I'm an small business owner who owns a website store and I want Huckabee to know that his policy on the so called "fair tax" would ruin the internet. The internet is the last place for free markets and free speech. As soon as the fair tax puts a sales tax at the federal level all hope will be lost. That is why I support Ron Paul.

Sent by Jared | 10:20 AM ET | 12-18-2007

I am 27. I grew up in the rural Appalachia, now living in the northeast as a full time student working on my doctorate in chemistry, registered Democrat and love Dr. Paul???s message.

Sent by Matthew | 10:30 AM ET | 12-18-2007

I don't think I fit the profile. 47 year old, male, married, two children and a computer programmer. Never involved in politics until someone introduced me to Rep. Ron Paul's message.

Sent by zmeister | 10:52 AM ET | 12-18-2007

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=17345258

"a vote not to reauthorize the Head Start program for kids"

Together on 3: 1, 2, 3 BOO!

"a vote to impeach President Bill Clinton"

Cmon. Jeeze. He's a cult figure why? He was one of those kooks, people. How could Mr Right-to-Privacy have voted to impeach a guy who fought for the privacy of his sexual history?

On the issue of impeachment btw, Paul is for impeachment of Bush for moral reasons. But he claims that any Democrat who wants to impeach Bush wants to do it merely for political reasons. What the f...

A cult figure why now?

Sent by Brian | 10:57 AM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 23 year old Draftsman from the midwest. I am a fiscal conservative, and social liberal... in other words, your prototypical libertarian. I believe the government should stay out of my bedroom, out of my media, and keep their hands off my paycheck. I've never bothered voting before, because I couldn't stand to give my moral approval to any of the politicians I've encountered thus far. I will be voting in the primary, and then (if Paul wins the nomination) in the general. I wouldn't vote for anyone else.

Sent by Melissa | 11:02 AM ET | 12-18-2007

I supported Ron Paul during his first campaign and am proud to have made the maximum legal donation to him this time around. I'm male, HS teacher, 54, married 33 years, with 4 grown children. My spouse (an RN) and kids are also Paul supporters.

Sent by Steve Dasbach | 11:31 AM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 40 year old software engineer with a wife and two kids and normal suburban lifestyle. We are Catholics.

I have long had a libertarian philosophy in politics and in life. My Christian morality demands that the poor be helped as a result of an individual using his free will to make the virtuous choice to help. All forms of government welfare destroy choice and virtue and are a source of evil in our society. We have to start the weaning process so that virtuous individual giving can take the place of government "charity".

My morality also demands peace, except in the case of clear self-defense.

Because of these and many other reasons, Dr. Ron Paul has my complete support.

Sent by LibertyMar | 11:57 AM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 33 year old teacher.

The reason I'd vote for Ron Paul is that he's right about one key issue: the government can not afford, and nor should it try to afford, to be doing all that it attempts to do.

Cutting government spending means CUTTING government programs. I've not heard of another politician willing to admit this simple fact.

Sent by Bill | 11:58 AM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 29-year-old Marine Corps veteran and currently a student finishing my Master's Degree in urban planning and will also be voting for Ron Paul.

In my eyes, he is not a Libertarian, but rather a Republican in the truest sense of the word!

Sent by Dan | 12:13 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am:
a native North Carolinian
a recent transplant to New York City
a photographer
a Christian
age 24
a former Republican
a former Independent
a former Democrat
an NPR listener
a NY Times reader

After moving to New York I decided to register Republican so I can support Ron Paul in the primary.
While I am not crazy about all of his opinions, I do think he is the best candidate, not to mention the most down-to-earth, honest, real candidate.

Sent by Isaac | 12:46 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 39 year old Network Tech, married have a house and a dog. Ron Paul is the first candidate I've ever donated to. I've never voted in a primary but you can rest assured I'll be voting this time.

Oh, and NPR should research the history of attack pieces the Houston Chronicle publishes against Dr. Paul before they go to them. The Chronicle is shameless when it comes to smearing the good Doctors name.

Sent by Frank | 1:03 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm forty, married with children. I come to Paul from the States Rights camp. I live in a liberal State and no longer feel that an over reaching central government is the most efficient or responsive for the differences across the many States.

Sent by Cascadian | 1:11 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 34 year old software manager from San Jose, CA. I've always voted libertarian in the elections, even though I realistically knew the candidates couldn't win. Ron Paul, however, actually has a chance to win. Not strictly libertarian, but a big step in the right direction. I've never voted in a primary, but switched parties from libertarian to republican to do so for Ron Paul. Also, I have never donated to a candidate before, but yesterday gave a small donation to his cause. I want to do everything I can to help this man win the presidency.

Sent by Brett | 1:17 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Why is that NPR is still spewing out smears against Paul? A couple of months back, they broadcasted a negative narration of his past based on feedback from his Democrat opponents. They still continue to misrepresent his views and past records. Do some research on his view on earmarks before spitting out more garbage.

Sent by shm224 | 1:18 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 46 yr old small business owner who will be voting for Dr. Paul in the primary and also the general election. If he doesn't win the primary and does not run as a third party I will write him in in the general election. Reason - (1)best man to reunite the country (Rep, Dem & Ind.) (2)because he believes that our leaders should uphold their oath and follow the Constitution.

Sent by David | 1:24 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am 36 years old in North-Central Florida. I am a registered life-long Democrat who grew up with parents in the trade unions. I like Ron Paul for many reasons, but mostly because of his stances that buck traditional republican/democrat roles. This is a real man voting logically. Go Ron!

Sent by Bill | 1:28 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Warning! Listen to this feature defensively. It is clearly biased against Ron Paul. For the truth behind NPR visit :http://www.fair.org/index.php?page=13

Sent by Voter | 1:29 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 37 year old business owner in Florida. My family is very Republican. I just got sick of both parties selling their influence to the highest bidder. Vote Ron Paul!

Sent by robert | 1:30 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 35 year old transplant from NC living In Atlanta. I work in the education field for a Fortune 13 company, have been an Independant and will register Republican to vote for Ron Paul.

Sent by Mike | 1:51 PM ET | 12-18-2007

People are getting sick-and-tired of the same old song-and-dance from their politicians. That's why Ron Paul is moving up in fundraising, polls, and every other measure of popularity. Unlike everyone else running, Republican and Democrat, He's the real deal. His authenticity and honest surpasses all the others. See this YouTube video from the new, international award-winning feature film, "Song of the Dead." It features horror movie icon, Reggie Bannister, as president of the U.S. -- and it's a hilarious satire on the president, the MSM, and the war on terror. The filmmaker, Chip Gubera, is giving a share of the profits from the film to the Ron Paul campaign.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=qQmkkoxSKYw

Sent by mketcher | 1:54 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm from Texas, from Tom Delay's district, have a Ron Paul sign in my yard, and donate regularly with my big business coworkers and friends.

Sent by John-Ross Cromer | 1:55 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 25 year old hispanic male working to pay the bills in San Marcos, Texas. I believe that as long as our gov't brings to the American people all the facts on any issue, that the people are smart enough to decide the right course of action. Ron Paul is the only one running (on either side) willing to go after all the facts and then present them to us.

Sent by Gabe Ochoa | 1:55 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a truck driver in El Paso, Tx. I voted for Ron paul in 1988 and will do so again. There is a crisis of economic ignorance in this country, but Dr. Paul is the only candidate that seems to recognize this. He has studied the Austrian greats like Hayek and Von Mises, but his views are not incompatible with the more modern Chicago school of thought best expressed by Nobel winner Milton Friedman. Simply put, prosperity requires freedom. Dr. Paul knows this and so do those of us who support him.

Sent by Joe Allen | 2:02 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 34 year old computer programmer living in Utah. My wife and I have four children. Although I work with computers my college career was largely humanities, literature, and languages. I'm applying to Law School for this next year.

I am an avid listener of NPR on my commute to and from work. I also appreciate the podcasts. I read the NYT, WaPo, and other mainstream papers regularly. I am an active Mormon and think Mitt Romney seems like a nice family guy but he is (as basically all the other candidates are) dead wrong on foreign policy.

I support Ron Paul because he stands against the abuses and excesses of Empire exactly as our Founding Fathers did. He speaks genuinely and resolutely of freedom, equality, respect, and liberty for *all* people. I believe his vision and action to be the most effective against the new American slavery of Chinese sweatshops, abused Immigrant populations, and the oh-so-politely-termed 'collateral damage' [innocent civilians murdered] of our endless military adventurism abroad.

That is why I am voting Ron Paul. Hope and Liberty!

Sent by Doug Bayless | 2:04 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 57 Year old housewife in Michigan who wishes to thank Dr.Paul's district in Texas for sending Dr.Paul back to Congress. I just learned about Dr. Paul in May and thrilled that I will get to vote for him.

Sent by Sandra | 2:11 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I joined the Army in the early months of 2001; my patriotism led me to the recruiter???s office. I had grown up in awe of my grandfathers and their stories of World War II, and their reminiscing became my dreams. When I got to basic training I did not talk about missing home like the other recruits around me, I felt at home in ways I never had before.

The weeks after 9/11 found me in Kosovo, part of C co 3/7 Infantry, 3rd Infantry Division, patrolling the border with Macedonia as part of our duties. We had ammunition to defend ourselves with and the authority to apprehend anyone crossing the border illegally. I will get back to why these details are important later.

