A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jim, Wshington, D.C. — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:04:07 GMT

I know absolutely nothing about Ron Paul. What's he stand for? What's he stand against? Is he just another chimp from Texas? What's his deal? Anybody heard of this guy?

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:07:46 GMT

I hope all the people who have been begging for coverage of Ron Paul are taking note of this article. Personally, I don't have a whole lot of faith in anyone that promises to abolish personal income tax. Where exactly are we going to get the money to run the federal government? I suppose if I really cared, I would look into that. But sadly, I am not yet convinced that he will be a legitimate threat in the primary season, let alone the general election.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

bret, atl, ga — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:08:58 GMT

ronpaul2008.com has all your answers, my friend. What he stands for is REAL CHANGE, and REAL HONESTY. You will never hear a politician talk like Ron Paul talks. It is an amazing experience. And a very uplifting and hopeful one as well. I urge you to do a search on youtube for "Ron Paul Stop Dreaming" ...

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jeffrey, Little Rock, AR — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:10:37 GMT

Just go to ronpaul2008.com and click on issues or go to youtube.com or google.com and type in Ron Paul.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jeffrey, Little Rock, AR — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:12:32 GMT

Our personal income tax money is used for our national debt. Go to youtube.com and type in American: Freedom to Fascism and it will show you all you need to know about the IRS and personal income tax.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

brett rayno chandler, az — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:16:16 GMT

well we need federal income tax at this time to take care of all the subsidies that make the rich richer -

- simple economics dictates that if free people have more $ to spend, we will spend it the more wisely than any government.

local support for local problems...

that is the way it was designed to be about 220 years ago. small government - lots of individual privacy

FYI Ron Paul voted against the war and against the (un)patriot act - check out ronpaul2008.com

once you read about him and listen to him you will feel good again about being an American.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Chad, Philadelphia, PA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:19:43 GMT

Carrie, first of all his vision involves the Federal Government not doing as much as it does right now, as many of the powers it currently has have been usurped from the States.

However, if we got rid of the entire Personal Incom Tax right now, we'd STILL have enough revenue to cover the budget from the year 2000.

To quote Ron Paul, "Does anyone seriously believe we could not find ways to cut spending back to 2000 levels?"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FG_HuFtP8w8

That is a great video

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Richard, Charleston, WV — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:20:29 GMT

Brief Overview of Congressman Paul’s Record:

He has never voted to raise taxes.
He has never voted for an unbalanced budget.
He has never voted for a federal restriction on gun ownership.
He has never voted to raise congressional pay.
He has never taken a government-paid junket.
He has never voted to increase the power of the executive branch.

He voted against the Patriot Act.
He voted against regulating the Internet.
He voted against the Iraq war.

He does not participate in the lucrative congressional pension program.
He returns a portion of his annual congressional office budget to the U.S. treasury every year.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Suzan, Marietta GA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:20:32 GMT

Regarding income tax: If we reduce our runaway government spending, we won't need the income tax.

I've researched all the candidates and I believe that Ron Paul is uniquely qualified to be our next President. We need to return to the Constitution, we need honesty in Washington, fresh new ideas, and we need big changes. This is only the beginning of the Ron Paul revolution. Every week, the meetup groups grow in numbers. I think that all of the naysayers will be surprised when Dr. Paul becomes a first-tier candidate. If he wins the Republican primary, he'll easily win the Presidency. He's the only one who can turn this country around. Don't be afraid to think for yourself and check him out. Don't let the news media decide the Presidency for you. www.ronpaullibrary.com

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Geoff, Elgin, IL — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:22:22 GMT

Granted, watching him speak is a good time. But, the "hands-off" approach to foreign affairs is shortsighted at best and laughable at worst.
Have you any idea how dependent we are on the global economy?
To pretend as though it doesn't affect us would be a disaster.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

G Clarke, London, England — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:22:52 GMT

Dear Jim, Washington, D.C.,
He ain't no Chimpanzee as far as I can see,
but he may be your saviour against the current Bush futility.
He stands for your constitution and honour, he stands for turning the Good old USA back on track, and as far as I know, if the Bush goons don't assassinate him, the world may come to love the United States once more instead of loath what it now represents (Abhorrent destruction in the pursuance of greed).
From a despairing but interested foreigner (British), please hear this honourable man out!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Steve Goettler, Butler, PA. — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:23:01 GMT

The money that runs the federal government does not come from personal income taxes. That all goes to the international bankers who lend our government money. Ron Paul wants to change that system because the government doesn't need to borrow money from the feds, only to have the tax payers pay thier income tax as interest to them. The government should regulate the national money supply interest free and keep the wealth in the hands of the people.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Chad, Fort Worth, TX — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:24:21 GMT

Dr. Paul is a true statesman urging the nation to return to the rule of law. He is a constitutionalist.

In my humble opinion, he is the only candidate that will address our upcoming financial crisis. He is the only candidate who either understands or will speak publicly about the root of this crisis.

Begin here :

http://www.ronpaul2008.com/about

Then his interview at Google :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_vnfkDiVXjc

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Flo — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:24:31 GMT

Real change, Real honesty, real integrity. The federal income tax could have been abolished a long time ago on the working person. The only reason we still have it is so the government can continue to grow. Ron Reagan's grace commission told us clearly that no 1cent of the income tax pays for services. It pays interest. That's all.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Steven T. Cramer — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:26:57 GMT

"Even today, individual income taxes account for only approximately one-third of federal revenue. Eliminating one-third of the proposed 2007 budget would still leave federal spending at roughly $1.8 trillion – a sum greater than the budget just 6 years ago in 2000! Does anyone seriously believe we could not find ways to cut spending back to 2000 levels? Perhaps the idea of an America without an income tax is not so radical after all."

By Dr. Paul himself: ttp://www.lewrockwell.com/paul/paul316.html

A peek at Ron Paul's support

jerry/corpus christi texas — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:29:49 GMT

Carrie, need to read up on the fair tax with Neal Boortz and John Linder. Ron Paul is a good man, some of his stuff is a little wild, which is why he is polling at a round 2%. Can't go anywhere but up. Ted kennedy is really against the fair tax, but after the beating that nnobel prize economist took at the hands of Boortz, he hasn't answered Boort's challenge to a debate. AFter what he did to Randi Rhodes at Air America, I'd be afraid to debate him on anything.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Willis, Hattiesburg,MS — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:30:34 GMT

The United States was never supposed to have an income tax. We have been stolen from for our entire lives thinking, "That is just how things work."

