Paul and don’t support him fall into two camps. Those who have been misinformed about his position on some pet issue by a slanderous media. Or those who truly and openly profess to want more regulation and bigger government.

- Posted by: David Barker
M_arcus on December 14th, 2007 2:46 pm

Thank you for your article. As ever, the challenge for Dr. Paul is one of exposure, and your article helps.

For me, Dr. Paul’s campaign represents the hope that our public discourse, and indeed our very lives, might once again become focused on the timeless principles upon which our nation was founded. All students of history know that empires fall when they become bloated, decadent and over-extended. In my view, Dr. Paul’s campaign represents what is perhaps our last best chance to break our gaze away from Brittney’s crotch, to tune out the droning punditocracy, and to finally and once again address the abiding gift of our birthright as Americans…LIBERTY. The fact that Dr. Paul’s positions are widely viewed as radical is a blistering indictment of the depths to which we’ve fallen. Wake up, sheeple!

- Posted by: M_arcus
Artus Register on December 14th, 2007 2:47 pm

People are constantly clammoring about chenge, yet ignore the opportunity for change when it knocks. The media, by contrast, seems enthraled with perpetuating this rigged game and keeping any new voices silent. It isn’t the candidate, it is the message. Obama is clearly a newcomer to the political arena, but what has he brought in terms of new ideas? Nothing.
What is most puzzling of all is how Republicans can get excited about any of the neocon clones running against Dr. Paul. All are unapologetic war mongers and not a one can defeat Hillary.
As to Dr. Paul’s polling numbers, an obvious truth is being ignored. This campaign appeals most to the politically apathetic, and the anti-war voters. People who haven’t voted in many years, registered independents and Democrats who can vote in open primary states are not being polled about the GOP primaries, yet these are exactly the people who can usher in a victory.
Yes, the media is ignoring the Paul campaign, and when they aren’t they are marginalizing it with lies and half truths. But that isn’t the whole story.
People, too are ignoring the swelling desire for freedom. In their hearts they love the tax-and-spend nanny state, the mountains of regulation, the absurd wastefullness of government. If not, they would be embracing the opposite while they still have the chance.

- Posted by: Artus Register
Russ Mason on December 14th, 2007 2:48 pm

If Ron Paul does not have much in the way of name recognition, one must turn to the larger media outlets and ask them why. The same may be said, incidentally, for Mike Gravel and Dennis Kucinich - they don’t receive much attention either; but they do not have the towering grassroots support that Paul has.

The answer may not be a comfortable one: that the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), with its vast and pervasive influence in the media, industry and finance, tends to favor those candidates who are CFR members. These include Clinton, Obama, Edwards, Biden, Dodd, Giuliani, Romney, Thompson and possibly Huckabee.

Since the early 1920’s the CFR has steered U.S. policy on a number of initiatives: our involvement in the U.N, in NATO, GATT, the WTO, NAFDA and the likely merger with Canada and Mexico into the North American Union. The agenda is ultimately a global government, and the end of U.S. sovereignty. In a recent YouTube/CNN debate, Ron Paul was asked about this, and he confirmed that the CFR was a “conspiracy of ideas” - to which no one objected. But he went futher; that Paul–alone among the republicans—opposes any program or institution that would rid the U.S. of its sovereignty.

What needs to be clearly stated: the heads of CNN, FOX, NBC, ABC, CBS, the New York Times, and other major dailies, are all members of the CFR. This includes Rupert Murdoch, George Stephanopolous, Diane Sawyer, Chris Wallace, Wolf Blitzer and about 4,500 more. It is an elite organization, to which one must be invited. At its head is David Rockefeller. He states, on page 405 of his Memoirs, that not only is he in favor of a global government (which would eradicate the U.S. and its status as a sovereign nation) but that he is “proud of it.” His father, John D. Rockefeller, helped to establish the CFR during the Wilson administration. Rockefeller also helped establish the Federal Reserve Bank - a privately owned institution.

The question has never been put to the American public if the dissolution of the Republic is something they might consider. It is a fair and good question. No one knows what the consequences might be, but it would seem a sad and unfair end to our nice country if it came to pass. This is what Ron Paul has consistently opposed. I support him in this opposition. I like the U.S. just fine. It is a wonderful country with - at the moment - a lousy government.

- Posted by: Russ Mason
Brian on December 14th, 2007 2:50 pm

Wonderful article. Really just great. About time someone in the media acknowledge that the MSM is completely biased towards Paul and want to suppress the choices we have. The worst part is I keep seeing polls shown on the MSM that would have candidates with LOWER polling than Paul, and Paul not shown at all. Bill O’Reilly has a poll with only 4 candidates. It’s atrocious.

Thanks again

- Posted by: Brian
Helena Handbasket on December 14th, 2007 2:51 pm

Everyone should know: The “wasted vote” argument is mathematically meritless.

The argument goes, “Vote for Paul and Hillary will win! Don’t vote for Paul so that Rudy Rompson has a chance of winning.” The first fallacy is not realizing that Rudy Rompson IS A CLONE OF HILLARY. There is no benefit to any other Republican nominee.

The second fallacy is not realizing that, even if Rudy Rompson were only “the lesser of two evils”, so-called “strategic voting” for him does not increase the odds of getting what you want! It is only in theory that if all Ronpaulicans were persuaded to vote neocon, the neocon would win. In reality, “strategic voting” blocs are overpowered by the common person’s good sense in voting for WHO YOU WANT.

Elections are simply bloodless battles. When multiple armies are being mustered to see which is larger, WHO would be so disloyal as to abandon a sworn leader to defect to an army which is NOT demonstrably larger NOR more likely to win? Who would dare follow the lying siren song of the media if it means betraying your conscience?

It is provably impossible for any election with more than two choices (i.e., any real election) to be fair in all respects. This is war. Follow your leader. Captain Ron Paul, U.S. Air Force. As of today, he’s commander-in-chief of Ron Paul One, the blimp whose inaugural flight began 8:59 EST today.

- Posted by: Helena Handbasket
Tom on December 14th, 2007 2:52 pm

Another great article…
I am a Canadian who spends every day on the internet spreading Ron Paul’s message of peace personal liberties and return to the Constitutional foundation.
Since childhood growing up in Communist Poland my hero was Thomas Paine.Today I have a new hero a man in whose defense I would gladly take a bullet in the head.
Here are a few websites to learn more about Ron.
www.ronpaul2008.com
www.dailypaul.com
www.ronpaullibrary.org
www.teaparty07.com

- Posted by: Tom
Travis on December 14th, 2007 2:53 pm

I don’t think the majority of Americans even realize that there is an election being held in a couple months. Most people don’t think about president till somewhere around October of election year .. well after the party has anointed their “lesser of two evils”. I have this opinion because I was one of them. I never realized how important Primary elections are. Neither did my family or most my friends. We all just figure that the most we could do was pick between the presented Democrat and Republican. We never really thought hard enough to realize we could make a difference about who the Republican or Democrat would be.

Fortunately, some people knew what was going on and plastered a Ron Paul REVOLution poster around the corner from my office. I “Googled” him and realized for the first time that not all politics are bad. That if people cared and were educated enough we could fix this country and return it to what it was meant to be.

It’s true what they say “Ron Paul cured my apathy”. I will vote in every Primary from this day forward and I will do my best to keep my friends and family involved and educated as well.

Americans have gotten lazy. They don’t realize what is wrong, let alone how to fix it. Education is the key and hope for this nation.

- Posted by: Travis
Anne Webster on December 14th, 2007 2:56 pm

I personally meet a lot of people who either haven’t heard of him or have only heard the MSM view of him as crazy…I am doing my part to tell everyone I can. My tagline is “You don’t have to agree with Ron Paul and what he believes, because his core belief is in majority rule - not dictatorship” I have a lot of fellow friends (mostly those of alternative lifestyles) that will cringe when I say Republican, but when I explain that just because he is pro-life, doesn’t mean that he believes that should be the law…it’s all about freedom and liberty…I have even recruited quite a few of my in-laws in Michigan….now that’s a powerful message !

- Posted by: Anne Webster
RP2008 on December 14th, 2007 2:57 pm

Interesting article and I think you do make some good points. I would like to take this “out-of-box” for a second. Most people that are going to vote know who Ron Paul is. Most people that follow politics know who Ron Paul is. If they have watched the debates or followed any of the Republican events, they have at some point heard Ron Paul speak and know where he stands. I doubt most people of which can’t even identify all candidates within at least one party is going to go out and cast a vote, because if they do not have the motivation or care to research the candidates and what they stand for why would they take out some time to go cast a vote for one of those candidates? With that being said, the Ron Paul supporters WILL show up and vote because they understand the importance of this election. Snow, hurricanes, tornados, eathquakes, the Paul supports WILL be there…perhaps not all of them, but the majority of them. Can we say that about any other candidates? Nope. This is going to be a battle within the Republican party for the time being, and needles to say, Paul has the strongest and most dedicated supporters. That is whats going to make the difference when it comes down to it…dedication to the candidates and voter turnout. Paul has that advantage, take a look at the straw polls for example. This factor can not be measured into the traditional polls that is viewed by the MSM, which is why his single-digit polling numbers simply won’t matter. He has a lot of surprises coming and unfortunately many just won’t get it. Look how the MSM battles with it now, they simply can’t comprehend his support and the amount of money he has raised and have to manifest excuses for it. This is going to be interesting to watch….