Fast forward to 2003, I am rolling across the desert in the back of a Bradley fighting vehicle, part of the spearhead into Iraq. Other than those first three weeks of ???Shock and Awe??? what I remember most about Iraq was the people. Crowds of kids wanting to know about Michael Jackson and Britney Spears, open-minded adults wanted to know about our social freedoms, and ninety some percent of Iraqis just wanted to raise their families in peace and did not hesitate to tell us. I really fell in love with the Iraqi people. My platoon and I played soccer with some of those crowds of kids, we had dinner and shared food with families in their homes, we even went to a few house parties, and my lieutenant and I spent one very memorable afternoon swimming in an irrigation ditch with five young women. It is all of them I think of when anyone tells me we need to turn the Middle East into a sheet of glass or that all Muslims are our enemies.

I remember thinking on this briefly when I was there, but more so since I???ve returned, usually when I???m day dreaming behind the wheel of my van, but what we were doing when we were doing our jobs, patrolling the streets, conducting road blocks vehicle searches, bodily searching individuals, and searching houses, couldn???t be helping our long range plans for winning hearts and minds. I really have to wonder, how long would it take me to move from a position of thanks for my despotic government being removed to feeling like I lived in a conquered and occupied country if I saw foreign troops on the streets of my hometown Tallahassee everyday? Add to this our having bases and troops in Turkey, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Egypt, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and Saudi Arabia, ( I may have missed a few, we have approximately 700 bases in 130 countries ) some of them for decades, our Navy of their coast, our fighter jets in their sky???s , the CIA in business with monarchs, dictators and thugs, and our State Department treating their leaders like irresponsible children, it???s no wonder moderate Muslims takes to the streets shouting ??? Death to America??? and a minority takes action against us. I would expect we would be doing the same thing if say, China had bases on our soil, and her Navy patrolled our coastline and Chinese fighter jets streaked across our sky. In short, this is all hard to admit, but our actions do have consequences.

Fast forward again to the present day, I am out of active duty, and in the Army Reserves. (I wanted to stay active duty, but my wife said I would be single, so we had a compromise.)To be honest the reserves has bored me to tears and I haven???t felt like I???m giving anything back to my country, so I looked into getting attached to a National Guard unit on our border with Mexico for a tour or two. However, when I learned they don???t have the authority to apprehend illegal border crossers and can only call up our overworked and overstretched border patrol when they spot illegal activity, I got myself in trouble again by thinking - about what I had done in Kosovo and about what I knew our military had done to our own people in the aftermath of hurricane Katrina ( disarmed law abiding civilians only trying to protect themselves when the police had failed to do so) . To add insult to injury, our Guardsmen and women on our own border don???t have ammunition and have on several documented occasions actually had to retreat when facing fire from Mexican paramilitary groups. Now why would I want to sign up for that? To be witness to the violation of America???s sovereignty? No one in the Executive branch of our government is doing anything about it, and it makes me wonder why I am even in the Army at all.

Why are we the worlds policeman when our own country is being openly violated? Why are we borrowing money hand over fist from nations not exactly our friends, just to spend it on our out of control foreign policy? I am starting to feel like the powers that be do not have America???s interests in mind at all. It???s starting to feel like our ruin is their objective. From our factories closing and moving overseas, to the plunging value of our dollar, America is crumbling. Yet I love her far to much to watch her fall apart.
This is why I am taking my personal revolution and joining forces with Dr. Ron Paul???s revolution. His ???bring all the troops home??? non-intervention foreign policy and plans to put America first again are just what we need at this time in our history. I don???t expect you to agree with everything he says, but I do hope we can all put our differences aside and join him in seeing that ALL the troops come home, the Republic is restored and America saved. Thank you and God Bless.
Zakery Carter

Sent by Zak Carter | 2:15 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Ron Paul 2008: Hope for America

I am a 28-year-old female college graduate. I was discouraged about this election until I found out about Ron Paul, because all of the other candidates (on both sides) are distasteful and repugnant to me. Ron Paul embodies the spirit of America, both as she was founded and as she needs to be now. If you believe in the message of liberty and justice for all, then vote for Ron Paul!

P.S. I am a real person. Yes, I get my news from the Internet, not a printed newspaper. By using the Internet I am able to read a variety of perspectives from different mainstream newspapers, individual voices as well as alternative news sources. A wide range of sources enhances knowledge and understanding, rather than depending on one source.

Sent by Maxine | 2:16 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 38 year old married man with three children all from the same woman (who is studying to be a nurse). I gross $100k a year, yet I'm still struggling to make ends meet. Something's not right, and Ron Paul knows what it is...That's why he's getting our support, money and vote.

The last man to run FOR THE PEOPLE is now on the $20 bill.

Ron Paul will be our next President.

Sent by tre dizzle | 2:18 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 31 year old law student and former computer programmer. I've liked Ron Paul since I got interested in politics in my mid 20s.

The internet makes it a lot easier to keep track of which candidates are switching their stories from week to week (hi rudy! hi hillary! hi mitt! we see you!). Ron Paul is honest and well informed and I trust him to make good decisions for the country.

I only trust the other candidates to do and say what they think will help their political careers. That has meant selling our rights up river in the name of patriotism and national security and buying votes with our tax money. Ron Paul signals an end to that calculus.

Sent by Jim W | 2:22 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 55 yr old small business owner. Mother of two, grandmother of two. Agree 100% with RP on foreign policy and blowback, and domestic solutions, as well. Maxed out donor. Husband, 56 YO attorney is maxed out donor. Daughter (28) and her husband (33) are fervent supporters, as well.

Sent by Liz Viering | 2:22 PM ET | 12-18-2007

45 year old single mother (5 boys, 3 of whom are old enough to vote -- all 3 RP supporters -- cuz I said so! :P) IT Director, lifelong Conservative Christian Republican. RP supporter since 9-07! Go Ron Paul!

Sent by Louise | 2:23 PM ET | 12-18-2007

"I gross $100k a year, yet I'm still struggling to make ends meet. Something's not right..."

Get rid of the SUV and the McMansion and you'll be halfway towards fixing the problem.

Sent by Stewart | 2:23 PM ET | 12-18-2007

This NPR interview is REDICULOUSLY biased and wrong on most points (by the way, Britain DIDN'T fight a civil war to abolish slavery). It is interviews like this that show how brainwashed even the media have become. I'm disappointed in this interview and the person from the Chronicle that gave it. It makes me glad that I am voting for Dr. Paul

Sent by Stephen Bratton | 2:23 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm an actor in NYC. I re-registered Republican (was previously non-affiliated) for the primaries and Paul.

We have the rare opportunity to support a true statesman in every sense of the word. Anyone who doesn't needs to examine their principles.

Sent by Oscar DeGrouch | 2:30 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 30 y.o. Bio-med student with an M.S. in Exercise Science. I was researching Buddhism and became a Buddhist and a Christian on the day that I realized that Jesus was a Buddha. My non-interventionism spread to economics when I started reading Rothbard, von Mises, Hayek, and Hoppe. I discovered that there is no difference between economic and moral freedom, and that the only moral form of government is pure federalism, which was destroyed in this country by Lincoln when he invaded the seceeding Conferderate States of America. I am a philosopher, economist, and a Republican.

Sent by rhys | 2:30 PM ET | 12-18-2007

My wife and I are both 29 years old living in Utah and are first time voters who hold both paties in discontent. Ron Paul is a man of principles and will tell you what he stands for. We both registered Republican to vote for him in the primaries. We are fed up with the main stream media pushing bias garbage. This movement is more than just Ron Paul, but liberty and freedom itself.

Sent by Joe Banks | 2:31 PM ET | 12-18-2007

74 years old. Retired and watching inflation flare up. gas now three times start of Bush term and graduating upwards. Food prices going up. War has been a ridiculous fraud on the American People and we need to cut our spending in this wastful endeavor. Ron Paul does earmarks but only after he votes against the underlying bill. He has answered this critiques many times so it would be worth while to go to google and key in Ron Paul. There are speeches, weekly letters and all types of historical voting etc. You can get a great picture of what Dr. Paul is all about and if you are like us come away a big fan

Sent by Tom | 2:31 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a Berkeley, CA local, a lesbian, a pro-gun home defense specialist, and interested in personal liberty on all counts. That's why I'm supporting Ron Paul. Whether he agrees with my personal lifestyle or not, I KNOW he will defend my individual right to freedom.

Sent by Tacy Traverso | 2:36 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a married 31 year old Texan who voted (sadly) for Bush twice. The first time precisely because he was saying things in the Foreign Policy arena that Dr. Paul is saying. The 2nd time because, i like many, we're convinced I was hated because I was free. I've since changed my view on that notion. I have an active duty brother whom i do not want sent back to war. My father was a career officer in the Army and he has recently decided that he is for Ron Paul as well. I own an independent record label and am an entreprenuer and musician.

Sent by Lee Brooks | 2:37 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 28 year old male, married Network Administrator awaiting the birth of my first child. I see Ron Paul as the hope to start a change to make my country a better place for that child. I want a country that doesn't force it's views with one hand while preaching freedom with the other.