Ron Paul is the teacher. He is the one who is advocating true freedom and the American way. This race is not about conservative or liberal. This race is whether you are for the state owning your life (statist), or you owning your life (non-statist).

We have the most liberal people in the South raising funds and working for Ron Paul, because it is not about traditional party lines.

Either you think that big government can successfully run people's lives or you believe in individual liberty. I know which one is inherently American, do you?

Ron Paul is for everyone. Research him, better yet, go to Ron Paul school, his techings are found in various places on the internet.

This is a good cache of Ron Paul info:

www.lewrockwell.com/paul/

www.ronpaulaudio.com

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Richard M. Connnelly, Deer Creek, MN — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:31:35 GMT

The Ron Paul Revolution has begun!!!!!!! woooooooohooooooooo!!!! The end of the oligarchy of the elite that have ruined this nation has begun! We have begun our return back to representative government under the constraints of limited government outlined by our Founding Fathers.

Ron Paul is going to become a "household" word very soon...so get used to it. Watch out! The elite knows this and they will very soon use the mass media to attack this Patriot with personal attacks. But the American people are too smart for these elitist hucksters...we are sick and tired of them!!!

www.RonPaul2008.com ...and also join the yahoo groups supporting Ron Paul.

This American is Mad as Hell and Isn't going to take it anymore!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Cameron, London, UK — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:32:48 GMT

The federal government was funded without income taxes up until 1913. That is over 100 years without income tax.
The lesson of taxation is they always get introduced in times of war, but never get reduced in times of peace.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Richard Fifield, Easton, PA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:35:30 GMT

If Rep. Paul truly stands for limited government, then I am for him.I do, however, believe that we must as a country remain internationalist. Therefore, if he is truly an isolationist, I cannot support him without qualification.

I will, however, vote for him, since he's closer to my vision of the ideal candidate than any of the others (of either party).

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Pat Krott — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:39:01 GMT

This guy is the real deal. Individual rights for everyone, power back to the states, smaller (and less expensive) federal government, and above all, his voting record shows a strict support for the Constitution.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Million, Franconia, VA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:39:04 GMT

i agree w/ Geoff from Elgin, IL, we need to rely on other countries to send us cheap foreign labor and dirt cheap Wal*Mart goods. we also need to rely solely on petrol for energy. as a country, we cannot be fully fulfilled unless we are completely dependent on other nations that buy our debt (China) and fuel our deficit-driven economy!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Pat Krott — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:40:42 GMT

he's not an isolationist at all. He just doesn't think we should be on the offensive and try to spread our way of life to countries who did not invite us there.

He supports alliances and free trade with all. He just doesnt feel we should force our way of life on other nations through the use of force.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Andrea Thorn, Chicago, IL — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:41:11 GMT

Carrie, how can you not care where the money is being spent? It is your money, after all!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tim — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:41:54 GMT

"Have you any idea how dependent we are on the global economy?
To pretend as though it doesn't affect us would be a disaster." - Geoff

Geoff, Ron Paul does not want to isolate ourselves from the world. He wants us to engage in free trade and diplomacy. He has correctly asserted that George Bush has isolated from the world. We now have more enemies and less friends. We are spending more and more on this unneccesary war. We need to end this excessive spending and let people keep their hard-earned money so we can drive our economy

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Christopher Scott, Houston, TX — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:42:20 GMT

Ron Paul's got my vote. Anyone who has voted against taxes for 16 years, every time, is on my side. If you haven't heard of him yet, you've had your head in the sand

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Brandon, Columbia, MO — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:42:41 GMT

This is for Geoff from Elgin, IL.

The hands off approach to foreign policy actual works better in a global economy than our current system. It is partly because we are dependent on it and partly because it makes more economic sense (Econ 101: specialization). As the quote goes, "align ourselves with no one and trade with everyone." We become a wealthy nation again without entanglements and foreign debts.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

DFW — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:43:27 GMT

Ron Paul for President. The mainsteam media is ignoring him. If someone has something good to say, the news should report it. All I have seen on tv is Ron Paul is a crazy man. STOP and Search for the truth, because the truth is not in mainstream media. I am just thankful that we still have the Internet and its freedom to discuss. FOR NOW at least.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jeff S. — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:43:30 GMT

Candidates@Google Interview (Silicon Valley, CA): Ron Paul – 2007 July 13 (1 hour, 5 minutes)

Google Interviewer: "We've never gotten so many questions on our…system for a presidential candidate who has visited Google."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCM_wQy4YVg

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Chuck Brothers, Hinesville, GA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:44:18 GMT

When I enlisted in the US Air Force in 1982, I swore an oath to the Constitution, to protect it against all enemies, both foreign and domestic. Up until recently, I hadn't read that old document. The past few years, I've read the Constitution over and over again, along with reading supporting documents like the Federalist, the Anti-Federalist Papers, and the ratification debates by the original 13 sovereign states. Dr. Paul's message is that of the Founding Fathers. Liberty, Republicanism, and Limited Government. That is why I will be voting for Dr. Paul.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Andy, Silver Spring, MD — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:46:09 GMT

maybe someone should explain that Ron Paul is a MILITARY non-interventionist, he does not want to invade every country that does things differently than we do. he understands that there are cultures (like the Middle East) that we do not understand. he wants to open business channels w/ other countries as he is a true free-trade believer.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Subir Grewal, New City, NY — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:46:10 GMT

learn about the history of the Federal Reserve, which has bankrupted our nation and it is why we pay an income tax:

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7757684583209015812&q=federal+reserve&total=1292&start=10&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=4

A peek at Ron Paul's support

MK,MO — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:46:18 GMT

this ron paul cat does have some interesting ideas, but how can a candidate without the backing of the corporate machine stand a chance in politics today? If you look at the presumed front running candidates of either party as of now you will find they are both corporate owned entities, how does an honest person stand a chance against the powers that be? from what I have found on mr paul he really is a good person and has a long history of doing the right thing, no other candidate can make that statement.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Holly, Pasadena, CA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:46:59 GMT

Looking at Ron Paul's stand on issues only SOUNDS unreal and unworkable. It's actually quite workable. The biggest problem is people have been misled to think the income tax pays for govt services (it does not), that Ron Paul is an "isolationist" (he is a non-interventionist), and that the global economy will somehow be disrupted if we disassociate ourselves from so-called 'free trade' agreements and outside organizations (it will not).
It does take more than 30 seconds of reading and perhaps a bit of education to fully grasp what Dr Paul is saying, but it is so worth it. He is the only candidate addressing the serious problems facing our national sovereignty, economy and civil liberties.
Either take the time now to learn what is at stake, or regret it in a few years when the US is a broke police state.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Kylan, San Diego, CA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:47:33 GMT

Geoff from Illinois... the best way to keep a strong global economy is to stop attacking everyone. In fact if you freely trade (something Ron Paul supports a lot more than any other candidate) then you will find a sort of synergy in the global market where nations would be deterred from attacking each other because all their economies are more inter-dependent.
People accuse Paul of being an isolationist but the isolationist doctrine necessitates high taxes and tariffs to oppose free trade.
RP FTW.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

TEC-Spring-TX — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:49:01 GMT

jerry/corpus christi texas, Bortz is a libertarian and so is Ron Paul. What does the Mouth of the south say about Paul?