- Posted by: RP2008
George Whitfield on December 14th, 2007 2:57 pm

I live in Seoul, Korea and just returned home from a Ron Paul 2008 Meetup Group meeting and there were 9 Americans attending (and 1 South African citizen). Our Meetup Group has 35 members including Americans in Korea too far from Seoul to attend regularly. We participated in a Straw Poll held by Republicans Abroad Korea in late Novemeber and Ron Paul won with 50% of the vote. We are now writing letters to voters in Iowa and South Carolina. No other US Presidential candidate has a volunteer group in Korea. The support for Ron Paul for President is real and growing.

- Posted by: George Whitfield
Sk00L on December 14th, 2007 2:59 pm

Mr. Fiser too bad most media does not prize fair, balanced, responsible, journalism you sir would have your pick of employment if that was the case. Thank you for your coverage.

- Posted by: Sk00L
Dirk on December 14th, 2007 3:00 pm

Thanks for a great analysis. The major media outlets are owned and controlled by the same cabal of elites that owns and controls the top levels of the Republican and Democratic parties. They’re not going to allow hardly any coverage of a candidate who is actually sticking up for the little guy and wants to dismantle the criminal syndicate that has controlled our country for so many decades. Too bad there are not more journalists like you who desire to present all options to the people and then let them decide for themselves.

- Posted by: Dirk
TerdFerguson on December 14th, 2007 3:04 pm

“As a journalist, I don’t give a hoot if Ron Paul wins or loses, but I demand that the choice of Americans not be impaired or diverted by media outlets. It is unethical and un-American, not to mention dangerous, for the press to have undue influence over who Americans choose to serve them in public office.”

Thank you. Thank you very much. Truer words have never been spoken. The presidential election truly is mostly a popularity contest with the leaders for each party being those with the most name recognition not necessarily those with the best platform and ideas. This is perpetuated by the media. I refuse to let the media choose or influence my choice for my. Do your homework and choose the best candidate. For me it’s Ron Paul.

- Posted by: TerdFerguson
S Hall on December 14th, 2007 3:05 pm

First off, excellent article.

However, I think your deduction of Ron Paul’s polling numbers is probably a little inaccurate. I think he is probably registering between 6 - 8% of people who voted Republican in the last election, and have land-lind phones.

I think he has at least that much support from individuals who have never voted, or do not have land-lines, or who were registered Democrats or Independents last election. So, to assume he only garners mid to upper single digits I think is a little on the low side.

I, like you, find it fascinating that he registers seemingly so low in the polls, yet he has more visible supporters than any of the other candidates - Republican or Democrat. Something just doesn’t add up. He wins the majority of the straw polls, most online polls, has more supporters show up at his rallies, debates, etc… than other candidates, and as you pointed out, his supporters show up at other candidate’s functions.

I live in Alabama, we have our primary on Super Tuesday, but so far there are no political advertisements, signs, etc… Except when you drive around town you see Ron Paul signs, people passing out literature, cars decorated with “Google Ron Paul” and “Who is Ron Paul?” so again, something doesn’t add up. I’ve yet to see one Huckabee, Giuliani, Clinton, Obama, etc.. sign. They may have name recognition, but as far as I can tell they have no ground support.

How many people actually vote in the primaries anyway? Huckabee may be polling in the 20%, but will all those 20% go out and vote? I have to believe that anyone supporting Ron Paul will make it to the voting booth no matter what. So it’s not really how many people “say” they will vote for you, it’s how many will actually go out and vote for you.

If you support Ron Paul, I believe you have taken the time to research his views and have a strong reason for supporting him. In fact, you have to. As you pointed out, he doesn’t get the media attention he deserves - and if anything, the attention he does get is usually slanted against him. So, unlike a Huckabee or Romney where you hear a 15 second sound bite in a debate and think “hey, i like that guy, he’s a Christian… or he’s a smooth talker” in order to support Paul you have to do your own research. And I think that’s why his followers are so passionate. They actually understand the issues. They realize what he is saying and how much sense it makes and how the other candidates are just playing the political game. Once you do take the time to understand what Dr Paul is saying, and then you hear the other candidates speak on the issues, it only solidifies your belief in the man.

He speaks the truth, which is a rarity in today’s political world, but he also has solutions for the problems. Other candidates talk about not raising taxes and cutting spending, but they never give anything solid on how they would do it.

I have to believe that if the media would give Dr Paul the attention he deserves that he would be the front-runner by far. I know I’m biased, but his message is simple. If you like freedom then you’ll like him. Once you understand the financial crisis we’re in, his message rings loud and clear. We can’t continue down the road we’re on, we are headed for a financial disaster. No other candidate has even addressed this - either they have no idea how to fix it, or they don’t understand enough about it to even realize there is a problem.

Dr Paul understands the issues, has the knowledge to fix the problems, he just needs some help from the media to get his message out. My complaint with that, isn’t that Ron Paul is being done wrong, it’s that the American people are being done wrong. By not letting his message be heard, how can anyone make an informed decision?

It’s a shame our media elects our president. It’s also a shame that most people spend more time watching sports and sitcoms than they do keeping up with our presidential election.

- Posted by: S Hall
CanadaGirlsLoveRon on December 14th, 2007 3:06 pm

wow. finally someone in the media gets it. the passion we feel for Ron can only be compared to a woman that falls in love with a man and none of her family and friends support the decision yet she loves him even more for it.

we dont want the arranged marriage the media is trying to push on us. we’ve come to love liberty and honesty and for those of us who’ve seen what Ron Paul has to offer we could only walk down the aisle and make a commitment to one candidate.

Thank you so much for this article.

- Posted by: CanadaGirlsLoveRon
thomas on December 14th, 2007 3:06 pm

Thanks for the proper coverage. You are right about everything you stated, but I wish comments about the “CFR” and other conspiracy groups would stop. It is obvious that there are people who believe a one-world government would be an amazing place. What would be wrong with it? Not much, but for America we would be marginalized and they don’t like that.

Personally I am for Ron Paul, but I am a commie/socialist/oneworldorder person. I do not think we are ready for equality for everyone though. Until the government gets downsized and liberties are restored and our international approval rating is higher, increasing our government and corruption will only cause us more harm. With a massive deficit there isn’t much hope that we can build a connected world with America as a major player. Funding a military empire while our liberties are stripped at home is not the way to establish trade and negotiation with everyone.

The purpose of America forming a one world government is to spread our freedoms and love to everyone, not impose them through military force while stripping our people of liberties simultaneously. Ron Paul is more like a sidestep to avoid walking into a pit of spikes. After his term ends the next presidents would surely truck on to the world government. This sidestep is necessary and for that I support Ron Paul.

I wish the media who sees the value in a connected world would realize that this is the reason we need Ron Paul, and this is the reason they should give him coverage and represent him.

- Posted by: thomas
Rick Honer on December 14th, 2007 3:07 pm

I think you have nailed what is going on. Up here in NH most folks I talk to have no idea who Ron Paul is. However, folks who are watching and listening and intend to vote in our primary have heard of him. And the support is pretty strong.

It will taj\ke a LOT of prime exposure for the average folks to get a real look at Ron Paul. The character of this man is something they need to know about. They need to know why his supporters are heard to say “I’d take a bullet for Ron Paul.”

And, average folks really need to know about his politics and ideas. They take time to digest and understand.

Thanks for such a fine article. A pleasure to read.

- Posted by: Rick Honer
mary ellen on December 14th, 2007 3:07 pm

Voters say they want honest men to run for office and yet ignore a statesman like Ron Paul. I do not understand this!! Why the media blackout on Paul? Is this really America. I feel like I am living in a Orwellian world. Yesterday I was listening to Rush Limbaugh and I heard him call Ron Paul a kook. I have been a Rush Limbaugh fan for almost 8 years and agreed on most issues but with that remark I see him for what he is, a corporate owned media whore who sits in his mansion, popping viagra and Lord knows what else….I turned off the radio and will never listen to him again. EVER. He has no credibility with me anymore! When I got home yesterday I went to the Ron Paul Tea Party site and made my pledge. I have never dontated to politician until now but I will give one hundred dollars on the 16th. I told my family not to expect gifts except homemade cookies and fudge. I feel like I am donating to the future generations, the kids and the yet to be born. I thank GOD that people like Thomas Jefferson and Ben Franklin stood up against tyranny and now it is this generations turn to stand up for Liberty. The Republic must be restored before this country is simply unrecognizable.

- Posted by: mary ellen
Dina on December 14th, 2007 3:07 pm

Thanks again for an article that will hopefully wake up America to what is happening right under their noses. What right does the MEDIA have to present only the candidates that THEY want to see win this election? How dare they limit our choices to whomever they like. It is Un_American and it IS a Travesty.

Couple that with the voter fraud capabilities of the Diebold Memory Cards (The tally cards) and what do we have? We don’t have a true democracy, that is for sure.

I also agree with the poster up thread who stated that everyone they have introduced Ron Paul to is now a supporter. The same scenario applies to me. I have spent a lot of time and effort to bring my friends and family on board this campaign, and if it wasn’t for those of us - active grassroots supporters, we would not be where we are today.

It’s time that the truth of what Main Stream MEDIA is doing is un-covered for what it is. Thanks again!! I’ve sent your article to everyone on my distribution list.