Sent by Michael | 2:39 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am 62 and a former teacher. I am for Ron Paul because he wants to get rid of
the Dept of Ed and make the Federal govt be responsible for only what was stated in the Constitution. I am for no Death Tax and No Capital gains tax. My husband and I have worked and saved for our own retirement. We have taken investment risks on our own and should be able to spend the little we have as we wish or give it away as we wish.The politicians are quick to give raises to themselves and to those getting entitlements-what about encouraging those who save for themselves. They forget we vote!

Sent by nancy adams | 2:42 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a bit disappointed in the amount of spin coming from usually unbiased NPR, but I'll add my profile to your little list so can acuse of all of being fringe elements of society.

Male, 35, married, no children, homeowner, post graduate degree, engineer, New Orleans, LA.

Until recently I was registered independent, although I normally voted Republican. I'm now registered Republican and have given $200 to Ron Paul's campaign. He is the last chance to take back our government from career politicians beholden to special interests.

Sent by James Orleans | 2:45 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 30-year-old married father of five, working as a systems integrator for a defense contractor. I've been a Reagan conservative my whole life, but since I was able to vote 1996, I've been had to hold my nose to vote Republican (Bush, Dole) and voted Constitution in 2000 and 2004. I'm glad to be able to support a candidate and still be able to look at myself in the mirror

Sent by Tom Albrecht | 2:46 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Independent computer consultant, married, daughter, had best $ year in 2006. Found out that federal deductions phase out after $200K. I paid $52K federal income tax for 2006!

I paid everything off, have cash in bank for about 4-5 years, so I'M NOT WORKING ANYMORE TO PAY UNREASONABLE INCOME TAX TO FUND SENDING AMERICANS TO DIE IN IRAQ.

I am sending $ to Dr. Ron Paul, paid for a plate at a private lunch, and am spreading the message every day to real people in person (outside the internet).

Sent by john | 2:47 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Ron Paul 2008
I support the Constitution. The way it was intened to be. Not passed over and used only when it benifitted the Right or the left. It is time to go back to it. Real money, getting the fedral government out of our lives, stopping agressive non declared wars and traditional values. Government is supposd to protect our freedom not to be our rulers. Vote this election for our forefaters views. Vote Ron Paul 2008

Sent by Ron Aldof | 2:48 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I've been a Christian most of my life.
I'm 28.
I'm married.
I live in Seattle.
I'll be a father in March, 2008.
I write screenplays for business training.
I've been a republican for ten years.
I voted Libertarian in the general election 4 years ago, 2 years ago, and 1 year ago. Ron Paul's vision for this country marks my return to the Republican party.

Sent by Nathan Key | 2:50 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a truth seeker who believes in freedom, equal rights, and justice. I like having the facts, and I strongly support Ron Paul because he is the only Presidential candidate who "tells it as it truly is."
I have voted for two decades now, but this is the first time I have ever felt so strongly about a candidate that I tell my friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, etc. about Ron Paul's great ideas. I am 46 years old.

Sent by Paul Ashcroft | 2:50 PM ET | 12-18-2007

40 years old
not married
Female
single mom
Masters in Special Education
Disaffected? YES
Dislikes MSM? YES
Wants to leave son with a better America? YES
Loves Ron Paul's message? YES
Donates to Ron Paul? YES

Sent by VAT | 2:50 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Im a 32 year old male from NYC. I'm a libertarian registered republican who believes in 2nd ammendment rights and fiscal responsibility yet is liberal on social issues and feels that our foreign policy is destroying our civil liberties and economy. I believe in states rights. I'm tired of compasionate conservatism and nanny state liberalsm.

Sent by SteveNYC | 2:51 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 31 year old mechanical engineer.
I am voting for Ron Paul because he is an honest, good, and consistent man. Furthermore he understands that it is morally wrong to tell someone "you are not entitled to %100 of the fruits of your labor because I don't trust that you would help the needy so I'm taking what we need at gunpoint"

BTW, Ron Paul votes for the earmarks in commitee but then votes against the bill as a whole. Please hire a fact checker.

Sent by William_B | 2:54 PM ET | 12-18-2007

The Houston Chronicle is openly hostile to Ron Paul and you choose one of its employees to interview about Ron Paul? You could have at least tried to find someone who was a little more objective.

I am a 44 year old married mother of 3 who is supporting Ron Paul even though I don't agree with him about everything for the simply reason that he is ONLY candidate who actually believes in something and sticks to it no matter what.

Ron Paul is the anti-flipflop.

Sent by Elizabeth | 2:56 PM ET | 12-18-2007

23 Years Old
married
male
college educated
tired of ridiculous government spending? YES
terrified of America going the way of Rome? YES
looking for a truly honest, un-bribable politician? YES

Sent by James | 2:58 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm no internet junkie - but I love Ron Paul! It boggles my mind that he's considered a fringe candidate!

Sent by Abe S | 3:00 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 46 year old female from NC, registered Republican as of today (previously Unaffiliated). I changed my affiliation just to vote for Dr. Paul in the primary. I get most of my news from my local paper, CNN and the internet. I am a small business owner, and an accountant. I have never voted in a presidential election because there was never a candidate that I could, in good faith, vote for. Dr. Paul has changed that. This is the man who can protect our rights and bring this country back to the Constitution. This is the man who will bring honesty back to our government. I am voting for Ron Paul because he truly is the only hope for America.

Sent by Betsy Smith | 3:08 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Hi! I already commented here simply to answer the 'Who are Ron Paul's supporters' question as part of my daily 'Hey let's browse npr at lunch for interesting stories' project but I hadn't heard the larger audio podcast til just now.

Honestly, every article I've read in the Houston Chronicle this year (I've probably read 8-10) about Ron Paul has been a remarkably biased "hit piece" against him (I say 'remarkably' because - despite being a professed Paulite - I really don't expect consistent bias like that from any 'mainstream' outlet other than perhaps FOX news - and even FOX news has some diversity in their news staff). I don't know if any or all of those were from Bennett Roth but it seems a little anti-NPR-ish to not interview either Paul himself or get a sampling of his local supporters actually on air.

I suppose reasonable people will notice the blatant mockery with which he treated Ron Paul's supposed comments on the Civil War, for instance. I mean I've never heard that Paul said that it would've been far better to simply purchase all the slaves' freedom, but what could be a better dream! Instant undoing of the reprehensible slavery in the country. No suppression of vital civil liberties from Lincoln's administration. Probably far less expensive in monetary terms than all the hardware of death, forced marches, and prison camp maintenance than what we did do. None of the brutal warfare and killings of that profoundly deadly conflict. And certainly less residual resentment, racism, and turmoil. My heavens! Who could possibly disrespect that? And why?

This guest really seemed to be trying to paint Paul as nothing more than a racist, fake, inexplicable phenomena mostly supported by the misinformed fringes of society. And yet even as he grasped at straws to do so he brought up more genuine reasons for the general public to admire the guy. [He also had to admit that his other aspersions were decades old and generally agreed upon as baseless to begin with.]

For me I want the kind of leader suggested by the guest's example of Paul's comments on the Civil War. I want somebody to be able to look at the impending, senseless violence of our current conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, - wherever - and say 'Hey wait a second here, what are the real objectives? and what are the solutions that don't involve murder, overtaxing the people for Imperial dominion, and suppression of hard-gained civil liberties?'

Sent by Doug Bayless | 3:09 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am:
Married
a Cape Codder (MA)
an IT Consultant
an Atheist
31 years old
a former Independent
an NPR listener

The only thing that connect RP supports are a love of freedom, an understanding of the Constitution, and an Internet connection.

BTW, I'm disappointment with NPR on their political coverage...you guys are starting to sound like the MSM.

Sent by Ian | 3:11 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Who am I? 43 year old, college graduate, married for 22 years, business development manager. I'm a current member of the Libertarian Party. Wife is a GOPer and my 20 year old son is a Libertarian too.
I support Dr. Paul due to his staunch advocacy of the US Constitution. Because he has unwavering philosophical underpinnings to his political thought, he is the opposite of a 'freewheeling firebrand' as you depict.
He voted against the Head Start initiative because the Constitution makes NO reference anywhere to funding education at a Federal level. He voted to impeach Clinton, not because of his sexual indescretions - or to violate his privacy - but because he was guilty of perjury. He lied under oath. He will always vote against anything that destroys 2nd Amendment rights (mandatory trigger lock). I haven't heard of him abusing earmarks, but instead see of him always on the list of 'Taxpayers Best Friend'.

Sent by John S. | 3:26 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am A 24yr old, male, college student from Virginia

Sent by Hunter Kerns | 3:27 PM ET | 12-18-2007

female
30 yr old
married
completed grad school
NPR member
Freelance industrial designer
liberal
from urban north east
Ron Paul supporter

Sent by Emily | 3:29 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm:
27 yr. old female
Married
1 child (age 1 1/2)
Educator
South Dakota
Christian
Registered Republican

I've only been aware of Dr. Ron Paul for a couple of months. I've never fully researched political candidates before (I have now!) and Ron Paul follows the beliefs of our founding fathers. We the people are loosing our freedoms very quickly, and it's time to get them back

Sent by Sara | 3:36 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 33 year old engineer. I am married with one child. I have lived in North Carolina my entire life. I have always considered myself to be fiscally conservative and socially liberal.