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Trent, Denham Springs, LA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:50:35 GMT

As for the Income Tax:

The income tax accounts for 47% of the federal budget. If we swcale back spending to a pre-1997 size (not exactly small government, just responsible) then this is EASILY accomplishable--as pre-1997 we were spending 76% less money.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Pamela Light, Shirley, New York — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:51:16 GMT

Ron Paul Is Hope For America! He beleves In the Constitution. The true Law of this Land! He also for the People and our needs! Go check Him Out! He got My Vote!!! All the rest Lie all of the Time.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

joshua, Manhattan, NY — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:51:51 GMT

I am a liberal who is part of this revolution. We need change desperately and I will not waste my vote on a Dem who demures about nuking Iran. We need leaders who will unequivacably say NO to WWIII. We who care about our world are ready to take a stand before our descent into tyranny. Peace.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

tarran — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:53:59 GMT

Patt,

Ron Paul does not support alliances. He views alliances as snaring the U.S. government into foreign adventures. He believes in free trade (not the managed trade of CAFTA and NAFTA) with all.

Thus, he would have a country that trades with everyone and attacks no one. Since sanctions, embargoes, and protectionism has pushed the U.S. into many of its major wars, his is truly the way of peace.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Richard Fifield, Easton, PA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:55:22 GMT

Pat Krott--If that is the case (and I trust you when you say that), then Rep. Paul is the right man to be President.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Spencer, Salt Lake City UT — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:10:02 GMT

To Carrie:

Ron Paul wants to abolish the Federal Income Tax. Ronald Reagan's Grace Commission inquiry discovered and reported that ALL of the revenues collected from the income tax go only to pay for the INTEREST on the national debt, and not for government services. Roads are paid for by gas taxes, at state and Federal levels. This is why the Federal Reserve needs to be phased out as well, because they are a private bank with a monopoly on money printing that we actually pay interest to (creating more debt) for each dollar printed. Its as if Congress has a giant "overdraft protection" line of credit on their bank account, except with no limit.

The answer to your question "how would we pay for government" is: The same way we did before 1913 when the Income Tax and Federal Reserve were set up. The Federal government funded itself through other means (universal, non-protectionist tarriffs, corporate gains taxes, etc.) up until then. We would have to go back to believing in limited government in order for that to happen though.

Feel free to email me if you have sincere questions about why you should support Ron Paul. I can help address the issues. If you like Ron Paul's message, go to meetup dot com and join one in your area!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:10:58 GMT

I am prefacing this by saying that I have not had time to look at all the websites that have been suggested, so don't jump down my throat. In case you haven't noticed, I'm not much into the economic side of politics; most of this stuff goes way over my head, but in that respect, I am probably more like the average voter than the avid political junkie.

First of all, I never said I don't care where our money is being spent. I said if I cared about Ron Paul's plans, I would look into how he intended to pay for it.

Secondly, there is a lot of conflicting information. Some people say that a fairly significant portion of the budget comes from personal income tax, while others say that no personal income tax is used to run the government. Which is it?

Third, for all of you who say that even without the personal income tax, we would be able to spend as we did in 2000 or 1997...is that really going to get the job done? In 2000, there was no War on Terror. There was no invasion into Iraq. There was no Department of Homeland Security, for that matter. We live in a different world than we did then - a more costly world, largely due to Bush's policies.

And finally, as far as the income tax being used to pay our national debt - how do you propose we pay without it? Or should we just not pay it? That seems incredibly irresponsible to me, so I certainly hope no one is suggesting we ignore those who have lent us enormous sums of money over the years.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bill, San Diego — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:14:34 GMT

The old stream media has been making a case for how Democrats have more small donors than the front running Republicans.

They say how it's quite significant that Obama has 28% of his donations being under $200 while the closest Republican is at 17%.

They fail to mention that 47% of Ron Paul's donations are under $200 and he still surpassed McCain and is closing in on Romney.

Don't write off Ron Paul just because he doesn't have corporate and lobbyist backing like the others.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

shawn, Wisconsin — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:16:26 GMT

Good to see some mainstream media actually giving some attention to a REAL American presidential candidate! Go Dr. Paul!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Scott W. — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:19:01 GMT

Dr. Ron Paul has revived my hope that America can once again be the greatest Nation on Earth. Freedom is the answer.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

rich,providence — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:22:57 GMT

We dont need Homeland Security first this is the USA
not the homeland and second 4-5 thousand illegals cross our border every night where is homeland security there close it down its a waste of money

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Andrew ,NJ — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:24:38 GMT

Almost everyone I know, who heard of the actual Ron Paul message(and not the crap Fox labels him), has become an avid Ron Paul supporter.

I have done a lot of firsts since I learned about Ron Paul
1-For the first time ever, I donated money to a politician
2-For the first time ever, I called in to a radio show to voice my opinion about a candidate, didn't get on...but still for someone who isn't a fan of phone calls that was a big feat for me.
3-For the first time ever, I actually got involved in the grass roots effort
4-For the first time ever, I actually believe a politician
5-For the first time ever, I will vote in the primaries
6-For the first time ever, I actually bring up politics, just so that I can tell more people about RP.
7-For the first time ever, I've spent my free time looking for new appearances by the politician online
8-For the first time ever, I feel good about my vote

And thats the case for many of Ron Paul supporters...his message resonates with the disenfranchised voter(you know that 50% of the country that doesn't turn out to vote)...and since we realize that this country is screwed if we don't get him elected, we change parties, just to be able to vote for him in the primaries.