- Posted by: Dina
Dina on December 14th, 2007 3:10 pm

PLEASE PASS THE WORD - The Ron Paul phenomenon will be airing on PBS TONIGHT @ 8:30 PM EST.

- Posted by: Dina
Leo on December 14th, 2007 3:14 pm

Great article! Thank You!

- Posted by: Leo
Kathy Fisher on December 14th, 2007 3:14 pm

I believe, with few exceptions, that Ron Paul’s name has been spread by word of mouth and the internet. The few articles and interviews written by “reporters” nearly always headline his views on the Fed, immigration, gold standard etc., with no explanation as to his philosophies or policy ideas, intimating that he will be a dictator of sorts or is a crazy conspiracy theorist.
Six months ago, my 33 yr old son asked me if I knew Ron Paul. I wracked my memory, assuming it was an old family acquaintance. I “googled” Ron Paul and I have been a supporter ever since. Living in a rural community in NC, I can vouch for the fact that his supporters are an educated, highly committed, diverse group of aware citizens. From college students to native born truckers, from musicians to lawyers, from grandmothers (Warriorgrannies.com) to Accountants. Each has his own political philosophy, not always agreeing with each other or Ron Paul but they all have one goal… to get this man elected.. to save this country. As my son said. “Ron Paul can not accomplish all his goals, but he can at least PUT THE BRAKES ON”

- Posted by: Kathy Fisher
jim cantwell on December 14th, 2007 3:16 pm

Great article. I’m an american living in Italy. I came across Ron Paul having used the internet to find articles on subjects that mattered to me and his name kept coming up. I’ve never voted or donated to a political campaign before. I’m a full believer in Ron Paul, his honest motivations and the policies he advocates. My experience is the same as yours. It is very disheartening to me that when I speak with Americans about Ron Paul, most have not heard of him. Because I speak passionately about him, I have a pretty good hit rate in terms of getting people to look him up. Those that do sincerely, become fervent followers, but they remain few.

While we’re ranting, my pet peeve is the constant questioning of the media as to why Ron Paul has such a fervent internet following and the other candidates just don’t seem to be able to accomplish the same. I scream at my computer and television screens, “it isn’t a strategy. It’s Ron Paul’s policies (small government, non-intervention, adherence to the Constitution, etc.) and a belief that he sincerely believes what he says and will stick to these principles that has created this loyalty. The internet is simply a very effective tool for the Paul followers, like myself, to follow his progress and communicate with other like-minded people.

I hope he wins. If he doesn’t, I hope this group of people who share the Ron Paul values will find new ways to make a political impact.

- Posted by: jim cantwell
Christopher on December 14th, 2007 3:19 pm

This article was beautiful.

- Posted by: Christopher
Robert Eschauzier on December 14th, 2007 3:21 pm

Carl, I never thanked you for the “Empty Pot” article which I thoroughly enjoyed - thanks.

Here is my take on the whole election awareness math and polls issue.

1. Typically less than half of the population (me included) takes any meaningful interest in politics and/or votes in national elections. So if you find that about half of the people you encounter actually know Dr. Paul’s name, that is really neither shocking to me nor alarming.

2. “Scientific” polls tacitly aknowledge this by seeking to question only people with a history of prior participation in elections. So far so good. The problem is that this does not allow for an unexpected influx of new participants (me included again) even if it is one of major proportions. This is exactly the condition we face today.

3. At the ballot box, what matters not is how many people knew the name of a particular candidate, but how many of those who who did also had the enthousiasm to get up and actually vote on the appointed day. While a polling technique might be developed which takes all of the above into account, I suspect that none exists today.

4. I am not convinced that all of these pollsters are malisciously supressing Ron Paul’s numbers. I suspect that in view of the above and their likely belief in the validity of what they consider “scientific method”, they are simply incapable of seeing the 600 lb gorilla standing right behind them.

Conclusion: The caucus round in Iowa and primaries in NH may wind up providing results which turn out to be very different from anything the pollsters could have possibly seen coming.

- Posted by: Robert Eschauzier
Barbara Costello on December 14th, 2007 3:23 pm

I became educated about Ron Paul on the internet and that did it for me. My eyes are now opened and I am doing everything possible to get him elected. I have never given treasure or time to a politician, but Dr. Paul is no politician, he is a statesman. The issue of our declining economy and dollar really sounded the alarm. Nobody talks about waging the war while borrowing 3 billion a day from the Red Chinese and Japanese. Also, I was unaware that every other candidate running is a member of the CFR and promoters of the North American Union. I’m for American and her soverignty and so is Congressman Paul.

- Posted by: Barbara Costello
Aaron on December 14th, 2007 3:23 pm

In rural America, Ron Paul is well known and has a great deal of support. Last summer my family went on a backpacking trip in Utah and during our drive through Wyoming, we saw a huge Ron Paul sign in the middle of a small town. I even saw a recent unscientific poll that suggests that Ron Paul is leading in Alaska.

I think that the internet is doing what the MSM is not doing. Part of the reason that network news and newspaper subscriptions are dying on the vine, is that most people realize that these institutions are terribly biased an unfair.

Why is Ron Paul exciting conservatives, liberals, libertarians, progressives, and everybody in between? He follows the true intent and meaning of the U.S. Constitution. The Constitution was written to limit government, not people. This means that it established an extremely free system that includes super low taxation, limited government, and a great deal of decentralization of political power (obviously not to the extent of the failed Articles of Confederation). The right to be left alone to freely associate, private property rights, and the free-market economy were enshrined with our Constitution.

Ron is also communicating a foreign policy that was advocated by the Founders. Thomas Jefferson in his inaugural address stated that we should have “Peace, commerce and honest friendship with all nations; entangling alliances with none.” This is all that Ron is trying to say.

- Posted by: Aaron
Angela on December 14th, 2007 3:24 pm

Thank you for this article. I am 40 years old and the mother of four children. I have a degree in Political Science. I have been a registered Democrat my entire life and always voted-mainly for Democrats. Ron Paul is the first person who seems honest. I don’t have to agree with everything he stands for but at least, for the first time in my life–I don’t have to worry about a person I vote for flip-flopping to appease anyone. I am changing my party affiliation to Republican just to vote for this man. With the help of You Tube videos, I have also (so far) convinced four other family members (who actually vote in elections) to also vote for Ron Paul. I take classes at FAU in Florida and want to say thanks to the students who brought my attention to this campaign. The college students work really hard to spread the information………sadly our network media largely ignores information and instead promotes opinions. Good thing we can access the Internet for information.

- Posted by: Angela
leeaustex on December 14th, 2007 3:26 pm

Great article and you nailed it. Last week I wrote 100 letters to IA independent voters and am in the process of calling 150 IA registered republicans, and I talk to everyone I can about the Dr to get out his message of Liberty, Prosperity and A strong National Defense (not offense - big difference). Most people I talk with have 1) known who he is and support him already 2) haven’t heard of him and listen intently and are intrigued by his constitutional stance and long principled stand (doesn’t take his congressional pention - WOW, returns part of his office budget to the treasury every year to save me, the tax payer, some money - Jeez this guy is different) or 3) have heard of hima nd don’t understand his positions or believe one of the misguided negative hit stories that are out there, but once cleared up, if they don’t support him at least recognize him as being an honest, forthright and sincere individual.

For the media to marginalize him the way they do is simply sickening. Being from TX I’ve know about Dr. Ron for a long time and when I heard he was running for president I was excited to no end, but I almost fell into the “he’s unelectable” pitfall. Fortunately I did not become part of the apathetic problem. If all of the people that I talk to who say that he is not a viable candidate, but they like him, would give him their support there is no doubt in my mind that Dr. Paul would be the next POTUS.

And here’s just a tidbit about the state of the average Republican using my father as an example. He has voted republican his whole life and has even toyed with the idea of running for congress in MO. He now supports Ron Paul, despite disagreeing with him about Iraq. He does agree with him though about our troops in Korea, Europe etc,. The rest of Dr. Paul’s stances, he says, are what made him a Goldwater and a Reagan supporter. This is the core of the Republican party. My long time republican father says, that if Guiliani (If one can’t honor your oaths to your family, how could one honor an oath to one’s nation and countrymen) wins, he’ll vote libertarian, same with Mitt (health care statist) and I haven’t spoken with him since the Huckabee “rape and release” (that guy came to MO to do a little more raping and killing) issue broke, but knowing him he’d likely go Libertarian if he got the Nomination now as well. My father is no kook, no conpiracy theorist and is very much your average middle america, wife and kids, served in the military, Republican. But he just doesn’t see the Republican party today as representing what it once was and what he’d like it to be. I just don’t think that the media or the other Republicans in the race see or want to admit what is going on here. There is a sea change coming, dare I say r3VOLution on its way.

www.Teaparty07.com - Join the Party - end the inflation tax and as Dr. Paul urges us everyday - Let’s have some FUN!

- Posted by: leeaustex
Mair, Baltimore, MD on December 14th, 2007 3:28 pm

My word!!
A journalist calling the media on their biasness.
I’m impressed!
And THANK YOU!

- Posted by: Mair, Baltimore, MD
Aaron Andrus on December 14th, 2007 3:29 pm

Wow! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!
Thank you for an exceptionally honest article. You are truly a gentleman and a scholar ;).