I had heard of Ron Paul, but knew little of him until the first debate when he gave his now infamous 'blowback' response. I went to his website, read where he stood on the issues, and have been a Paulite ever since.

I agree with him on most of his positions, but disagree on a few. However, I feel he is a man of principle. In this day and age, that is a rare thing to say about a politician.

These are firsts for me (and I think thousands of others)

I donated to his campaign.
I told my family and friends about him. (My mom is also a big Ron Paul supporter now.)
I attended a political rally.

"Dr. Paul cured my apathy."

Sent by Paul R | 3:38 PM ET | 12-18-2007

In my view, any American who doesn't support Ron Paul deserves to chafe under intrusive federal government and its legions of overpaid bureacrats. It is time to take America back from the undeserving and tyrannical politicans who have been in control for the last century.

Sent by Tom Mathers | 3:39 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm:
a conservative republican who votes
an Army veteran
29 year's old
married
living and working in Manhattan
a Ron Paul supporter

Sent by Ken A | 3:52 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 22 year old Business/Law student and I am a Ron Paul supporter. He's the only candidate who has made a bold attempt to remedy our current economic position and restore credit and faith in the American Dollar. I believe that in the globalized world, America has to hold onto its economic prowess and develop it, not squander it. Ron Paul understands this and that's why he has my support.

Sent by Ryan | 3:55 PM ET | 12-18-2007

-female hispanic PhD student
-42 years old
-previously registered as democrat or independent
-NOW: I have registered as a republican so i can vote for Ron Paul in the California primary on Feb 5.

REJECT Stepford politicians with big business in their pockets!

Let's go back to taking care of ourselves and our communities, instead of letting the government into our homes and our bank accounts.

End Iraq war now!

google news brought me here today, but i gave up on NPR about two years ago: too much like MSM...

Sent by asha | 4:01 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Male, married with 3 kids. 35 years old, work as a computer security admin at a major bank. Voted democratic, then Perot and Nader in the past. NPR member of my Seattle radio station. Grew up in a small town, lived in the city for past 17 years. Conservative Christian, attend church weekly. I support Dr. Paul because of his honesty and his support of the constitution - we need big change in our country right now. I've been able to sell Dr. Paul to my democrtic leaning parents and my 86 grandpa and my conservative, missionary father in law.

Sent by Tolli | 4:04 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 45 yr old male and a digital artist at an animation studio in Dallas. I never cared about politics and have never known a politician who impressed me much...until I heard about Ron Paul, back in 2004. Dr. Paul, as they say, cured my apathy. I avoid mainstream media, or at least take it with a grain of salt, due to the unbridled bias, spin and distortion so widely present in our country's mainstream media outlets. I get my news primarily through independent sources on the internet and through documentary films, since so much of the information I feel is most relevant is largely avoided by television's talking heads. Ron Paul delivers a message that is long overdue in its delivery and he delivers it with honor and integrity, virtues which are now frighteningly scarce in Washington and corporate America. Hillary may be bought and paid for by the power elite, yet I will still cast my vote for Dr. Paul, because it is the right thing to do. If he loses, may God have mercy on our doomed nation.

Sent by Hollan Holmes | 4:05 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 39-year-old non-religious, upper-middle-class small business owner. I've respected the libertarian principles of the founders for years and feel that they are all the more applicable in our dangerous world. Concentrated power is more dangerous and corrupting than anything, and that is why it so important to support Paul - the only candidate that will work every day to restore a rational balance between federal, state, and (most importantly) individual power.
We are not isolationists - in either a national sense or a community sense. We are people who love others and want everyone to have the freedom to voluntarily interact with others on their own terms.
Free individuals make the only workable communities.

Sent by Paul from NC | 4:05 PM ET | 12-18-2007

49 y/o married,white female business administrator who makes $150000+ anually. Changed my voter registration to Republican so I can vote for Dr. Paul. Tired of the same old mediocre leadership of our country. Don't agree with all of Dr. Paul's views but at least he tells the truth, understands that you shouldn't spend more $ than you have, and values liberty and our Constitution. I would like to feel proud to be an American again.

Sent by Carrie | 4:07 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 29 year old Systems Administrator from Kentucky with a Computer Science degree from UK. I'm single and not any particular religion. I was a registered Democrat but switched to Republican so I could vote in the primaries for Ron Paul.

I'm concerned that well financed special interests will lobby for more laws eroding freedom, that we will lose our sovereignty to foreign governments like the UN, that socialization of necessary services will bankrupt the lower and middle classes, and that our fiat money system is headed toward collapse making this country weak.

I've donated $400 to Ron Paul in the hopes that he will remove the laws that are preventing people from governing themselves. I want to make the choice as to how my money is spent and who gets it. I'm tired of lying politicians scaring people into giving away their freedom for the illusion of safety. I want what everyone of us wanted when we were teenagers; to be responsible for myself and free to make my own decisions. I want to live my life the way I want to not how people who don't know me want me to.

Sent by Tom Snyder | 4:08 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 62 year old mathematican/computer engineer. I've been a libertarian for 40 years, since reading Rand, von Mises, and Rothbard. I was slightly involved in John Hospers' first Libertarian Party presidential campaign in 1972. After six years or so I got burned out and figured I wouldn't live long enough to see anything like this. When Dr. Paul ran in 1988, I heard him during a 10-minute radio interview only once, and I don't recall any radio or TV ads, though it has been a long time and I may not remember if there had been a small number of them. When I read back in March that he was running again, I just chuckled. I figured he would kick up a little more dust this time around, being a Republican, but this is just astonishing! Where the heck have all these libertarians come from? I don't believe I ever attended a libertarian political gathering that had more than 20 or so people in attendance, and most of them were fellow male computer nerds. Maybe I should get back into this.

Sent by SteveF | 4:14 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Man of God
23 Male
Kentucky

I am a Ron Paul supporter because he speaks truth.

Sent by Aaron K | 4:18 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm happy to see that the word is getting out that those of us who support Ron Paul are not a bunch of kids living in our mothers' basements! I am

Female
48 years old
Married for 27 years
Daughter in the Army
Business Owner
Live in Washington state
College educated

I've voted primarily Republican over the years, though the last two elections I voted Libertarian. My main reason for supporting RP (donated $250 already and will do so again) is because he understands monetary policy and how it's crushing the country as it is currently manipulated. He also understands the real reason we are being targeted for terrorism. I would love to see mainstream Americans look around and see that we're not a bunch of kooks or internet addicts. We are real people with very real concerns who love our country but have completely lost faith in our government. Go Ron Paul 2008!!

Sent by Lisa | 4:19 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Male
28 yr old
Single
Bachelor's Degree
Moved from Florida to DC to work for a Government Contractor in the Technology field.
Donated to a presidential campaign for the first time ever - Ron Paul's campaign.
Usually Republican, but don't necessarily vote the party line. I'm disappointed in the Republicans of late for promising smaller government but expanding it. I'm somewhat undecided about the Iraq war...I think it was good to get rid of Hussein, however the way we did it was not the right way. Economically, I agree with Congressman Paul. I think the free market has a lot of benefits, and we don't need government controlling every part of our lives.
I think Paul is very honest, and isn't your typical politician. Most politicians - on both sides of the aisle - will say ANYTHING to get and stay elected.
Frankly, I'm tired of the two party system, where people "root" for their team. No matter what happens people love their party and despise the other.
Go Ron Paul!! He is a breath of fresh air in an otherwise fairly corrupt system.

Sent by Earl | 4:24 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I"m 52 and a stay-at-home homeschooling dad. I haven't voted for president since 1980 and lost hope in voting until Ron Paul entered this race. I'm against America as world policeman and the endless taxing and spending of conventional politicians. I see the nearly $10 trillion national debt as a disaster looming. The small government rhetoric of Republicans is now so threadbare as to leave the emperor with no clothes at all. I want big changes. I trust Dr. Paul to fight the good fight if elected.

Sent by Nicolas | 4:26 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 65 year old retired public school administrator.
I have been an elementary teacher,elementary school Principal, high school Principal, District Director of Technology, and School District Director of Curriculum.
Female
Conservative
Catholic
I was a Texas resident until October of this year. I am currently living in Tulsa, OK.
I support Ron Paul. His record shows he actually says what he means and means what he says. How refreshing. I believe he is a man of conscience.

Sent by Mary Harris | 4:36 PM ET | 12-18-2007

28 College educated male in Baton Rouge, La. I am faculty at Louisiana State University. I don't believe in conspiracy theories. I'm taking part in the first real revolution since the 1960s. Even if Paul loses, he wins. Join the RPR.

Sent by foramerica | 4:40 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Wow! Look at all these young techies supporting Ron Paul from their mother's basements ;)

I am a 51 year old mother of 3 minor children, a college graduate and on my 3rd career (golf course superintendent, at home mom, Realtor) and I live in Virginia.

I was formerly fairly apathetic about politics but finding out about Ron Paul some 10 years ago was one of the things that helped cure my apathy. I could not believe that there was anyone in congress who was that principled and honest!

I consider myself a "small l" libertarian or minarchist, if I must have a label. But I prefer Freedom Fighter or Lover of Liberty and someone who reveres the constitutional principles on which this great country was founded.