So don't discount Ron Paul yet...even if he ends up with 5% in the polls, he can still win the primaries, because his supporters will actually go out and vote

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bob, Dallas, TX — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:25:38 GMT

Ron Paul is what this country need, we dont need another liberal or another guy who can only say "terrorism" (Guiliani)

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Chris, Knoxville TN — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:26:59 GMT

I think many are confused about the difference between "isolationist" and "non-interventionist". Ron Paul wants to TRADE with other nations, but does not want to intervene in their political affairs through the barrel of a gun.
One of his examples is Vietnam - we are doing far better at trading with Vietnam than we ever did fighting there. I suppose Korea is a similar situation.
RONPAUL2008!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

JWilson, Atlanta, GA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:30:10 GMT

"I know absolutely nothing about Ron Paul. What's he stand for? What's he stand against? Is he just another chimp from Texas? What's his deal? Anybody heard of this guy?"
Jim, Wshington, D.C. (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 4:04 PM)

Great opening post. I guess you'll be making your decision on who to vote for from CNN/Fox soundbites, especially considering the lack of attention this guy gets from MSM. Very scary. Try reading and doing some research on your own.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jaime — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:30:19 GMT

I am from Houston. I have been reading/listening Dr. Paul for years. I am voting for Dr. Paul

I oppose the "Fair Tax." Before the FT can be implemented the 16th amendment MUST be repealed, otherwise, we end up with both. I also oppose the so called FT because is another direct link between the Federal government and citizens of a State. How long before you could not buy anything unless you have a Real ID? Rememeber that the poor are always catered by politicians and how can the governmnet very your tax expenditures for the poor to get their refunds?

Abolish the Income Tax and replace it with .... nothing.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tom Dybowski,Vancouver Canada — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:30:54 GMT

here in Canada we are also excited that finally a real statesman man of peace and individual liberty defender of the Constitution is running for president...

everyone I introduced to Ron Paul message is now a supporter and that tells me that not only he has a chance to win but if the growth of this movement continues at this pace he will win in a landslide!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

nv, chicago, il — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:31:30 GMT

oh, and not all ron paul supporters are 20-somethings.. I happen to be 27, but just attended a meetup last night of 20 people and the age ranged from 18 up to 60's and 70's. he's not a candidate for young people, he's a candidate for ANYONE who wants to keep their inalienable rights (which have been slowly alienated from us!)

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bradley, Washington, DC — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:33:11 GMT

I was at the rooftop party here--there were at least 50 people at any given time with another dozen or two who left early or came late. The message is easy to understand:

The Ron Paul FREEDOM PRINCIPLES

Rights belong to individuals, not groups.
Property should be owned by people, not government.
All voluntary associations should be permissible -- economic and social.
The government's monetary role is to maintain the integrity of the monetary unit, not participate in fraud.
Government exists to protect liberty, not to redistribute wealth or to grant special privileges.
The lives and actions of people are their own responsibility, not the government's.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Dan Reale — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:33:58 GMT

To Carrie from Eastern Iowa:

Google "Grace Commission". Our income taxes do no more than pay interest on trhe national debt, which is created by the Fed's creation of money.

Government, within Constitutional limits, is not only well funded by duties, tarriffs, and imposts, but it had a surplus before 1913.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Aaron, Mesa, AZ — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:34:07 GMT

Thanks to Andrew Merten for the article on the topic of Ron Paul's grassroots support. This is how Ron Paul will be able to get his message out to all the farm houses, apartments and suburbs across America.

Ron Paul's grassroots supporters are currently calling and writing Iowans to spread name recognition and introduce them to his message before the Ames straw poll. All with their own time and money. We all hope 10,000 Iowans will journey to Ames and cast their vote for freedom.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jonathon, New York, NY — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:35:02 GMT

It's depressing to see how ignorant we've become(some, not all of course)...We don't even realize this country was built without an income tax and a central bank (Thank you Pres. Jackson)...We don't realize that NOW our "government" borrows or prints its way to solvency while the income taxes are collateral against the debt we owe the Banking Cartel (fed) and are mostly used to pay off the ever expanding public debt and interest... We don't realize that it was the advice of George Washington and most of the Founders not to enter "entangling alliances" and embark on imperial global adventures... We don't even realize that our country is a Constitutional Republic ... NOT a democracy

Wake up people! Its been a century since we've had a candidate that Jefferson, Madison, and Adams would be proud of...

“In the beginning of a change, the Patriot is a scarce man, Brave, Hated, and Scorned. When his cause succeeds however,the timid join him, For then it costs nothing to be a Patriot.” - Mark Twain

Think about it...

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Gery — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:37:11 GMT

As you can see I am not American but I do care for what is happening in the US because it will affect us all globally.
First a reply to Carrie, Eastern Iowa, please get your fact strait THERE IS NOT SUCH THING AS INCOME TAX, AT LEAST NOT LEAGAL!!! SEE
http://global-collective-conciseness.blogspot.com/2007/04/america-freedom-to-fascism-aaron-russo.html">http://global-collective-conciseness.blogspot.com/2007/04/america-freedom-to-fascism-aaron-russo.html

I am not really into politics but if there is a person who can have a global impact then I am sure it is presidential candidate Ron Paul. This person with a good young team to back him up could make a difference not only for the USA but for the world! That's why I put him on my blog.Please try to be interested in this and have a look even if you are not an American like me but because it will have an impact on us all globally. Take care you all...
(My Blog go's a bit further)
http://global-collective-conciseness.blogspot.com/

A peek at Ron Paul's support

David, Los Angeles, CA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:37:29 GMT

Just watch the man speak (youtube), you will instantly be hooked! To this point, he has addressed every concern/question of mine. So if you doubt him now, just educate yourself and make a REAL assessment. This article, while somewhat accurate, is still cursory. RP's politics and opinions run much deeper. RON PAUL 2008! ps Abolish electronic voting machines!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bruce, LV — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:37:43 GMT

If I read correctly, Dr. Paul would've kept the USA out of WWII, right? And isn't he rather anti-Israel?
And he also expects the government to stage a terrorist event?

Sorry, 3 strikes.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bill- Raleigh, NC — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:40:27 GMT

Who do you want in Washington to oppose the forces that want to increase govt? Or, do you want someone who will concede like Rudy, where the debate becomes at what percentage do we increase it, or do we just stop with Iran? Or, do you want someone that will take a stand and actually create an environment whereby checks and balances are restored in our govt? I say now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country. Ron Paul 2008!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Chris — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:40:36 GMT

I don't know about anyone else, but the Constitution still means something to me. Ron Paul is the only candidate who even cares about it. He's got my vote and enthusiastic support.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Ben, TN — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:45:48 GMT

MK from MO, I and many others completely agree that he is fighting an uphill battle against corporate America. But in the end, votes are made by the people, not corporations. This is why the Ron Paul supporters are so excited and motivated, because this is the the epitome of grassroots support.