I am from southern Louisiana and Ron Paul has virtually no name recognition at this time. The only responses I’ve gotten when “proselytizing” is: “Who is that?” (9/10) or “Oh, he’s a flake!” (1/10). The conservative base here is beholden to FoxNews and the Hannity ilk who seem to despise Paul and try illegitimize any recognition he gets. The rest of the MSM simply dismissed him or as you point out - puts him in the loser category immediately.

However, I spend a good deal of my free time online - in religioius forums, etc - and I’ve got to tell you - he truly has a following among us “post-modern” types. I mean after all, his message is “Christian” at its core - peace, freedom and prosperity for all. I voted Bush in ‘00 for a “humble” foreign policy (yeah right) and because he was a “compassionate conservative” (please). I voted for him again (although I almost voted Libertarian) ONLY to keep Kerry OUT. I am not a Socialist - therefor I am not a DEMOCRAT. However - a move to the “right” in voting Republican has only yielded a small step in the other direction - if any at all. The Welfare-Warfare State MUST end - either chaotically or peacefully - but it will come to a close either way.

Ron Paul is an honest man. A straight talker. He talks and walks the same game. No matter what you think about him (kook is really inappropriate seeing that he stands with Jefferson and other founding fathers on his foreign policy and decentralized govt at home), after researching his history you have to agree that he is a man of principles and is not beholden to special interests or the swayings of polls/popular interests. His 10 terms as congressman are indicative of a man whom his constiuents support - especially given that the Republican party campaigned against him for the seat.

I honestly believe that Paul will shock the status quo. I think his support is much broader and deeper than realized and IF he gets more recognition - I think you will be looking at a presidential nomination and a Republican landslide in 08. But hey - I’m just one of his “spammers”.

- Posted by: Aaron Andrus
Matt on December 14th, 2007 3:31 pm

Nice Article,

I only recently learned of Ron Paul. I believe it was his appearences on The Daily Show and The Colbert Report that interested me in finding out more. After weeks of my own research, I decided this was the man and the message for me. I have since donated, joined a meetup group and purchased 2 T-shirts. I wear them out when I play in my Dart leagues because that is where I run into a lot of people and have the opportunity to talk to them for a few minutes. The one shirt says Who is Ron Paul? and when someone reads it they always say “Who IS Ron Paul?” Over half of the people I talk to don’t even follow politics because they think that politicians and lawyers are essentially the same and don’t trust anything they say. They have resigned themselves to the fact that they have no say and no power, that the government reached some critical mass long ago that allows it to be a self serving entity and not one whose goal is oriented with the people.

I try not to go into too much depth about who Ron Paul is, I tell them he is running for president and that he stands for smaller government and is against the war. I then ask them to please google him and spend an hour researching him because they will not get an accounting of him on any television news station. Only 2 people I have talked to out of maybe 40-50 have known who he was. One already liked him. The other is a good friend of mine who is a DIE HARD democrat, who likes ron paul over any other republican, but using his own words “it is against my religion to vote Republican”. Yet he still amuses me by e-mailing back and forth comparing his candidates to Ron Paul. I think at the very least I have gotten him to look more at Obama than Hillary but I can’t tell for sure. I still have a year to sober him up though.

I guess the main point of my comment, in continuation of the article above, is that the best thing we can be doing right now is just putting the idea into peoples heads to go find out who he is. Give them enough to make them want to learn more. But refrain from getting in any arguments over policy with people. This may put them on the defensive and it may put a sour taste in their mouth and prevent them from doing thier own honest research and giving him a fair shot in thier minds.

Of course if you are very versed in politics and can hold your own in a political debate, feel free. Just for those of us who like me, can send out an unclear message and often have to backpeadal, I try to just give a few main points and the them go figure it our for themselves (that is how I did it after all)

- Posted by: Matt
Andy on December 14th, 2007 3:31 pm

I agree. Ron Paul does not get fair media coverage! He is a man that IS seriously running to be the president. C’mon…there are only a handful of Republicans running. Surely the media can report on all of them.

Instead, we are worried about Obama’s American flag pin, or Hillary’s cleavage, or Guiliani’s wife’s handbag!! The media claims they don’t report on Paul as much because he’s polling in single digits. Well, if you put him in the polls and the headlines, and quit ignoring him…perhaps he’ll be more popular!!!!

www.teaparty07.com
www.ronpaul2008.com

- Posted by: Andy
Hmmmmm... on December 14th, 2007 3:34 pm

Great article … but could you change the title so the public does not think Ron Paul is dead/dying???

- Posted by: Hmmmmm...
David on December 14th, 2007 3:35 pm

I’ve been a Ron Paul supporter for a while now. I thouroughly enjoyed your article, and wish there were more people out their trying to ensure equality to the presidential hopefuls. The only problem that exists within the Ron Paul campaign right now is media exposure. It’s like pulling teeth to get any coverage of Ron Paul. A little blip don’t do anything, because they are likely to be ignored or missed by those that regularly use televised media as their source of information over the internet. The Ron Paul campaign needs consistent front page media exposure to ensure the jump to the top if we want to win this. Thanks for your contribution and I hope many new paul supporters find the article.

- Posted by: David
A G on December 14th, 2007 3:36 pm

It’s the same here very few know who he is but of those who do easily half support him for president.

I try to send people here ( http://www.ronpaullibrary.org/ ) if they have questions

- Posted by: A G
Dan Warner on December 14th, 2007 3:38 pm

Finding Ron Paul is like finding a huge diamond on a pig farm. You spend your life slogging around with spenind on pork. You have to clean up all of the stink and crap that the pork generates. What is even worse is that you have to feed the pork every day when you go to work…

And then you find a big fat diamond among the mud and pig crap. You are exicted! Finaly you can get rid of the pork and the stink all around you. You have a chance to end the way things have been your entire life.

You see, Ron Paul is a rare man. His record proves that. Don’t take my word for it, look it up for yourself. Pardon us for being excided about finding a rare gem among us. A quiet and honest man working for years and years, and you don’t even know his name till now…. You are almost ashamed that you didn’t know him…

Now you get motivated to help this man and your country to win the presidency. You have to endure the laughter and boos and disrespect during debates. You have to slog thru all of the halff-truths and sometimes outright lies in the media. Almost every article you read is by an author who didn’t do his homework like you did, and you have to comment, politely, and try to correct the misinformation. You try and try, and then you go to a republican event and you are told you are not welcome, that even though you paid your fees to get in, you just aren’t welcome here. Now you are mad…

If you are new to Ron Paul know this, he has been voted the ‘taxpayers best friend’ time and time again. He supports the 2nd ammendment 100%. He has NEVER voted to raise taxes, to raise his own pay, and he doesn’t even take the govt pension he is entitled to. He worked his way thru college and became a doctor. He didn’t let his kids take federal student loans. He is a vertran of five years as an air force flight surgeon. He is pro-life and pro-freedom, he is pro-America, he is pro-constitution. He has been married 50 years, to the same woman. He has given us his time for 10 terms as a congressman, one who is an expert on foreign relations and economics. Dr. Paul often votes alone, but he is also often the only vote for us.

Shame on us as Americans if we fail to see the value of this man in the presidential race

- Posted by: Dan Warner
K. Etheridge on December 14th, 2007 3:40 pm

Mr. Fiser,
I found your article as informative as it was “fair and balanced,” as fair and as balanced as a journalist can be with an impending disaster of an election coming up. Kudos to you for taking no sides while still trying to get the word out on candidates who are perhaps not receiving the coverage they deserve.

As a long-time political ignorant, I have to admit that , until I heard about Ron Paul, I had no interest whatsoever in the 2008 Presidential election. It just didn’t seem to matter anymore–and as a graduate student sequestered away in the ivory towers of academia, you seem to get used to hearing apathetic remarks regarding the state of this country and its future. I only registered to vote as part of the “buy one, get one free” driver’s license deal, a necessary step for establishing in-state residency status.
But in the town of Tallahassee, Florida, the scenery is awash with Ron Paul banners, flyers, and–regretfully–even Ron Paul grafitti in campus pedestrian tunnels. It seems that one cannot walk around campus or through downtown without seeing his name. After being constantly bombarded by “Ron Paul” wherever I went, I decided to look him up online. And for the first time in my life, I found a candidate that I truly wanted to see as my president.
For the last two months I have constantly scouring the news channels and websites for coverage on Ron Paul, and I keep finding a pitiful amount of information on him. This just does not seem to jive with the apparent layman attention he is receiving–sure, it’s fun to sit back and watch the money ticker go up on Ron Paul’s campaign website, but the fact that he has raised almost 12 MILLION dollars in such a short amount of time has to say something extraordinary for this man’s support group.

I truly hope to see more articles such as this one in the future. Thank you again.

- Posted by: K. Etheridge
smtwngrl on December 14th, 2007 3:41 pm

“Some comments intimated and others downright shouted that Ron Paul has been an impotent legislator and therefore would make an impotent President. In response, I must point out that a congressman is just 1 of 435 representatives in the House.”

You’re exactly right on that point. Ron Paul, as President, would not be just 1 of 435. I might also add that the picture of Ron Paul as an “impotent legislator” is largely fallacy. At least it is, if you listen to Congressional Quarterly, who selected him as one of the “50 Most Effective Members of Congress”.