Beyond that, Ron Paul is the ONLY candidate on either side of the aisle who understands and speaks to the financial crisis this country is in. You want compassion? Ron Paul understands what inflation is doing to the poor and middle class and he's trying to fix it.

All of y'all in the msm are missing the real story of Ron Paul however. It really isn't the man, it's the message of Freedom that brings people together.

You ought to be asking why, for example, the meetup group of nearly 300 members that I organize, ranges in age from 17 to 76 and the people are from every background imaginable. You ought to ask why anyone would completely cover their car with Ron Paul bumper stickers, as a young man in my group has done. You ought to ask why the electricity is nearly palpable when several Ron Paul supporters get together, even if they've never met before. You ought to ask why people would stand out on street corners in all kinds of weather holding home-made signs supporting their man.

There are human interest stories in this campaign, the likes of which will never be seen again in my lifetime.

But that's ok. Like it's been said, "the revolution will not be televised". Can't wait to see the looks of shock when we crawl across hot coals to vote for Ron Paul!

Sent by Terri Kurowski | 4:49 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I support Ron Paul because I believe in the Constitution.

Sent by rob | 4:55 PM ET | 12-18-2007

46 Male
Former Marine
CCIE network engineer
Father of 4

America is now paying for the sins of apathy and large living. Ok, we'll pay as the dollar collapses and jobs dry up and blow away to China and Mexico.

The true political paradigm is not left=socialism and right=fascism, fascism and socialism are both on the left. Government control=left Freedom=right. Ron Paul is right.

Sent by Rich in KC | 4:58 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm 36 lives in Kirkland, WA. I immigrated to this country from Taiwan when I was 12. Works as a computer programmer and make over $100,00 a year. I voted for Bush in 2000 and 3rd party protest vote in 2004. Never need politically active, never donated to a campaign, never voted in a primary.

After learning about Ron Paul, I was really impressed by his knowledge on monetary policy and his non-intervention makes total sense. There are a generation of people who know nothing but American aggression, how is this support to make us safer?

He has my vote and support. Not because he is go great (although the is probably the most honest man in congress), but his message of freedom, peace, and prosperity will endure for years to come.

Sent by Peter | 4:59 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 33 year old Software Engineer. I'm voting for Ron Paul because my values are most closely aligned with his and because he's the only candidate with a clear record of honesty. The other main reason I am voting for Dr. Paul is because he is the only candidate determined to turn this country around fiscally. The mainstream Democrats and Republicans are both out of control spenders causing us to take on enormous amounts of debt. At our current rate of spending we'll soon find our dollars worthless and it'll be tough just to keep up with interest on the national debt.

Sent by Mark | 5:00 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am
26 years old
a student finishing my teaching certification
a holder of two bachelor's degrees
a home owner
a fiance
a Catholic
a Midwesterner
a Ron Paul supporter!
a real person!

I think Ron's campaign is more honest than any of the other candidates. Ron seems to be the most independent, unapologizing, and unwavering of the current 2008 candidates.

Sent by CMT | 5:04 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm 37, male, and a first generation Irish-American. I stay home with my two preschool-aged daughters in politically purple Montgomery County, PA. My wife is a professional and lifelong Democrat.

I have many views which are not consistent with Ron Paul's platform. I'm pro-choice. As the son of immigrants, I believe the most vital elements in the public's anti-immigration stance are, as they have always been, xenophobia and racism. I don't think that a secret, supra-governmental cabal is trying to pave a job-stealing "North American superhighway" from Mexico to Canada.

And yet, I am supporting him, because I think the libertarian ideals encoded in the Constitution are the litmus test against which all new legislation and expansion of government should be measured. Dr. Paul is the only credible candidate in my voting lifetime who even claims to share that view. I am supporting him out of desperation. If I have to crowd into the tent with a few people wearing tin-foil hats, so be it.

Sent by David | 5:05 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 28yr old mortgage wholesaler with a BA in economics. I have studied monetary policy for the past five years and was drawn to Paul as he was the only member of the House Financial Committee to question the practices of the Fed. Their easy money policy of the earlier part of the decade helped to fuel to exspantion of credit in the mortgage and revolving credit markets, resulting in many delinquicies we now see today. Their subsequent raising of rates resulted in a contraction of mortgage credit that has led to many to being stranded in their current situation with no available financing for reprieve. Low overnight and discount funds rates due nothing but encourage inflation and hurt those who save. The ability to control these rates is the ability to control the money supply and inflation, which is why there needs to be more transparency within the Federal Reserve.

More importantly I was drawn to Dr. Paul's foreign policy. I voted for Bush in 2000 based on his "no nation building" platform. I was tired of Clinton's involvement in Bosnia. I did not vote in 2004 because there was no canidate I felt supported my values.

The democrats elected into office in 2006 have let the american public down. The neo-con establishment of the republican party has infiltrated our system and purposely misled the american public in order to line their pockets and keep us in a constant state of fear. Because they know, there is no better way to control a population. It's time to kick these bastards out of Washington and replace them with the good Dr. and those he see's fit to place in his cabinet.

Sent by Josh | 5:06 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a married 33 year old stay-at-home homeschooling mother of 2. Despite the fact that my husband and I have always been extremely interested and well informed in politics, we have never found a candidate worthy of our votes, and have never contributed financially to any campaign before. My husband and I support Ron Paul because we want the federal government out of our lives. We don't need anyone telling us what we must teach our children or what toxins we must inject into them. We are extremely concerned with the current economy, we do not believe the U.S. should be fighting costly unnecessary wars. We are tired of being fed nothing but lies at every turn. We are not wealthy by any means but we recognize that you cannot put a price tag on freedom and have donated the maximum allowed. We have been campaigning, recruiting, voting, canvassing, letter writing, rallying, sign holding and anything else we can manage to do to help others wake up from their apathetic MSM induced slumber. Our children's futures depend on it. Go Ron Paul!

Sent by Lane | 5:17 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 27 year old software developer from Seattle, WA, a defender in freedom, and a supporter of Ron Paul.

Sent by BAN | 5:18 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm 24 year old Political science grad who used to be Democrat until they betrayed us for war profits after the 06 election. I have registered Republican and am going to vote in Kentucky's primary even though I know that in this political system Kentucky doesn't mean anything.

Sent by Dave Brown | 5:26 PM ET | 12-18-2007

27 year old
Male
Atheist
Dr. Paul supporter from NYC.

I have been a registered Independent since I turned 18 and am now registered GOP to vote for Paul. I've been fiercely liberal in what I perceive as my social views and am equally conservative when it comes to my fiscal ones. However, I don't feel that libertarianism is for me. I am anti-war, anti-big government and very pro-personal freedom and responsibility. I do not agree with everything Paul stands for but since a vote for any other candidate is a vote for the same military-industrial corporate system (yes, that includes all the Democrats as well as Republicans) I have no choice but to vote for him if I am to vote with my conscience. I recently joined the GOP in fear of America becoming any more of a nanny-state than it has already. I have my own mind and as an adult can make my own decisions on what is good for me. I do NOT need a government bureaucracy to tell me what I can and cannot do for or to myself.
P.S. I found your article from 12/18 a bit biased as are most sources with corporate funding (or donations) when Ron Paul is mentioned.

Sent by Anthony | 5:28 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I support Ron Paul and have contributed $ 100 to his campaign. Never donated to a candidate before in my life.
Male
49 years old
Married
Structural Engineering Draftsman and Web Designer
Lifelong Student of New Thought and Metaphysics / Active in Church Small Group Ministries

My political philosophy of self-reliance meshes well with my eclectic spirituality.

People worry about the consequences of some of Paul's views if he becomes President (i.e. "anti-choice," education cuts, etc.). It's as if they thought the whole country would suddenly turn hard core Libertarian. I don't think there's any chance of the whole country suddenly assuming Libertarain views. Then again, Paine's Common Sense was read by virtually every literate colonist in the first six months of 1776 (if I am not mistaken).

Maybe the best that will come out of this movement is a resurgence of Constitutional Literacy and some curtailing of the incursions on personal and economic liberty.

I want to take this opportunity to say God Bless (or if you're an atheist, my warmest regards) ALL my fellow American citizens regardless of political or other persuasion.

Let us create a nation of mutual respect, peace, and brotherhood, with or without government's help. Amen.

Sent by pmh | 5:29 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Dr. Paul tries to get the money back that mandatory federal taxes have taken out of his district. Besides, he ends up voting no on the majority of the final bills where the earmarks reside on constitutional grounds. In any event, its not as simple as portrayed in the article.

He wants to change things at a higher level, like try to keep the money where it belongs, at the state and local level. Until that happens, he has to operate within the current law.

If he did not get some federal money back for local projects, this article would never have been written, because he would have been voted out after his first term way back in the 70s. I will leave it to you to consider the bizarre, back-to-the-future like implications of this.

Demagoguery does not suit NPR.

Sent by Tron Denver | 5:36 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 71 year old retired engineer, a Kentucky native and just recently changed my registration to Ron Paul Republican. He is (in my view) the only candidate that offers hope for America. Never before contributed to a political candidate until Ron Paul and will continue to contribute to his campaign as long as I am able.