I will admit that I have had an epiphany of sorts while researching Dr. Paul. It's kind of like The Matrix, where you've lived your whole life watching CNN and shouting "USA is the greatest!", but then you realize the 'real' world is not the same as you see on TV, and the bias of the media is a lot worse than you realize, and you understand just how bad corporatism and blind patriotism have kept us from really understanding how our nation's actions affect the world.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Mike, Cape Coral, FL — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:47:56 GMT

Ron Paul's interview at Google headquarters will give you a comprehensive look at who Ron Paul is.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCM_wQy4YVg

A peek at Ron Paul's support

brody brohams, Santa Cruz, CA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:51:02 GMT

Ron Paul is the dream candidate that America has been waiting for. He is a true representative of the people and a Constitutionalist that believes in liberty, not another establishment candidate that would give us more of the same.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Michael Wagner — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 21:55:35 GMT

To MK who asked how Ron Paul can win when he doesn't have the support of the corporate machine. The answer is simple - if he has YOUR support he cannot lose. If you like Ron's message (and remember - he always says it's not about him, it's about his message) join your local meetup group and get busy. Who needs tens of millions of dollars when he has tens of thousands of US behind him. Take a look at the MeetUp statistics. Ron Paul has more groups and members than all of the other candidates COMBINED!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

RVB, San Francisco, CA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:01:45 GMT

Ron Paul firmly believes in the principle that local issues are best solved on the local level, not by the far removed politicians in Washington (Federal govt) and most certainly not by the powerful lobbies. This logic is very simple, is one of the key tenets of our Republic, and follows: We the People will determine what is best within our own communities because we know our own dislikes, desires, and interests best. If you think about it this is the only way a government 'By the People For the People' can truly operate. When politicians in Washington legislate nationally it is the powerful lobbies and special interests who are in control of policy. As a result Federally legislated solutions will typically be wrong for most while benefiting the few. ALL of the other candidates Democrat and Republican are part of this power lobby / special interest machine that is ruining our country. Ron Paul is the exception and his record is the proof. Do your own research on the internet and learn about the issues. Then, register as a Republican and vote for Dr. Ron Paul in the Republican primary. Hope for America!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

lester, MA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:01:51 GMT

even if you don't believe in his theories regarding hands off foreign policy, now wouldn't be a bad time to have someone who DOES have those beliefs. I mean, at this historical moment, I don't think we need another lincoln or FDR. I think we need the opposite! You look in george bush's eyes and it's like, what crazy thing is he going to do next and who's minding the store while he's doing it. WHen he speaks I can just see planes falling out of the sky and earthquakes and I'm not even on LSD. They shuold just put him and his team on a mission to middle earth or something. build a colony on the moon or mars

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Josh McNattin — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:07:14 GMT

From YouTube: Ron Paul/Wake-Up - "Today individual income tax accounts for approximately one third of federal revenue. Eliminating one-third of the proposed 2007 budget would still leave federal spending at roughly 1.8 trillion dollars per year. A sum greater than the budget just six years ago in 2000." Ron Paul plans to do a lot of cutting of unnecessary expenditures, ones that fund policies and departments that encroach on personal liberty. The Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts would go bye bye as well I'm sure as many of the 750+ permanent military installations we have around the world. He wants to do away with federal subsidies and other hand-outs across the board (if it isn't profitable on it's own, why fund it?) Pork barrel spending, etc. When he's done, I would imagine that not only would we not need the personal income tax, but we'd probably be getting a lot more refund checks (though I imagine we'll want to pay off our multi-trillion dollar debt first) Ron Paul essentially wants to take us back to the original concept of a loose affiliation of sovereign states who make their own policies locally and are banded together primarily for the sake of the common defense. He believes that free people on their own do a better job of taking care of the issues that government tries to address, that they are better a pushing themselves to succeed. He fully expects that the vacuum of services left behind by the dismantling of socialist programs will eagerly be filled by private organizations, both for profit and not-for-profit, because they are services that need to be taken care of and the stewardship of that money will be handled with greater care because the people are doing the spending rather than being shaken down by the government and then letting officials spend it willy nilly with little accountability and with next to no consequence for their decisions. It's a little scary of an idea because we've been trained to be dependent on the government for so many things our whole lives, but it is a waste of our money and an encroachment on our liberty! RON PAUL 2008!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tom, Nashville TN — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:10:59 GMT

Bruce from LV,
It's not that Dr. Paul is an anti-Semite, it's that he is against ALL foreign intervention, which includes Israel. We supply everyone with weapons, and then 10 years later we're against them, and they rightly get upset at us....leading to hatred and attacks. On top of that, we're spending huge amounts of money that can stay in the country for better uses.

As far as staging an attack, it sounds crazy at first, but if you dig a little bit, the executive branch has been issuing a slew of executive orders that basically strip us of our rights in the name of 'terrorism.' These bypass Congress and don't allow judicial recourse. In that sense, the government isn't all sunshine and roses if you get a little bit below the surface.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Santa Cruz, CA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:26:58 GMT

Simple way to see where Ron Paul stands on any issue in detail, just put into google search his name and the subject of your questions and within minutes you will know.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jay, Dallas, TX — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:36:58 GMT

Well done MSNBC, I was pleased to read factual and unbiased article About Mr. Paul. That is all we ask: just tell the truth without predicting the future.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Dary, Jacksonville, FL — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:39:08 GMT

Since this article is about Ron Paul supporters, not Ron Paul himself, I'm going to leave a post about who I am.

I am 47 years old.
I work in IT.
I have a mortgage.
I like to play the drums.
I'm single.
I love my country.
I support Ron Paul because I believe that he is a principled man of integrity and honesty.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Zach, Missouri — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:41:22 GMT

Carrie, from Iowa----

Ron Paul would end costly commitments like the War on Terror and the War in Iraq. By cutting other govt waste (like the thousands of pork barrel projects) . . . it would be easy to pay off the national debt, have a smaller federal govt, AND eliminate the income tax.