- Posted by: smtwngrl
Brett on December 14th, 2007 3:46 pm

Another VERY important factor to keep in mind is that less than 25% of eligible voting Americans elect the President (Less then 50% even vote, approximately half of those are voting Republican) vote on election day. Furthermore, only about 5% of those Republicans vote in the primaries. That is an infinitesimally small number. SO, it’s no surprise that people wouldn’t care who any of the candidates were at this point. The vast majority of people who will vote haven’t even seen one of the debates.

People like Ron Paul need to tap into this apathy and so far Ron Paul is doing a good job of that in his campaign, but as you said there is only so much you can do with corporate owned media shunning his name.

www.ronpaul2008.com
www.teaparty07.com

- Posted by: Brett
paul smith on December 14th, 2007 3:50 pm

thanks for the article

- Posted by: paul smith
Andrea on December 14th, 2007 4:01 pm

Carl,

That article was like a breath of fresh air. I can pass this along to others making my job of explaining Dr. Paula easier.

The bottom line is that Ron Paul wants to take our country back to the basics. For some reason the media has labeled Dr. Pauls supporters as “crazy” and “homegrown terrorists” that worries me. I’m a stay at home mother of 3 and I don’t want my kids to live in a police state one day.

Our founding fathers wrote the Constitution with our individual rights in mind, and I feel that our government has deviated evolving into a military industrial complex, turning this world into their empire. Who do they think they are?

The majority of these leaders aren’t qualified to change the oil in my car, I’m not comfortable putting the lives of my children in their hands. Unfortunately people won’t realize the seriousness of the situation until it hits them in the pockets. OUR COUNTRY IS BANKRUPT! We need a change of pace. GOD FORBID WE ELECT AN HONEST TRUSTWORTHY MAN!

- Posted by: Andrea
Bill & Demitria McDuff on December 14th, 2007 4:03 pm

Although we as Americans hate the idea of a “conspiracy”; no intelligent, thinking person can escape the conclusion that the national/international military-industrial complex about which Ike warned us, has taken over our government. We have stood by like sheep and let it happen; watching our elected representatives take bribes from lobbyists and sell us out. This presidential election may be Americas last chance to return to liberty and personal freedom.

- Posted by: Bill & Demitria McDuff
Larry in SC on December 14th, 2007 4:04 pm

First, kudos on your empty bucket article… it touched me.

I am a 54 year old small business owner who has always and faithfully toed the republican line. I am one of those who knew that something was terribly wrong in our country but just couldn’t put my finger on it. Until now.

I feel that the repub party has betrayed my loyalty and especially GW Bush. I feel he and Cheney have deliberately sold us out. Never again will I go blindly to the polls to pull the repub lever.

I watched the debate in SC when Guiliani, like a puffed up buffoon, tried to bully this small man on the stage into aplogizing and when this small statured man responded with such truth that I have never heard before,,,, I practiaclly jumped off the couch.

That set me on my path of finding out who is Ron Paul. I am still researching everything I can. I cannot get enough. This is truly a statesman for our time.

I have never been active in any political race and never donated before. I gave $100 to RP on November 5th and will give a lot more on Dec 16th. I ask everyone I talk to - have you heard of Ron Paul? Old republican stalwarts like myself are turning back to freedom and liberty.

Thank you for this article and may your pen continue to spread truth.

- Posted by: Larry in SC
Heidi Shurts on December 14th, 2007 4:07 pm

Thanks for this great and true article. I am a very active supporter, and have never before been politically involved with anything. Name recognition is growing, and many members of my meetup group attend our local GOP meeting. I have gotten offers of help from almost every one of the meetings. I found out that my mayor supports Ron Paul- I gave him a yard sign. We still have an uphill climb, but with energy and persistence, all is possible. Name recognition will continue to grow, and it would certainly help if the Old Media sources reported without bias. We have some great things coming up: PBS is tonight, teaparty is Sunday and Glen Beck is Tuesday. This is just the beginning… The movement that Ron Paul has become leader of will never die.

- Posted by: Heidi Shurts
Adrian on December 14th, 2007 4:08 pm

All I have to say is that Ron Paul has the most views on Youtube with over 6 million views. The only person that come close is Barrack with about 5 million views.

On the CNN/Youtube Debate for republicans it was treated like the lowest of tiers. I was extremely surprised because I saw that the majority of questions asked to the candidates were for Ron Paul before the debate. Not to mentioned they gave him some stupid questions.

Also, outside that location there was a lot of support for Ron Paul and not a lot of reporters reported on this. This is obviously an organized effort to suppress Ron’s message and this is scary the control the media has on the average mind and what you and I are witnessing.

- Posted by: Adrian
Martina on December 14th, 2007 4:08 pm

Thank you for this well written article!!

- Posted by: Martina
Scott Simpson on December 14th, 2007 4:08 pm

Great article as was “Empty Pot.”

I’m a Ron Paul supporter here in San Francisco. Although we have several active meet-up groups in the city, I see very little visual support for Ron (i.e. no bumper stickers, banners, & signs). My observation is that most of Ron Paul’s support on the west coast -so far- is still in the “internet phase.” It’s time we take that support to the streets.

I don’t believe in the accuracy of poll numbers, but after talking with friends & family, few have heard of Ron Paul’s name. I’m guesstimating in my circle, less than 10% know him. This has to change.

- Posted by: Scott Simpson
TexMesh on December 14th, 2007 4:10 pm

I live in a suburban area outside of Houston, TX. I commute to and from downtown Houston everyday. Durring my daily commute I see about 5 cars with Ron Paul bumper stickers on them. Sometimes I’ll see cars with shoepolish writting saying “Google Ron Paul”, or “Ron Paul for President.” I also see signs on overpasses hanging over major freeways saying “Google Ron Paul”, “Ron Paul for President”, and my favorite “God Bless Ron Paul.” I see Ron Paul signs on the side of rual roads outside my suburban area. I don’t see any excitement surrounding any other canidate. I might see 1 car a month with a Thompson sticker on it, but that is about it. There is a buzz around Ron Paul that is growing and is becoming ever more visible to the general public.

However, when I talked to friends and family about Dr. Paul, many didn’t know about him. Some had political apathy. They didn’t want to think about or talk about any politics. Others had seen or heard his name and had the impression that he was a fringe canidate with no chance of winning. When I talk to people about the issues this nation is facing; I try to let them know when they have a viewpoint that Dr. Paul shares. Through disscussion of issues, I have found that the people around me are begining to understand Dr. Pauls message. Some of those people have become ardent Ron Paul supporters. though, I still wonder about the rest of the nation.

By the way, great article!

- Posted by: TexMesh
Brandon on December 14th, 2007 4:11 pm

I started noticing RON PAUL R3VOLution signs here in the Salt Lake Area in the spring of 2007. I didn’t know what it meant or who he was. I’d never been involved in politics and was, in retrospect, apathetic. I never voted for a Republican President. I only read my news from newspapers and watched it on the nightly news. Then, I awoke and everything changed. My brother and I discussed these ‘Revolution’ signs and this ‘Ron Paul’ guy and I researched him and the message and I (we) haven’t looked back since. So now in addition to my wife, son and daughters, my brother is also a proud and dedicated Paul supporter - and now my mom, grandmother, two or three partners in the office, and a few friends. And I do agree that name recognition is a part of the issue. And the mainstream media is a part of that problem, and intentionally so at that. Did you know his name isn’t included in many of those polls? And did you know he won a blind-bio poll that Zogby issued a press release Nov. 20, 2007? But we don’t hear about those in the MSM. My grandma and I were talking just yesterday and she doesn’t have internet and only watches TV for information. She was in tears at the way some of these pundits talk about Ron Paul. And her and her brother, who she explained never squabble long and agree on most things, well he hung up on her over their disagreements over Ron Paul. He told her, and I’ve heard this so often, that he has about as good a chance as Donald Duck to be our president. I told her that’s not true and the straw poll wins, debate wins, donations and the rumble we see and feel is proof to the contrary. I told her, like Gandhi said and I’ve heard it so often with this campaign, “First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.” Some still laugh, some are fighting. My grandmother and I, my brother and many of my friends will be donating to Ron Paul this Sunday…I hope it’s the day that the tea hitting the water (and a HUGE grassroots donation day) sparks off our peaceful Revolution that has rekindled the flame of Liberty. And the brushfires are burning in the minds of the men and women across this great land…

- Posted by: Brandon
Michael on December 14th, 2007 4:13 pm

It was from your first article that I became aware of Ron Paul. I am neither for or against him at this point, I have more to read. The fact that the media is so biased against this good man is somewhat telling of our “popular” media that we read and watch on TV everyday. His impeccable record as a doctor and the 20+ years as a US Congressman alone should surely earn this honest man his due. I have recently made a small donation to his campaign website and will probably give a little more on their Dec 15th “tea party” donation push, just to protest the fact of his marginalization by the media. It is an insult to the American public.

- Posted by: Michael
Travis on December 14th, 2007 4:14 pm

As someone who has always supported men like Rush Limbaugh, wrongly viewing them as the only alternative to “liberal” politicians, I am so glad to have my eyes opened to a much better alternative–freedom from politicians altogether. I encourage all “Republicans” and “conservatives” out there to write to Rush Limbaugh, Shawn Hannity, and their ilk, and let them know that they no longer represent true conservative values, and that we will not listen to them any longer. Down with the neo-cons, who are just as guilty as anyone at robbing Americans of true liberty and justice!