Sent by William P Cox | 5:37 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 23 year old student and am in the Nevada Army National Guard. I served in Iraq as an infantryman from Jan 2004 to Feb 2005. I am volunteering to go back as infantry in August so I can go with my brother-in-law. The MAJORITY of the men I serve with are, and always have been, against this "war". Tons of them are for Ron Paul. I know personally over 20 soldiers who will be caucusing for Ron Paul here in Nevada, and I also personally know 30 plus soldiers from around the globe who donated to him on December the 16th.

Sent by Justin Cole Crowe | 5:48 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 34-year old, married, agnostic male from the liberal hotbed of New Jersey, a lifelong progressive Democrat from a working class family, now living in northern Virginia with my wife.

I vote regularly, do my jury duty with a smile, but am otherwise not terribly engaged with civics and politics. Prior to this election cycle, I never donated to a campaign.

I've held a career in libraries for nearly a decade, working as a systems administrator and software engineer, both in academia and in government.

I have earned bachelor's and master's degrees, and am highly interested in political philosophy. The idea of socialism appeals to me as much as that of anarchism, and which way I sway depends on how cynical of a mood I'm in, but I do believe strongly in principles of classical liberalism and in a republican (small r) system of government.

In the past four presidential elections I voted for Clinton, Clinton, Gore, and Kerry, and have consistently voted the (Democratic) party line for local, state, and national elections.

Only recently did I become aware of Ron Paul's campaign. Prior to that, I was unenthused by the Democratic candidates -- none of them appeal to me terribly much, and I will admit that my votes for Gore and Kerry were primarily cast to keep Bush out of office, not out of any love for the Dems.

After hearing of Ron Paul's unique message of individual liberty and non-interventionism, I've been eager to donate to Paul's campaign, to gather signatures to get him on the ballot, to attend Republican events (such as the state straw poll), and otherwise to spread his message to all who will listen.

Many have said that Ron Paul cured their apathy; Ron Paul cured my cynicism.

Sent by Michael | 5:55 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 40 year old female
I am a doctor(and homeopath)though not currently practicing much
I am a farmer (cows, sheep, chickens, vegetables)
I have 4 children
I homeschool my children
I am a former Independent
I do not have a TV
I live in rural NY
I am against the NAIS, RFID chips in my animals or family, vaccinating my children unnecessarily, rules against my food like not being able to buy raw milk, or, in PA not being able to buy milk labelled "hormone free". I am sick of paying the IRS a large portion of my income, then watching someone on public aid making the same bad choices over and over. I don't want to live in "one country, under surveillance" even though my life is boring and not worth watching. I am willing to accept the personal responsibility that comes with downsizing the federal government and that includes providing charity to my less fortunate neighbors, which I already practice to the extent of my ability. I am tired of big corporations running our country and am ready for someone who tells the truth. I am Catholic, but my husband considers himself a heathen and he is also a doctor and a Ron Paul supporter.

Sent by Sarah | 5:56 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a kentucky college student working as a nurse aid. I'm studying economics and paramedicine, that my intrests mimic Mr. Pauls is pure coincidence, but I believe the underlying respect and moral responsibility to do what you can for the community is something we might share.

Sent by ezra dike | 6:00 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I clicked on the interview link thinking that it was Dr. Paul who would be speaking. I don't care what Bennett had to say, no offense.
As for the "ear marks". Dr. Paul is in favor of them so that the people can see how much waste there is coming out of Washington DC. Then he votes against the bill.

Sent by mnjrupp | 6:02 PM ET | 12-18-2007

My wife and I are Republicans living in New Hampshire. We are common folk, have a baby boy, and are not internet saavy. WE are Ron Paul supporters. The question astounds me. It appears that Ron Paul supporters are simply Americans who do not control the media. When we meet with friends from all walks of life, most are Ron Paul supporters. Ron Paul has a strong internet following? Garbage. Ron Paul has a strong following - end of story - and his supporters have only one free place to gather and exchange ideas; the internet. Internet support doesn't "translate" into real world support. Internet IS real world support speaking its voice in the only available medium. Acting like it is challenging to find out who Dr. Paul's supporters are is absurd. We're all Ron Paul supporters. Just listen to the sounds below you instead of the sounds above.

Sent by James Carrigan | 6:03 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 30 year old Cabinetmaker from Portsmouth Va. I've never really been politically active before I found out about Ron Paul. After hearing his speech on the floor 5/22/07 I did some research and reread the document he draws his positions from. Since then most of my time and all of my money have gone to see this man in office. After that I'll work to unseat all the members of Congress in the Commonwealth that have seem to have forgotten the Constitution as well.

Sent by Jon Boisseau | 6:07 PM ET | 12-18-2007

23 Male Collage Student Married, baby in July.

Sent by John | 6:10 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a single male small business owner with no children. I am an agnostic. I want leadership that promotes truth, honesty and progress. I am also a former Air Force member who loves the United States and the Constitution and who does not wish to see either destroyed. I do not support the Globalist agenda.

Sent by Anthony Lilja | 6:27 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 24 year old graduate student at Columbia University, studying computer science. I only mention the school to provide a contrary example to those who believe the school is full of liberal caricatures - hell, the campus even has "Google Ron Paul" scrawled here and there in chalk.

I registered Republican just to vote for him in the primaries. I like Obama too (which I know is totally contradictory, given their positions), but in the end concluded that this nation needs more a president who will act against the 60 year old trend of government expansion, rather than someone who will use broad government power with good intentions.

As a side note, there appears to be a disproportionate amount of support from computer scientists, which is curious. I believe he is the largest Republican recipient of donations @ Google (and he gave a great talk there recently as well).

Go Ron Paul!

Sent by Yom | 6:33 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 39 year old male American, and proud to be so. I was born and raised in North Carolina, near the Virginia border. I have a BA in English from Chowan College, and am an avid student of political and literary history of the US. I started being interested in Ron Paul when I heard him speak on US monetary policy. This is a very interesting topic from which one might learn a great deal by listening to Ron Paul.

Sent by Barry S Wilson | 6:42 PM ET | 12-18-2007

33-yr old female. Web designer in Western Maine. Graduated Berkeley (and it's not all about ending the war on drugs for me ;)

We need a Ron Paul foreign policy for economic and national security reasons.

Sent by Stephanie | 6:42 PM ET | 12-18-2007

60 year-old small business owner. Sick & tired of the Clinton/Bush imperialism. I am disgusted by the Republican Party's big spending. I'm more of a Robert A. Taft and Barry Goldwater Republican. I am not a fan of any candidate except Ron Paul!!

Sent by Steve | 6:43 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I LIVE IN RURAL AMERICA,A SMALL TOWN IN COLORADO. AFTER BEING LIED TO FOR SO LONG BY OUR GOVERNMENT, THE PRESS,ET ALL, I FIND DR. PAULS VIEWS NOT ONLY REFRESHING, BUT DOWNRIGHT PATRIOTIC. A VOTE FOR ANY OTHER CANDIDATE IS A VOTE FOR THE GLOBALISTS, CFR, NAFTA, BILDERBERGS ECT....A VOTE FOR ANY OTHER THAN DR. PAUL IS ANTI-CONSTITUTION AND THEREFORE ANTI-AMERICAN.

Sent by LANCE | 6:49 PM ET | 12-18-2007

im just a 19 year old who is sick of all the hurt in the world caused by our government, that is spoused to help us....im sick of the government selling us out

Sent by josh | 6:49 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 36 year old graphic designer from Spokane, Washington. Catholic. A little bit liberal and a little bit conservative.
I've never heard a politician speak who didn't sound like they were trying to sell something. And then came Ron Paul. I think he's a great man, and I hope he gets the GOP nomination.

Sent by mistertwilight | 6:50 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Why is NPR smearing Ron Paul?

You must be kidding or naive!

Where would NPR get its funding in a Paul Administration? Where in the US Constitution is funding of public media mentioned. If Paul gets in, NPR is out. That's why they hate the good doctor!

Sent by Steve Donahue | 6:56 PM ET | 12-18-2007

To Steve Donahue -- A little bird tells us that Ron Paul is an NPR listener and fan. And I take issue with you saying we are "smearing" him. We are not. We are interested in him, which is why we continue to talk about him and ask questions about him.

Sent by Matt Martinez - NPR | 7:02 PM ET | 12-18-2007

"Where would NPR get its funding in a Paul Administration? Where in the US Constitution is funding of public media mentioned. If Paul gets in, NPR is out. That's why they hate the good doctor!"

From the bi-annual fund drives. If the people wanted NPR to exist, it would continue to exist. Since Dr. Paul would allow you to keep your paycheck, you could keep public radio around by putting your money where your mouth is.

Sent by Luke Tweedy | 7:04 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 27 year old female. I am an interior designer, registered Libertarian. I grew up in Houston, TX. I fully support Dr. Ron Paul.

Sent by Lara Wheeler | 7:05 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 20 year old college student (Go Purdue!) in the USAF.

I come from a farming background in Kentucky, however my family is middle class.

Sent by John Smith | 7:06 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a mother of three and a grandmother of three. My father was career military. My husband and son were submariners in the USN. I live in Virginia, but I've in 5 other states. I am a Daughter of the American Revolution. I voted for Reagan. I voted for the pre 9-11 Bush and voted for him again for the Justice appointments. I believe Ron Paul more accurately reflects my beliefs. I think that he will do a better job on the economy and have a better foreign policy. I believe, like him, that we need to end the entitlement programs for ILLEGAL aliens.