Basically Ron Paul is just talking about a reboot. Much like is popular in entertainment today. Any time a movie series or franchise evolves way past the original intentions of its creators to be some weird and twisted version of what it was originally intended then the producers Reboot the franchise. Going back to the core values . . . think something along the lines of Batman. (This is a weird analogy I know, but bear with me). By the time Batman III, IV were made it was a campy convoluted version of itself. So recently they came out with a new Batman that threw off all the newer accumulated crap -- keeping what works, getting rid of what didn't, and returning to something more in spirit with the creators original intent.

Let's have a REBOOT of this country/this govt.

Go Ron Paul Revolution.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

The all-seeing eye — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:48:40 GMT

I just have a general observation. This story has over 70 comments, and basically all of them are pro-Paul. So I would imagine that the majority of us here are already planning to vote for him. However, there are several other articles in the list about Guiliani and the Democratic debate, yet few of the comments mention Dr. Paul. These are the people that have to be converted in order to win, but no one is addressing them. Just wanted to mention that.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Shannon, Bradenton Fl. — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:51:40 GMT

Carrie from E Iowa,

Do you know that the money our broke federal Government borrows, from the PRIVATELy OWNED Federal Reserve banks, is printed from out of thin air? These banks did nothing to work and earn it. The treasury gets the okay to print more money, and the private bankers get to get it paid back WITH Interest.

Research the REAL reason for why we fought the Revolutionary war and sought our independance from England. Bejamin Franklin was printing a local paper currency for the colonist to use. Local banks, who bought it with gold, were loaning money to the colonists, interest free, to help the local economy and it was thriving. England heard about this and forbad the colonist to loan money at zero interest. They insisted that money be borrowed from their banks with Interest. That was the final straw that broke the camels back and lead to the Revolution for our Independance from Englands control.

The Founding Fathers warned the future citizens of the U.S.A., to NEVER ammend the Constitional laws to allow for a centralized banking system outside of the U.S. Treasury. Research their warnings.

The European banks have been trying to get control of us, through control of our money, back again ever since. They finallly won control over us back, in 1913, when Woodrow Wilson signed the ammendment, that created the PRIVATE Federal Banking system, first made up of mostly European banks. The Rockefellers owned the bank in the U.S. Now banks in a country like China are a part of the system. They own 30% of the notes to our debt.

Our country has been hijacked by the Private Federal Reserve bankers, and the Big Corporations that have government contracts that make billions off of the money we borrow from the banks to hire them for services, like those of the Military Industrial Complex.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Loren, McLean, VA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:53:11 GMT

Wow, 70 comments in about 3 hours! The highest on the home page at the moment is 95 comments, but that took nearly 9 hours!

To quote RP, "Freedom is popular."

Cheers,

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jeff S. — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:58:57 GMT

Why does MSNBC.msn.com have a blackout on Ron Paul their "MSNBC Political Calendar" on the top right? Why don't they add the following upcoming Ron Paul events to their calendar?

Jul 28 San Antonio, TX
Ron Paul Supporter's Rally 12:00 PM CT
San Antonio, TX
Fundraiser 6:00 PM CT

Aug 03 Mars, PA
Ron Paul Pittsburgh Area Rally 8:00 PM ET

Aug 04 St. Louis, MO
Dr. Rand Paul: NFRA Convention 3:30 PM CT

Aug 05 Des Moines
Ron Paul in ABC Iowa Debate 8:00 AM CT

Aug 11 Ames, IA
Ron Paul Participates in Iowa Straw Poll 10:00 AM CT

Aug 26 Doyle Convention Center, Texas City, TX
Ron Paul's Texas Birthday Bar-B-Q Bash 1:00 PM CT

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Oliver, Boston MA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 22:59:44 GMT

Re. Not needing the income tax. It is crucially important when addressing the issue of abolishing the income tax that people point out that the federal government gets a *huge* amount of money from other sources most notably corporate tax, excise taxes, tariffs, fees etc. Obviously spending would need to be cut significantly (they could start with cutting foreign misadventure).

Please, when ppl say they don't understand Ron's position on income tax, point out the other sources of income for the federal govt!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Dave, Charlotte, NC — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:03:53 GMT

"We don't get our rights because we're gays, or women, or minorities. We get our rights from our Creator, as individuals, so everyone should be treated the same, as individuals." Ron Paul

Economic and foreign policy issues are crucial issues, but the true solution begins with us. We're ALL Americans. Not right-wing/left wing, young/old, men/women, gays/straights, blacks/whites, Democrats/Republicans.

United we stand...you know the rest of it. It's about time we banded together as one under a real man, while there is still one left who will stand up for what we want and fight to get the job done.

I ran into Congressman Paul in the airport in New Hampshire after the NH GOP debate and we spoke for a while. It's a singular experience to hear the truth from a 10 term Congressman who not only understands the issues at hand, but actually has the necessary knowledge of how our system works, legistaively, Judicially and economically to get America back on it's intended course.

I've been to hear him speak in Columbia, Greenville and Spartanburg, SC, Des Moines, Iowa, Manchester, NH, and have watched every YT vid available.

His message over 40 years has never changed. He's the Champion of the Constitution, and that's a great place to start, IMHO.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Paul j, Tempe, AZ — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:04:11 GMT

Too many Americans rely on information about the candidates being spoon fed to them by the mainstream media. Americans shouldn't trust a group too afraid to ask our government tough questions about the war.

Ron Paul voted against the war.

Ron Paul 2008!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bradley, Washington, DC — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:18:14 GMT

Bruce LV,

Dr. Paul wants to the US to implement sound monetary policies and be an example to the world. It was the central bank induced artificial economic boom-bust cycle that causes people to look for scapegoats (Jews for the Nazis). If we had stayed out of WWI, there would have been no WWII (says Churchill, et al.).

He opposes foreign aid, but is not anti-Israel. I'm going to a wedding this weekend in NY for a (Jewish) friend of mine who sent out this message to family and friends this week (from NYT magazine):

"Paul was in Congress when Israel bombed Iraq's Osirak nuclear plant in 1981 and — unlike the United Nations and the Reagan administration — defended its right to do so. He says Saudi Arabia has an influence on Washington equal to Israel's. His votes against support for Israel follow quite naturally from his opposition to all foreign aid. There is no sign that they reflect any special animus against the Jewish state."

Neither I nor Dr. Paul thinks 9/11 was an inside job. As far as understanding that governments create pretexts for war, remember the USS Maine and Gulf of Tonkin resolution, etc.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tyler, Red Bank, NJ — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:19:35 GMT

Great article! I'm really looking forward to the progress of the Ron Paul Revolution in August. My Ron Paul meetup group is having its first meeting this week!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Spencer, Salt Lake City, UT — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:20:35 GMT

Carrie,

The answer to your question about conflicting info on the budget lies in the fact that there is a huge deficit.