- Posted by: Travis
Victor on December 14th, 2007 4:15 pm

Nice article. Most people I talk with have never heard of Ron Paul. When I talk to those same people about who he is and what he stands for on all sorts of issues, they really get interested. My father-in-law has never been interested in politics and certainly never donated to any candidate, but he is now actively involved with sharing who Ron Paul is to those he knows as well as contributing financially.

I believe Ron Paul is misunderstood by many GOP hardcore regulars because they seem him voicing some similar views to what the Democrats voice on Iraq and so lump him in with that group. Does anyone truly believe the Democrats would be up in arms about this war if Bill Clinton were President? Hardly. What Ron Paul stands up and advocates takes real guts and I admire him very much and wish more people were like him.

So I think Ron Paul’s support is a slow growth machine because his positions cannot be understood in a few soundbites. I just hope there is enough time before the primaries for his message to be spread and understood.

- Posted by: Victor
Eric Westfall on December 14th, 2007 4:17 pm

Ron Paul is like the truth - you have to want to hear it, and you have to be ready for it. What makes me both sad and glad is, as it becomes more and more obvious that America is going to h@ll in a handbasket, more and more people are ready for Ron Paul’s powerful message.

- Posted by: Eric Westfall
cathy sarkisian on December 14th, 2007 4:18 pm

I watched as Fox News explained Ron Paul’s victory in the Republican debates as the result of internet geeks redialing. I was nearly rendered speechless by this. Is the media owned by the front runners? Is there no truth or intelligence in the reporters covering a MAJOR debate on a MAINSTREAM channel? In fact, isn’t his underdog victory the type of story that would boost ratings in comparison to the same old coverage of the same old schtick we get from the pre-ordained front runners? Finally, why would Fox news impinge its own integrity by 1.) lying and 2.) declaring that its own phone-in system is flawed? What about Ron Paul are they trying to discredit or hide at such a price??
Too bad Diogenes and Ron Paul were not contemporaries. Diogenes could have retired his lantern.

Cathy Sarkisian
San Anselmo
California

- Posted by: cathy sarkisian
Adam Jolly on December 14th, 2007 4:19 pm

Mr. Fiser. Wonderful article. At one time I thought that maybe I was going crazy because with the way that the media has portrayed Dr. Paul it was turning me into an anti big media conspiracy theorist. Now, after your article, my faith in humanity and my sanity has been restored. Everything you said in the article is what I have been screaming for months. Every person that I know except one(who is voting for Thompson because her parents know him personally) that is going to vote, is voting for Ron Paul. Many of my friends have sent him money and have now registered to vote for the first time. He is the first candidate that I remember(I’m only 29 yrs old) who is actually “for the people,” not special interest groups and big oil. Ron Paul and you, Mr. Fiser, have restored my faith in the humanity. Keep up the good work.

- Posted by: Adam Jolly
Guy W. Fredel on December 14th, 2007 4:19 pm

I have been a Democrat all my life. I am now supporting Ron Paul. He speaks the truth even as others ridicule him for what he is saying. I have been startled to learn how many financial analysts support Ron Paul. They believe he is speaking the truth about our economy. The more I read comments by intelligent people, the more reason I see to support Ron Paul.

The people that I talk to are either supporting Ron Paul or seriously considering supporting him.

It is funny to remember how fund raising used to be the standard by which all candidates for president were screened by the national media. Now that Ron Paul is fund raising like crazy, the national media suddenly no longer mentions fund raising as a standard.

The national media frequently relies on its critical role in preserving first amendment freedoms. The truth is the national media is subservient to the views of its owners. The owners support globalization. The national media is rapidly becoming irrelevant and is not worthy of being viewed as a credible source of information.

Fred Thompson is sagging in the polls. John McCain and Huckabee are hurting in terms of fund raising. The truth is that Ron Paul is in great position to win the nomination of the Republican party. None of the Republican candidates have dominated the process to date. Several will drop by wayside in the weeks to come. Ron Paul will still be there. I believe that his support and his fundraiing is growing and will continue to grow.

I say let the people decide. I say that it is time for people to become informed. We have no excuse. We need to get informed now. Then let’s see who is left standing in the war of ideas.

- Posted by: Guy W. Fredel
Republicae on December 14th, 2007 4:22 pm

For decades both the entrenchment Republicans and Democrats have embedded themselves into the flesh of this nation like parasitic ticks, sucking the life blood from this nation and its people. Each party has taken their respective turns at the ruination of this country, its wealth, its manufacturing, its domestic and foreign policies.

The status quo candidates in both parties are doing the only thing they can do: woo the people with the same type of empty promises that their neither intend to keep or can realistically keep. They offer no real solutions to the problems faced by this country, many of those problems have been caused by the very type politics that they are on the stage promoting now.

So, if Ron Paul is not elected, if drastic changes are not made we will continue to face the same issues, the same problems and even worse ones as the monetary system this government and their buddies at the Fed continues its march toward economic disaster.

Just listen to Bernanke, get this, will ya: “The U.S. government has a technology, called a printing press (or, today, its electronic equivalent), that allows it to produce as many U.S. dollars as it wishes at essentially no cost. By increasing the number of U.S. dollars in circulation, or even by credibly threatening to do so, the U.S. government can also reduce the value of a dollar in terms of goods and services, which is equivalent to raising the prices in dollars of those goods and services. We conclude that, under a paper-money system, a determined government can always generate higher spending and hence positive inflation.”

Now this entire system is built upon debt and the circulation of every single dollar, whether digital or physical, is not created until it is borrowed into existence, imagine that for a minute. Since it is not backed by anything but the creation of debt that means that the debt can never be paid off or reduced since it would be a contraction of the economy. The problem with the entire fiat monetary system is that it will reach a point of mathematical termination due to the weight of the ever-increasing and irreversible multiplication of the debt that creates it, soon, and very soon, the debt will begin to require more servicing than the economy can produce and still remain viable.

Think about it, everything we now know that makes up our economy and indeed, our society, is built upon a system that has an inherent terminal point. All your investments, your retirement, pensions, 401k, savings and all the government programs, everything is completely dependent upon a system that, as all fiat systems in history has proven, will collapse.

RON PAUL IS THE ONLY CANDIDATE THAT UNDERSTANDS WHAT THIS COUNTRY IS ACTUALLY FACING AND HAS A PLAN TO AVERT A TIME THAT NO ONE IN THIS COUNTRY WANTS TO FACE. The other candidates can spew out their empty and unfulfillable promoses all they want, but if Ron Paul is not elected in 2008 by 2012 we will all wish he had been!!!!

- Posted by: Republicae
Lisa in Vancouver WA on December 14th, 2007 4:22 pm

Thanks Carl. Like a lot of people writing in, I was apathetic and cynical. No more. I went through my own honeymoon phase with Dr. Paul and got involved with my local meetup but have come to realize that Dr. Paul has no chance of winning. NOT because he isn’t the best candidate for the country. The powers that be will not allow it to happen. I’m not sophisticated enough to know what ruse will be used, what trap will be set, or even if God forbid, violence might be perpetrated against him, but they have too much to lose to allow the American people to elect this man to office. I am now extremely disheartened and sad but there is a ray of hope. Young people are excited about our country’s future and they have too much to lose to live in the world that is being crafted by their seniors. I believe that another candidate will rise up, a person whom nobody knows now, but a person who is being educated by watching the debacle before us, and who will lead the country in the future. After the coming Clinton or Giuliani administration, and maybe one more cycle of the same, people will truly be ready for a revolution. Like many thinking people, Dr. Paul and his supporters are simply very early to the party. It WILL happen, perhaps not in my lifetime, since I’m not young, but I hold to this fragment of hope. To all RP fans out there, don’t allow yourself to become too discouraged as this process unfolds; we will see grave injustice. Keep the passion for liberty and freedom alive. It will happen!

- Posted by: Lisa in Vancouver WA
Judy Mc on December 14th, 2007 4:23 pm

Thank you . . Thank you . . Thank you . . If only other journalists would have the courage to step forward and make the break to put the brakes on the media for such biased reporting, everyone would have the opportunity to recognize Dr. Ron Paul’s name as a major cadidate. I would have never known of him myself had I not made a concerted effort on the internet to learn of this Great man. It’s now on my mind 24/7. Again, thank you for your courage in acknowledging what is happening to our election processes.