I'm not a kook, violent, an internet geek, 20, male, disaffected or any other adjective that the media keeps calling me. Everyday I am more angry at the arrogance of the media. But, I should be happy because it makes me fight for him all the more.

The biggest reason why I support Dr. Paul is to save the future of this country for my grandkids. I want them to live free in a self governing Nation. Their ancestors fought and died to secure Liberty and Dr. Paul can restore it.

Sent by Alice | 7:08 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 38 year old self-employed, married professional living in Seattle, WA. I have been registered as an Independent all my life, however will be voting in the upcoming election Republican so I may vote for both Ron Paul & Dino Rossi. Something has to be done about "business as usual, plasticized politics" - it seems like too much power mongering these days and 30 second sound bites. Ron Paul offers a refreshing view on politics - one that is open to people across the country actively participating in the campaign process no matter their individual views, simply we all would like back the freedoms we have lost under the current and former leadership of our nation.

Sent by Jake | 7:35 PM ET | 12-18-2007

My names is James, i'm 25 and from Sydney, Australia.

My goal is to get ONE American person to change their vote to a Ron Paul vote. This would mean I did my part.

I have also made my donation, so I can be a bigger part of the process.

Sent by pehpsi | 7:36 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 53 year old male who voted for Dr. Paul in 1988. I work as an accountant. My parents are Goldwater Republicans who believed that Democrats get us into wars and Republicans get us out of them. (This was generally true up until Nixon.) A long time ago Republicans were the fiscally responsible party. (Now neither party shows any fiscal restraint.) I, like my parents stopped voting for Republicans years ago, but Ron Paul has brought me back to the GOP.

The media and their pollsters will be very surprised when the votes are counted. Two weeks ago, I discovered there was no Precinct Committee Officer in my precinct. I called up the county Republican Chairman and volunteered and was appointed. After that I discovered a Ron Paul meet up group in my town. We are organized and committed to the ideals of small government and federalism, a gold backed currency free from the FED, and an end to the imperialistic, militaristic, foreign policy that has been in place since LBJ.

No other candidate, Republican or Democrat, has over 100,000 supporters donating money and 20,000 just signed on in December. We will be at the caucuses (I'll make sure the one at my house is packed with Paul supporters) and we will be at the primaries. The ideals of the American Revolution are once again being presented to the American people and they like what they hear.

There is no stopping the Ron Paul R3volution.

Sent by Bill in Washington state | 7:42 PM ET | 12-18-2007

39, software developer, and a Ron Paul Republican.

Sent by JimS | 7:44 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a Modeling & Simulation Apprentice at Northrop Grumman Newport News, our nation's second largest defense contractor. I am voting for Dr. Paul in the Republican Primary for reasons too numerous to list here. If I had to pick the strongest reason, it would be that Dr. Paul is the only candidate who stands up for our Constitution whether it's popular to do so or not.

Sent by Daniel J. Deibler | 7:46 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 33 year old man born and raised in Los Angeles California. I now live in Walnut a small suburb near L.A. I am an online banking tech for a small Credit Union. On the contrary, I???m not some nut job like CNN or fox news would like everyone to think who likes Ron Paul must be. I love our country but am angry with the way our government has run it to the ground. From our warmongering foreign policies, which might I add only benefit special interest(Halliburton ,Lockheed /martin ,Arbusto Oil??????ect) not the people, to our loss of sovereignty and our weak economy.
I'm also
.Christian
.former democrat (voted for Kerry in 04)
.NRA member
.Hiker
.Married for 12yrs.
.one child
.don't smoke
.sometimes I???ll peal back a few cold ones.

I Think Ron Paul is the most honest politician I've seen so far.

Honest politician...I use to think that was an oxymoron.

Sent by Joe | 7:57 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a Constitutional Loyalist. This means that I understand the Bill of Rights is not negotiable, and that supporting it is what makes one an American. Based on his voting record and positions on the issues, it's obvious to me (and almost everyone I know) that Ron Paul is the only American running in either party.

Sent by Rod Miller-Boyer | 7:58 PM ET | 12-18-2007

The beauty of Ron Paul and his campaign is that it's completely authentic. He is not being marketed to us. We are sick of being bombarded by corporate messages trying to manipulate us and sell us on a product or a candidate. George Bush was *sold* to the American people by brilliant marketing executives using images of a down-home, christian, small gov't, neighborly guy. Anyone who actually looked beneath the surface saw where he was really coming from. Luckily people learn from their mistakes though, I believe this is why Dr Paul is so appealing. Americans are hungry for honesty. They don't want a candidate who's marketed to them as "authentic" and "honest". We like that Ron Paul is human. We don't want truthiness, we want the real thing.

Sent by Emily | 8:05 PM ET | 12-18-2007

Dear Matt Martinez,

>

May I suggest taking a chance and be the first to report on this for what it really is? As I said, there are some pretty incredible human interest stories in this Ron Paul campaign. Ordinary people have done some extraordinary things. You don't have to look far to find a story.

But if you don't want to dig deeper, just look at the fund raising. The grassroots raised a record $6 million in 1 day and they're all individuals, not the special interests that ALL other campaigns. Look at the number of donors, look at the average amount of donations. Look at the fact that Ron Paul will not accept matching funds even though he meets the requirements to get them.

I could go on and on but I'll close with this: although there's NO WAY I think Ron Paul will lose, this Freedom movement isn't going away. This is just the beginning...

Take a chance on us, NPR; be the first to report on the 2nd American rEVOLution!

Sent by Terri Kurowski | 8:08 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm an ex-republican turned libertarian. I see my self as a very typical American.Works an ordinary job and keeps an eye out for my family and friends. I see the US entering Stage 7 of the seven stages of Empire and worry about the future for our children (both mine and the countries).

I like Dr.Paul's message of getting the government out of our lives. We are becoming an oligarchy and need to stop this trend.

Sent by max | 8:11 PM ET | 12-18-2007

19 year old male from Illinois (Chicago area) I was completely apathetic towards politics because every politician I looked at just danced around questions or refused to answer them. I have yet to see Ron Paul do either of those things.

Sent by Mike F. | 8:17 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 51 yr. old widow. I have no children. I spend alot of time in chat on the internet and heard the message of Ron Paul rebirthing the constitution.
That was the shot in the arm I needed.

Sent by Gigi Garroutte | 8:21 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 27 year old graduate student at Stanford University studying electrical engineering. I grew up in Spokane, Washington. I've been following politics for many years. First, I got fed up with the Republicans and cable news. Then, I got fed up with the Democrats and NPR. I was an avid NPR listener until about a year ago when I realized that it is just as biased as anything on television (yes folks, NPR is mainstream media). Now I view it with about as much credibility as Fox News. Turn off your television and radio! Wake up and vote for Ron Paul!

Sent by Andrew | 8:25 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 36 year old son of Mexican migrants. A small business owner of Los Angeles area. I questioned the Iraq war, my brother is a Marine, so of course I was surprised when no WMD's were found. I accidentally discovered him on youtube. I then became a supporter when I became educated about inflation tax and his fiscal vision.

Sent by Ralph Z | 8:30 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a Ron Paul supporter from Kentucky. I'm a railroad engineer and member of the BLE-Teamsters union. I voted for Bush twice, and that's my fault. To me, Ron Paul represents true conservative values and is the only true statesman in the race. Who are Ron Paul supporters? We are Americans with good sense that are aware of the monetary danger this country is in now. We are supporters that are 100% likely to vote in elections.

Sent by Nick Lyons | 8:47 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 24 year old college student and political science major who is quite active in my student government. I'm also served as a United States Army Infantryman in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

There are a few reasons why I think that Ron Paul is able to raise so much cash is that the common man is sick and tired of the status quo that is so common in Washington D.C.

There are those who have looked at the field, both parties, and can't find anyone who is REALLY different. It's all more of the same. And we're tired of the same. So, when we found Dr. Paul, who has actually had the same message for 30 years, we instantly said YES! this is the guy.

Although we may be scattered across the nation, the Internet shrinks the world and enables us to mobilize in a way that's truly revolutionary.

If you'll notice it's small donations and large numbers of first time voters that made the Tea Party possible. No big money. No special interests. Just the average joe. THAT is Ron Paul's base.

Sent by Christopher | 8:47 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a student, married, father with 1 little girl and another on the way..I support Ron Paul, so my children can live in the USA where they have civil liberties and personal freedom. Ron Paul will keep us away from a new world order, and he will protect our rights as citizens. He is the only politician I actually trust, he isn't out to become president, he is out to save all the citizens of the United States, his message has shown that America still has hope, and every parent should really think about the future and realize we are losing our freedom. Military personnel should not be on our neighborhood streets. Please just question everything and research, don't just believe something because it is on the news. Study...Study ... Study...Knowledge is power, and all forms of media can be manipulated, if you haven't researched all of the candidates, don't vote.

Sent by Travis Cude | 8:47 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am an 18 year old male from Oklahoma who recently worked for the Giuliani campaign. After really researching the issues, I realized that Giuliani would only serve to grow our wasteful government. I now support Ron Paul.