Its like having a credit card. When you pay the minimum balance to your card, you aren't actually paying for the things you bought with it, you're just paying the interest. However, it is your spending that creates the situation you're in and your payment of those minimum balances allows you to continue to have credit.

Now imagine if you had an unlimited line of credit, and that's what the private Federal Reserve enables congress to do. So, while none of the income Tax revenue actually pays towards the services, it does enable them in a sense that by paying the interest to the Federal Reserve on the national debt, Congress gets to continue spending just like with a credit card.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Gabe Harris, Boston, MA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:21:44 GMT

Ron Paul is supported by many highly educated people who do not take ideas or governance lightly. This is a truly American grassroots movement and it has the power to make the world a more peaceful prosperous place, but only if enough people are exposed to it.

Lower taxes, less wreckless foreign policy, more state level experimentation with education...less federal government red tape and homogenization.

Ron Paul 2008

A peek at Ron Paul's support

CKahn — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:27:28 GMT

"Where exactly are we going to get the money to run the federal government?"

I'll let Dr. Paul answer that with his own words from the debate over the 2007 budget:

"Even today, individual income taxes account for only approximately one-third of federal revenue. Eliminating one-third of the proposed 2007 budget would still leave federal spending at roughly $1.8 trillion – a sum greater than the budget just 6 years ago in 2000! Does anyone seriously believe we could not find ways to cut spending back to 2000 levels?"

The income tax is NOT the only source of revenue for the federal government. There are gasoline taxes, which pay for highways, usage fees on such things as airline tickets to fund the FAA, and many other like revenue sources. There is also massive borrowing--billions of dollars a day--from Japan, China and many other countries. The short fall of all that is made up by running the government's printing presses.

Dr. Paul's point is you can eliminate the IRS by reducing the budget to levels of only a few years ago. If we could put a man on the moon...

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Ray Harmon, Boise, Idaho — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:41:27 GMT

@Bruce, LV

QUOTE If I read correctly, Dr. Paul would've kept the USA out of WWII, right? And isn't he rather anti-Israel? And he also expects the government to stage a terrorist event? UNQUOTE

You get your information from FOXNEWS? That's a shame.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Paul Monroe, Boone North Carolina — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:41:41 GMT

Finally someone worth voting for! If every American would spend 10 minutes of their day to listen to what Ron Paul has to say, he would win in a massive landslide. Do what the mainstream GOP and Democratic party leaders don't want you to do: Look up Ron Paul!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

lester. MA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:42:15 GMT

ron paul didn't say the US was going to stage a terrorist attack. He made a reference to "another gulf of tonkin". The gulf of tonkin was the most recent incident in our history of the government using a phony provaction to do what they wanted to do anyway. This isn't conspiracy talk. there was no gulf of tonkin incident it was, in fact, not real. and this was, again, not without precedent. who can forget iraqi troops throwing kuwaiti babies on the ground when they took kuwait!? no one, because it didn't happen!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

granny miller plain grove pennsylvania — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:46:09 GMT

Can't wait to vote for Ron Paul!!
I haven't been this excited about an election in over 40 years!!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Independent, Texas — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:49:31 GMT

Here is what I see:

When I ask on other threads for supporters of a candidate to tell me why they support him or her, I get "he is really strong on defense", "she is respected by the world", "he really understands what we need", and "he is a real family man", etc.

When you ask Ron Paul supporters why they support him you get ANSWERS!! You get positions, explanations, and reasons for his positions. I find this quite extraordinary.

BTW - I'm a supporter for one and only one reason - Everything Dr. Paul says, he backs up with his vote. I've looked at this closely. I disagree with him on several things but, by God, the man backs up his mouth with his vote. Compare this to the Senate Rs that said they wanted to start pulling out of Iraq and then refused to vote accordingly.

He has my vote.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Carl, San Jose, CA — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:52:20 GMT

Check out the Ron Paul Library. More than 900 articles and speeches by Ron Paul covering all issues.

http://www.ronpaullibrary.org

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Nicole, Chicago, IL — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:53:15 GMT

Geoff-We have had an isolationist policy for years when it comes to trade. We don't trade with Cuba. Ron Paul would revive trade with Cuba. He has said he would like to trade with Iran, not bomb them.

Our support of sanctions and prevention of trade with countries like Lebanon and Libya has meant that other countries have had a chance to establish business relationships in those countries before us and it has been to our detriment.

So if you are looking for a presidential candidate who not only believes in free trade but also in the nation-to-nation relationships that will allow it to flourish, look no further than Dr. Paul.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Davy C Rockett — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 23:59:06 GMT

Ron Paul is the next level after the Reagan era of conservative politics.
In essence we will be going back to the rule of law, know as the constitution.
What will the change be like? Basically smaller Federal government.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Lori, Bethesda, MD — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:11:55 GMT

I was another attendee at the featured meeting. I'm at the end of the list of comments now having read through all of them. As a Ron Paul supporter I genuinely appreciate his integrity, his indepth understanding of the issues, and his Profound Wisdom about what it takes for human beings to function most effectively and cooperatively with one another.

There's something else though: Having read these comments and many like them on other blogs and forums I am beginning to see just how many other people there actually are in this country who also have integrity, intelligence and the wisdom to understand what Ron Paul and this particular moment in American History is really all about. I am becoming inspired as much by the presence of all of these other people as I am by Ron Paul himself. There is hope because we have someone to lead us now, and that hope is being multiplied exponentially through each and every one of us.

When you really take a look at it, its Pretty Awesome.

I am looking forward to a brighter future with all of you in it. : ))

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Kevin, Irvine CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:32:45 GMT

But, the "hands-off" approach to foreign affairs is shortsighted at best and laughable at worst.

I have just read "The Very Best Men" and am currently reading "Legacy of Ashes." Both deal with the almost unbroken record of failure demonstrated by the CIA. Anyone who believes our "hands-on" policy has made the world a better place or our nation more secure would be sadly mistaken. Dr. Paul is most emphatically not an isolationist. He is a non-interventionist which means that he believes in free-trade with other nations but recognizes that getting involved in their internal affairs is corrosive to our Republic.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Mike, San Antonio — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:34:00 GMT

"Granted, watching him speak is a good time. But, the "hands-off" approach to foreign affairs is shortsighted at best and laughable at worst.
Have you any idea how dependent we are on the global economy?
To pretend as though it doesn't affect us would be a disaster. "

-- Geoff, you are clearly missing the point. Doing business and talking with other nations is what makes us part of the global economy. Building military bases in foreign lands and pushing nuclear war to the brink, should not. You speak of being short-sighted, yet you ignore how our foreign policy has influenced the very region we are currently embroiled in.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Sean Edwards, Belmont CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:34:47 GMT

Posted by Bruce, LV:
"If I read correctly, Dr. Paul would've kept the USA out of WWII, right? And isn't he rather anti-Israel?
And he also expects the government to stage a terrorist event?