- Posted by: Judy Mc
Corey Cain on December 14th, 2007 4:26 pm

It is astonishing the way this is all playing out. Ultimately it is a commentary on what our society has become…unable to comprehend common sense( or anything that wasn’t force fed in a 30 second TV clip). I have been politically apathetic for many years because I honestly believed there was no hope for our Government. I questioned monetary policy in 6th grade and was first ignored. So I researched it. As a 6th grader I could understand how are money policy would eventually destroy this country. My social studies teacher said I was just being disruptive. I questioned why is it our government can demand sanctions and bombing countries for thinking about nukes when in fact we are the only country to drop not 1 but 2 on civilian targets. Once again I was being disruptive… America is the greatest I was told. Well that seems like the answer someone would give when they don’t know the answer ! Now here we sit with people talking about universal health care. How is this even talked about when we are 8 trillion in debt. I am only a few thousand in debt and I can’t even buy food for my child. Whether you agree with Dr Paul’s positions on social programs or not the fact remains that he is the only one running with the guts to make the changes necessary to even start thinking about things of that nature. He has introduced legislation to protect social security for those who need it while the rest rape and pillage it much like the settlers did to the Native Americans (although we dont really get taught that in school either) Have I mentioned foreign policy. How is it that Americans don’t understand why we are hated. We are the bullies on the playground. If you do it our way will protect you and give you stuff if you don’t you’ll get bombed or starve. When China and Russia start doing that to us maybe we will understand. Or better still maybe America will wake up this year and elect our only hope against endless war and poverty. The brainwashing stops and the REVOLUTION begins. TAKE AMERICA BACK VOTE RON PAUL 2008 or live and die with the consequenses I just hope I am remembered as one of the “good Americans”
WAR ON TERRORISM = LOST
WAR ON DRUGS = LOST
WAR ON POVERTY = LOST
WAR=LOSS

- Posted by: Corey Cain
Michael on December 14th, 2007 4:27 pm

It’s no doubt that the name recognition for Paul is still weak, but that does not make him a weak candidate. In fact, out of about 20 people I have asked only 3 have heard of him before. But I am helping change that as are others.

Recently I asked my parents if they had heard of Ron Paul. They had no idea who he was. They were both familiar with Hilary, Rudy, Obama, but not because they are interesting in politics. However, the opposite is quite true. My mom said told me “As soon as I hear anything political I switch the channel”. It’s not surprising with voter turnout reaching all time lows that the average American is demoralized.

After watching some of the debate clips they were very impressed with Ron’s common sense responses to the questions. They will be voting in their first primary ever. Are the polls skewed? Sure. There are many variable which are not taken into account when it comes to those polls, one of which is the fact that they are calling people who are normal voters.

That’s all the feedback I have for now. Thank you for the article and the way you approached. I truly hope this trend continues.

- Posted by: Michael
Kelly bain on December 14th, 2007 4:27 pm

Thank you! As a caucus voter here in Iowa [Madison county] I can tell you something is happening.A few of my friends and I have a pledge list of close to 40 people just here in our corner of the county for RON PAUL.In 2000 our county had 176 voters in the caucus.Thats 25%!. This is the 1st election in history that the MSM.What I call the old media is losing control.Ron Paul is winning!! And the more hes heard the more he will win because his messsage is an American message not some world message.Peace .Love ,freedom and Liberty. Thanks again.

- Posted by: Kelly bain
david on December 14th, 2007 4:28 pm

This is so very fascinating to witness! After reviewing any MSM exposure there appears to be some sort of conspiracy, but I hate feeding such conjecture. Still there it is, overwhelming enthusiasm for this candidate everywhere I look, and it seems a deliberate blackout.
Perhaps this physician speaks to a turbulent sentiment imbedded deep within the collective American psyche. A potentially explosive element, when ignited could radically change the direction of this nation/world. If the groups in charge of our current system of belief programing were to be aware of this potentiality it would account for the unwillingness to chance this type of rogue message. Then: THE INTERNET, what a wild card this is, I believe we are about to see some history in the making. Information at everyones fingertips via the speed of light, it almost congeals individuals to a single
to this
I speak personally when I say that for the last several decades I have felt complete apathy towards the political system in this country. Primarily because of a feeling of powerlessness caused by a

- Posted by: david
Raven West on December 14th, 2007 4:30 pm

I for one am very pleased that Ron Paul is “off the radar” so far and not considered a serious threat to the “top tier” candidates. Neither was Huckabee until the last debate and once the media started to notice and crown him the “candidtate of the month”, the attacks began which only put him on the defensive and his support decreased. It is a sad situation for our country when an honest Presidential candidate who continually votes his conscious, does not accept federal money, and values constitutional law is considered to be a long-shot and a quack and those who support him are considered nuts cases. If you want answers, I suggest you head to any college campus and talk to the re-engergized youth who are holding Ron Paul for Pres signs, attend one of the hundreds of meet-up groups, or any rally where Ron Paul is speaking, if you can get through the thousands in attendence and ask any one of them why they are supporting a man who “cannot win”.
And in November of 2008, when Ron Paul is elected President, we will ALL say we told you so! Power to the People.!

- Posted by: Raven West
Nathan Reed on December 14th, 2007 4:31 pm

As a Canadian and global citizen, the only hope I see, not only for the USA but for the entire World, is that Ron Paul become the next president.

I have tried to donate money to the Ron Paul campaign but unfortunately I have to be an American to do so. If this election was open to the entire planet, I am sure Dr. Paul would win by a landslide. It seems that the majority of people around the world know more about Ron Paul than the Americans. We can blame that on the corporate controlled MSM demons. (CFR, Bildergergs etc…)

Vote well my American neighbors, the world depends on it.

- Posted by: Nathan Reed
tammy on December 14th, 2007 4:31 pm

thanks for this article! it’s great. i never thought about how having a negative title may actual draw more people in. very smart!

- Posted by: tammy
Fabian Rivera on December 14th, 2007 4:32 pm

Great article from the heart. Ron Paul has shown the most integrity based on his record, has received the most support from the military, his campaign is at the top in terms of donations, he has won the most straw polls, and has won all of the debates, yet he is STILL not considered a top tier candidate by the media. The bias is extremely obvious, but we still persevere and we will win this thing.

- Posted by: Fabian Rivera
Jim on December 14th, 2007 4:35 pm

Loved this article & your previous one.
I agree that still the majority of people tune Ron Paul out because we are so used being disappointed in our available political choices. The last election - choosing between Kerry & Bush was just horrible. It’s hard to take the time to read up on the same old “big government should spend more on this and that” positions & we’ll pay for it with “more efficiency” crap. You read through the positions of about 4 guys in a party and give up in disgust before you even get to Ron Paul.
I found him one day when I heard one of his supporters on a completely non-political message board. I thought to myself “Who is this annoying guy & why does he care about stupid politics?”. So I decided to do a bit of research so I could cut him down properly & was shocked to find someone who I actually agreed with about 90% of his positions. Even what I disagreed with I figured he’d still be better than the solutions proposed by all the other guys. I was hooked - but I think it’s really hard to get people to overcome their initial disgust of politics and actually give anyone a chance.
People here still look at me like I’m a nutcase when I mention Ron Paul, but I pray that some of them will come around like I did. I live in Texas just a few miles away from RP’s congressional district & people still think he’s just some crazy person because they don’t really know anything about him except that some of his followers are a bit odd.

- Posted by: Jim
Bob on December 14th, 2007 4:42 pm

Keep in mind that most politicians get money by going to the usual fat cats, who give $2300 to multiple candidates so as to buy access to government regardless of who wins. Those fat cats aren’t going to bother giving to Paul’s campaign, because even if he wins they’re not going to get anything but constitutional government.

A good measure of the real grassroots support for candidates is the success of their various “money bombs”. The November 5th money bomb for Paul wasn’t even organized by the campaign, it was started by a few bloggers independent of the campaign. It brought in $4.3 million in one day, from 38,000 donors, with an average donation of a little over $100. After Paul’s money bomb other candidates decided to try one. Obama’s campaign had an official money bomb. Did you see it in the news? No? Well, that’s because it was too embarrassing. 72 donors contributed a total of less than $5000. Huckabee’s campaign tried a money bomb. It was more successful — it brought in, if I recall correctly, about $230,000 in a day. But taking the wind out of Huckabee’s sails was the fact that Paul raised more money on that day, even though it wasn’t supposed to be a money bomb day for Paul.

This Sunday (December 16) is the tea party, a long planned money bomb for Ron Paul. I expect he will exceed the take on November 5.

- Posted by: Bob
Curtis on December 14th, 2007 4:45 pm

One of the most amazing things about Ron Paul’s grassroots support is the fact it isn’t only in the United States. It’s actually spreading around the world! There are meetup groups dedicated to Ron Paul in many countries throughout Europe, Canada, South Korea, Japan, Australia, and even one in Iraq of all places. The Strasbourg Tea Party in Europe is going to happen in unison with our Tea Party fundraiser here in the states (Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07TVBLFroSM).

One cannot understand the depth of Ron Paul’s support without watching many of the most popular videos dedicated to him (my personal favorite: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FG2PUZoukfA). They will be protesting the European Parliament and their lack of representation. Ron Paul’s freedom message is universal, it makes people think, it makes people want change, it makes people want to stand on street corners waving signs, it inspires us to create wonderful videos on youtube.com, and it doesn’t matter where you live.

Many people have said the same phrase, “Dr. Paul CURED my apathy.” He brings together people from all parties, all ends of the political spectrum. People are putting aside their differences on issues so they can address the most serious problems our country faces. Anti-abortion voters are teaming up with pro-abortion. Apathetic Democrats and Independents are teaming up with conservative Republicans. Ron Paul often likes to joke at rallies that even a few anarchists show up. So any poll that doesn’t take these people into account cannot capture the full spectrum of Ron’s support. We are, by and large, voters who haven’t participated in previous elections. We don’t normally vote in primaries. And the simple reason is nobody has ever given us a reason to do so.

We are locked into a perpetual two-party system that excludes the outsider, the man with new, bold, and perhaps shocking ideas. It excludes the people who do not bow to corporate interests or to the powers-that-be in the party ruling structure. That’s why Newt Gingrich campaigned against Ron Paul and for his opponent in a recent Congressional election. Many people will say to themselves, “HEY! If the Republican leaders want him out, I want him to stay in!” He cannot be bought, sold, and paid for like other politicians. He stands on principles that are rock solid and cannot be influenced by lobbyists. Indeed, lobbyists know this, and don’t even knock on his door because they already know it’s pointless.