Sent by Kyle | 8:49 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a 39 y/o Software Developer and USAF veteran in Kentucky. I enjoy listening to NPR every day, however I have been disappointed at the minimal coverage and negative slant towards Ron Paul on this excellent program. I'm a Libertarian Centrist that leans both left and right on various issues yet I feel that this left/right view is oversimplified.

I am proud to be a supporter of Ron Paul because he's the only candidate that would return us to the Gold Standard (just compare Pre-1964 dollars to what we have now.).

He is also against the war and wants our brothers and sisters back on the homefront as do I. It's obvious that all adminstrations since WWII have been keeping us in constant war and this war (war against "Terrorism") is the most deceivable one to date. I find it odd that many people don't want to recognize that Prescott Bush (W's grandpa) was indicted be he headed a US bank that lended $3 million to the Hitler war machine. People shy away from the fact that Bush, Cheney, Kissinger and the CIA have close ties to the Bin Ladens. I could go on, but I don't have the time and you may not have the patience.

The Council on Foreign Relations (which almost all presidential candidates are members and/or have close ties to) has been exposed by Bill Moyers ("The Secret Government") 20 years ago and also by Edward Griffin (CFR: The Capitalist Conspiracy) 40 years ago. This is the main reason I don't trust any of the candidates that are "politics as usual" and are CFR members. I would support Kucinich and Gravel, however Ron Paul seems to be fighting for what the founding fathers gave us and warned us of the perversions of power that has been going on for a long time in this country.

Sent by Randall | 9:06 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 34 y.o. systems engineer. I am married and I have a 6 yo kid. I have been legally living in US for over 9 years but never bothered to become citizen, but due to my admiration of Dr Paul I have started the citizenship process which will cost me over $1000. If my application is processed by November next year I will vote for Dr. Paul unequivocally. I have donated around $300 so far and will donate more to keep Dr. Paul and his ideas alive in this race. I have never donated/voted before.

Sent by google_zeitgeist_the_movie | 9:13 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm 30, have a degree in Economics, and, like others, seek a better future for the country. I fear the trajectory of US policy abroad, the effects of instability of our currency, and the deterioration of our individual rights. If you are like me, I urge you to listen to Dr. Paul and decide if you want something different for our country too.

Sent by Michael | 9:18 PM ET | 12-18-2007

i'M A TRUE GRIT TEXAN AND I THINK RON PAUL IS THE ONLY PERSON OUT THERE TELLING THE TRUTH ABOUT THE WAY THINGS ARE, REALLY.
i WOULD HOPE OTHERS FELT THE SAME WAY.

Sent by A. WYATT MANN | 9:24 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I'm a former Bush Cheney supporter "twice" UGGGH!

I AM..........

49 years old
Owner of a National Marketing Company
Divorced
2 Kids
A Protestant (former Deacon)
A Conservative Republican

I love the way Congressman Dr. Ron Paul "Speaks Truth To Power"

He has my support even though I may not agree with all he says....there is enough I agree with for me to support him with my time and my treasure!

Sent by Carl | 9:39 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 56-year old grandmother from DeKalb, Illinois...I have been disgusted to vote for most of my adult life, but just hearing a short YouTube video on Ron Paul was enough to get me VERY interested....I've been studying ever since (these past two months)....My husband paid to have a sign made up and it's hanging in our store window, we keep brochures to pass out on our store counter, I collected signatures for petition to allow Ron Paul in the Primary election, and we tried to put a hand-made sign on our front-yard tree but were told it was illegal in DeKalb (!?!----also against the law in DeKalb is to put a FOR SALE sign on a vehicle parked on a side street, or have more than four garage sales per year.....These and a million other frustrations on what normal people want to do in America is what was sucking the life out of me.....Now I have so much hope, knowing there are many, many others out there who DO want their liberty -----I think it's the media and the ignoring by our "representatives" (HA!)that make us believe we are alone in our views....I don't feel alone anymore!!!-Sara DiNicola-

Sent by Sara DiNicola | 9:41 PM ET | 12-18-2007

My name is Adrienne and I am a 22 year old who works full time and goes to college for web development. I am married to my high school sweetheart; we've been married for almost 3 years and have been together as a couple for almost 7.5 years.

I am a book worm who does not have cable TV. I get my news from the Internet and radio (I do listen to NPR even though I don't tow the liberal line.)

My husband and I come from large families (12 siblings between us) that were racked by divorces (multiple divorces) and bankruptcies. I learned early to be self-reliant and came to understand the dangers of living beyond one's means and the error of believing in entitlements.

Ron Paul fights the disconnect in logic that plagues not only Washington, but also our current culture.

I felt alone and powerless until I realized that the world is full of people who believe the same things as I do- but are silent since they feel they are powerless. The Ron Paul revolution is about bringing hope to people who felt previously weak and marginalized. It's about the creativity of the free market and the power of we the people. It's an end to apathy and the start of a new era in the political process. I won't be going back to sleep anytime soon since now I've realized how strong my voice actually is.

Sent by Adrienne Pass | 9:59 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am 48. My family and I live in the mountains of Samaria in Israel. Until the 2005 "Disengagement" (the governmental destruction of our towns), we lived in beautiful Gush Qatif along the Mediterranean coast. I'm a database consultant.

I haven't voted in American elections since 1980 and haven't been the least bit interested in them since then. Having been on Ron Paul's mailing list in the early 1980's, I began watching his campaign online. To my surprise, I found myself becoming a vocal supporter of Paul's among the American expatriate community here.

For me, there are two reasons to support Ron Paul:

(a) His economic policy will make for a strong, self-reliant, prosperous America.

(b) His foreign policy will put an immediate stop to America's meddling in the Middle East.

As you can imagine, America's foreign policy is a subject near and dear to my heart. I know first-hand the results of a misguided, heavy-handed American foreign policy. In 2005, due to American pressure, the Israeli government destroyed every Jewish town in the beautiful coastal area of Gush Qatif and exiled its residents. The ruins of our once thriving towns were turned over to the Palestinian Authority, which has since been driven out and replaced by Hamas in a coup d'etat.

I want this never to happen again.

I believe that an America led by Ron Paul would allow us here in Israel to sort out our problems with our neighbors without foreign interference, with God's help.

Sent by Uri De Young | 10:15 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am an entrepreneur, 36 yrs old, and a life long Republican. I can't stand what the Republicans have become. I like my Politics, God Free, and my God, Politics free. After Terri Schivo I decided never to vote for a bible banging Republican again. I never gave a dollar to a campaign before. I gave 350$ to Ron Paul.

Sent by Tim | 10:20 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am 33, male, and a contractor in Austin, TX. Dr. Paul is the first politician I felt was deserving of my support. He speaks the truth, not the truth as he sees it.

Sent by Nathan | 10:23 PM ET | 12-18-2007

A little younger? A little bit more male??? Why do these people want to put us in a box? Can they not see from the sea of faces that we are from all races, all creeds, all walks of life. These people go and get a degree and still have no common sense.

Sent by Kat | 10:26 PM ET | 12-18-2007

31 year old systems engineer from San Jose California.

Sent by Mick Russom | 10:29 PM ET | 12-18-2007

I am a 35 year old man who lives in Yorktown, VA, originally from Pittsburgh, PA. I have been married for 4 years to my lovely wife.

I obtained a master's degree in community healthcare management and a bachelor's degree in nursing.

I currently work in the managed care industry as a health services administrator contracting for the Department of Defense.

I have worked in critical care nursing, home health nursing, correctional health care administration ,and long term care risk management.

As a hard workign citizen, I expect value for my money paid in taxes. We pay way too much in taxes. We are overpaying for ineffective, unnecessary, and unconstitutional government programs and services.
Government programs need to be re-evaluated against whether or not they are constitutionally permitted.

My hard earned dollars are being devalued as a result of poor economic policy of the Federal Reserve Bank that chooses to get wealthy off of American taxpayer's livelihood.

Our country is facing a perilous future. I fear for our children and future grandchildren who stand to inherit a nation that will be broken beyond repair in a world that does not agree with our prinicples of individual rights to liberty. We need to fix what is wrong by electing leaders who will stop hurting America through wreckless policies, regulations, and legislation.

If I am sounding the alarm, you can bet that there is a fire in the house. I am new to politics. While I have voted in past elections, I tended to go with the mainstream candidates rather than independents for fear of wasting my vote or helping my least like candidate. I felt that there was no way to beat the same old rhetoric and no way to get beyond mainstream media reporting of what they felt the issues were and who the "good" candidates were.

With the advent of the internet and better availability of information, I have come to learn that as a voter, I have been duped into participating in an electoral system that assures perpetuation of they tyranny that has plagued our federal government these past 25 years.

No longer can I sit idly back and think that I cannot make a difference. The optimism and hope, the belief in the ability to achieve the impossible are compelling me to make a stand on behalf of liberty. These are nostalgic sentiment that once made this country great.

I believe that us Ron Paul supporters can rekindle that magical force that is American pride. For too long, it has been dormant and allowed to wither into apathy. No more. Liberty loving Americans have heard the sound of the alarm and we are here to save our belove nation, starting with the grassroots campaign to elect Ron Paul to the office of the President of the United States of America.

Sent by Robert Lehman | 10:33 PM ET | 12-18-2007