With so much corruption in politics today, Ron Paul is a breath of fresh air to those of us who can’t stand the endless pandering, lying for votes, and selling out to who can donate the most money to a particular campaign. No amount of campaign finance reform can make dishonest politicians suddenly become honest. And that is a major component to Ron’s appeal across the political spectrum.

We want our freedom back.

We want to preserve our prosperity for the next generation.

We want balanced budgets and sound money again.

We want to end our empire around the world so we can take care of our own.

- Posted by: Curtis
william charleston on December 14th, 2007 4:48 pm

THIS IS WAR! people in this country expect all of the freedoms…they expect everything to be handed to them…it’s a general forum of unapologetic, apathetic, dumbed down laziness mixed w/ overpriced gasoline, booze, and penis pumps.

if you saw the last debate in iowa it’s obvious what was going on…RON PAUL is under the other candidates’ skin…they gang raped him by not attacking his ideas but conforming to them…trying to play the ‘honest, man for the people/constitution’ and in turn dumbing down the most amazing contrast between their stance and paul’s…HONESTY

IT WAS THE MOST REVOLTING thing i’ve seen so far in the primary run…a testament to how corrupt and unimaginative these elections/candidates really are…you may call it perception (facts can come from just a general count of quotes if you need objectivity), therefore making is a subjective story…but the media doesn’t pick up on it…the front page the next day should have read…CANDIDATES CONFORM TO HYPOCRISY

i’m at the point where my potential for apathy is even stronger after jumping into the ron paul revolution…to see him fail and watch one of these pinheads control this country for another 4 years of tyranny…it’s painful to even think about…because i know where this country/world is headed…

FINANCIAL SLAVERY

- Posted by: william charleston
Andrew on December 14th, 2007 4:49 pm

Thanks so much for this wonderful article. I agree with many, that Ron Paul isn’t a politician, but in fact a statesman who’s platforms cannot be delivered in quick soundbites. It takes a bit of time and reading on an individual’s part to understand *truly* where Ron Paul is coming from. I’d say about half of my friends know who he is, and half of that group doesn’t fully understand his positions.
The misunderstandings range from, “How can you support a guy who wants NO regulation on ANYTHING?” To, “He wants to ban all abortion? No way!” Both points, are clearly wrong. Ron Paul’s desire to minimize the influence and effect of government - apart from it’s constitutional duties - and increase individual responsibility gets turned into some terrible plan that never existed in the first place, usually by far left leaning folk. And returning the abortion question to the states, is not at all the same thing as “banning abortion.” For the record, I am staunchly pro-choice, and I support Ron Paul.

Back to the poll numbers again though… I think Ron’s campaign could greatly benefit if all of us grass-rooters took those numbers at face value. What if they are real? (They aren’t) But shouldn’t we not assume that he’s doing great? We need to spread the word continually, anywhere and everywhere.

One last point: If you a are “one-worlder,” then your views are diamtetrically opposed to Ron Paul’s. National sovereignty is a major platform of his, and one that his supporters hugely agree with. The idea isn’t to shrink the U.S. Gov’t so that it can be more easily controlled by outside forces (a breathtakingly horrific thought), but to shrink the size and scope of government to increase liberty at home. Our national sovereignty is a seperate issue, and Paul’s stance on this is *crystal clear*. No UN, NAFTA, WTO, CAFTA, etc. This simply cannot be debated. Ron Paul does not support a “one world government,” because such a thing, terrible as it would be, would be a concentration of power so great, that all “well intentioned” folk who thought the idea good, would find themselves in a world of grey twilight, their liberties and freedom crushed under the boot of an omnipotent world government. Shame on you.

- Posted by: Andrew
WC on December 14th, 2007 4:51 pm

LOOK AT YOUR COMMENTS JUST IN THE FIRST 2 HOURS THIS STORY HAS BEEN OUT!

TELL ME HE ISN’T A FRONTRUNNER

- Posted by: WC
Mark McLain on December 14th, 2007 4:55 pm

Thanks for taking the time to write this article. The subject of politics is such a detailed matter that it will take more than one article or more than one blog reply to cover in detail. However, I do say that you did an excellent job in at least bringing Dr. Ron Paul to light.

Before ending my post, I would ask you these questions:

Your family and friends. How do they obtain their news? What source or sources do they use? What do you think about the coverage time given to each candidate running? Do you think there is bias? What is each and every supporter of our candidate choice doing to “spread the word”?

Each tool in this campaign is a link to bigger and better things. Have you ever heard of people power? You are power? You have the ability to promote and encourage!

Poor is the individual that allows corporate owned media to take away the ability to choose…….

Happy New Year and keep up the great work!

- Posted by: Mark McLain
rich on December 14th, 2007 4:58 pm

Thank you for that fresh breath of real journalism. I am a Canadian who just got back from a 40 hour drive over three days to Iowa and back to hear and cheer for Ron Paul in person. Damn that ice-storm or I would have continued on. If anyone wants to get a real good idea of what the American people are up against try finding a radio-station that isn’t dominated by Bill O’Reilly, Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity or Glenn Beck and other lesser knowns. The never ending abuse of dogmatic propaganda is disgusting. So thank you for a more normal piece of writing, I still have faith that if enough Americans are exposed to what their true options are, then despite the established powers that be, the rule of law and the constitution will perseveer. Otherwise there will be a North American civil war of some kind down the road.

- Posted by: rich
Bill on December 14th, 2007 4:59 pm

Thank you Carl for your article and invitation. I would like to shed some light from
Oklahoma. I am a 70 year old senior citizen who has waited 50 years for a candidate like Dr. Ron Paul. I have seen and felt the growth of BIG government for 50 years and have hoped and prayed for someone to come along who would change the trend of big government back to what the founding fathers had intended … a LIMITED government that serves the people. I have known of Ron Paul since the 70’s. Here is a man with a message that has never changed since the 70’s. Here is a man that you can totally TRUST, who is totally HONEST, and who is not running for HIMSELF but is running for the PEOPLE.

I joined our Meetup Group out here when there were 18 people, now there are well over 300 approaching 400. We just had a huge rally at our State Capitol in Oklahoma City and I estimate that a third at the rally, like me, were senior citizens. Out here we know that Dr. Paul is not just some ‘internet thing’, it is a ‘PEOPLE thing’ whose critical mass is almost here. I can’t wait until Sunday, December 16th for the Teaparty. We will show the country the ‘critical mass’ of money by THE PEOPLE for this man who represents US!

Thank you for the invitation.

- Posted by: Bill
Curtis on December 14th, 2007 4:59 pm

Ron Paul isn’t running for President!

WE THE PEOPLE, are running for President through him. He is the vehicle, we are the drivers. He is the instrument, we are the musicians. He is the campaign, but we are the grassroots that fund his campaign. He doesn’t want to be President to run our lives. He wants to empower all of us with the freedom our founding fathers intended for us. He is the most humble politician on capitol hill, and his humility inspires us to go to great effort to see him given the honor he deserves. Great power should not be won in a political campaign, it should be thrust upon that person who is most deserving of that power and will use it the least, just like the young boy who became an Emperor bearing an empty pot.

- Posted by: Curtis
Scott Miner on December 14th, 2007 5:04 pm

You’re beautiful Carl, great article, don’t anyone hold their breath waiting for the AP to pick it up and distribute it nationwide though.

Thanks Carl Fiser and keep up the good journalism.

- Posted by: Scott Miner
steve on December 14th, 2007 5:08 pm

thank you for your article, somthing is horribly wrong with this country when someone with ron pauls sterling voting record and sound,in my opinion unimpeachable integrity doesnt get more attention than his lets say less principaled opponents.I WATCH IN TOTAL DISBELIEF when political news like chris matthews puts up poll results and just omit ron paul on the screenshots. i used to be a loyal hardball viewer untill i witnessed his just unbeliveble blackout of ron paul WAKE UP AMERICA WE ARE BEING DUPED if they are going to such lengths to black him out he has to be on to somthing. I for one now watch so called MSM news with a lot more scuspision than 6 months ago

- Posted by: steve
Linda Inveninato on December 14th, 2007 5:10 pm

Thank you, Mr. Fiser, for writing an article to answer the people’s question: “Why haven’t we heard of him?” I encounter that question daily in my canvasing. I will print your article to carry with me.

Indeed it would seem that our national TV media doesn’t wish to promote any of the “Peace” candidates, Paul, Kucinich, or Gravel. This leaves me terribly disturbed as my family favors the end the troop involvement in the Middle East….now.

Last week, with the news of Iran’s lack of a nuclear program and the shameful behavior of President Bush, my family had hoped that the DesMoines Republican Debates would be alive with a new call for Peace.

Instead we American peacemakers were insulted by “no war or immigration issues will be covered.” Wolf Blitzer added injury when he pointed to a graph indicating 21 undecided Republican voters backstage showed non-support of Dr. Paul’s bringing home the troops in the first year in office. It simply couldn’t be believed!

An even greater insult was to Mr. Kucinich, and Mr. Gravel…left out completely…while Alan Keyes(???) was allowed?

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