Sorry, 3 strikes."

1)Ron Paul follows the constitution, and according to that document, it is CONGRESS and not the EXECUTIVE branch that is responsible for taking the country to war.

2)Paul is not anti-Israel. He is opposed to ALL foreign entanglements and alliances. He is also opposed to all foreign aid. Government has no right to take your money and send it abroad.

3) Paul believes radical islamic terrorists perpetrated 9/11. He is also aware that the US government has used staged events, such as the gulf of tonkin incident, to drag an unwilling country into war. He does worry about this possibility and fears a similar occurence happening with Iran.

4) Three strikes? Why do the rules of baseball become the basis of public policy for so many people?

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Mike — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:43:34 GMT

Ron Paul not only advocates the kind of government I believe in, but he also has the 20 year voting record to prove that he sticks by the principles he advocates.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tom Lundy — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:48:13 GMT

“Even today individual income taxes account for only approximately one third of federal revenue. Eliminating one-third of the proposed 2007 budget would still leave federal sending at roughly 1.8 trillion. A sum greater than the budget just 6 years ago in 2000. Does anyone seriously believe we could not find ways to cut spending back to 2000 levels?”
Congressman Ron Paul
April 11, 2006

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Hercules Barclay — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:58:21 GMT

Jim, Wshington, D.C. (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 4:04 PM)

Do your homework son. Ron Paul is a great man. Attend a MeetUp group in you area. Nice people, free food, arts & crafts, intellectual conversation, sing songs, watch and make videos. It's so much fun. You will be shocked to find yourself cheering breathlessly. And you just might find out what the true spirit of political activism means. You don't even need an invitation. Just log on, sign up and attend. And just like that you will have that many more friends who share a common love and passion for this country of ours.....Good luck

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Paul — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:58:46 GMT

It's very simple. Don't pay any attention to the National media, they Lie... Just get out and Vote For Ron Paul in the primary. The elite are freaking out about Ron Paul, thats why they refuse to cover him in the meadia. The truth scares the hell out of these people. The last thing they want is YOU, getting the truth! I get into conversations all the time about 911 and other issues and 99% of the people when I ask them , "Have you done any research" say NO, and the other 1% say a little. That is not good enough. If you care at all. How can anyone make a comment on issues they have never even looked into? America is so use to getting there ass wiped by Government they don't have a clue. Think about it....They don't want you to know about Ron Paul for a reason! People will have to make up there own minds, why that is...
All the media in the country is run by 4 corperations! WAKE UP!
Vote Ron Paul 2008

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Clay, San Jose, CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 01:04:20 GMT

Ron Paul is what ALL americans are looking for, just not all realize it yet.

Search for him, and listen to him. Because a trend of politicians like him needs to start so we can get this country back on track.

This is the first time I have ever contributed or voted for a candidate. I'm excited, and it's great.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Frank in Ohio — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 01:05:23 GMT

TEC,

While Neal Boortz lays claim to being a libertarian, he is also a war hawk like Sean Hannity and believes that continuing the "war on terror" throughout the middle east indefinitely is necessary and the defining issue of our time. I believe he is wrong, as does Ron Paul. Check out some of the resources on Ron Paul that others have posted here (i.e.-youtube, etc.) to see what I mean.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Julie Borowski, Damascus, Maryland — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 01:14:31 GMT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FG_HuFtP8w8
a video on ron paul.
and even if we eliminate the income tax, we would still have MORE money than we had in 2000. we just need to end this crazy spending and expensive war, and getting rid of the income tax is doable.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Dale Fitz — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 01:15:07 GMT

Great article, guys. I've read all the comments, and they make me think that not only does Ron Paul have a shot at winning, it seems like it's a foregone conclusion. This man inspires passion in people the way no other modern politician ever has. Everyone who supports Dr. Paul will make every effort to vote for him in the primaries, something that no other candidate can count on. Even if only 5% of the population supports him, but they ALL show up to vote in their primary, he will win by a landslide. I have a few "Articles from the Future" on my website that I think will probably come true- check them out at http://dickfitz2.blogspot.com/ and let me know what you think!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Ron, St Louis, MO — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 01:15:54 GMT

Carrie,
there really isn't conflicting information about the income tax and federal spending. Part of federal spending is on programs, and part is to pay the interest on the federal debt. If the programs were cut back sufficiently, there would be enough left over to pay the interest on the debt AND eliminate personal income taxes. Cutting federal spending to the same levels as they were somewhere between 1997 and 2000 would give us the ability to do this.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

justin Wilson — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 01:22:16 GMT

Please look up on Google video, "The U.N. Deception" by the John Birch Society. Then you'll know who to vote for in 2008!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

RB, Myakka City, FL. — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 01:31:11 GMT

VOTE YES, FOR DR.NO
RON PAUL FOR PRESIDENT 2008

A peek at Ron Paul's support

RB, Myakka City, FL. — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 01:32:19 GMT

VOTE YES, FOR DR.NO
RON PAUL FOR PRESIDENT 2008

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Aimee, Almost in Mars, PA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 01:32:45 GMT

He is coming to Mars, PA on Aug.3? Can someone give me more info on that?

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Walt B., Jackson, MI — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 01:34:37 GMT

Carrie:

The income tax does raise a significant portion of total revenues: somewhere between 35-45%.

The point is: our economy can't afford it - we could easily cut back the size of the federal government to what is was just 8-10 years ago (& eliminate the need for these high tax burdens), but it will require a different mindset.

1. We can't go around policing the world (as you mentioned) The military budget is now well over $750 Billion $'s This alone is about what the income tax brings in
2. The government can't continue to provide entitlement programs for everyone and everything imaginable. People are going to have to take more responsibility for themselves.
3. We couldn't continue to have a huge army of bureaucrats stationed in washingtonDC and elsewhere all around the world. How much value do you think any of us get from that? It is reaching the point where over 40% of the people in this country work for government at some level and the federal government to a significant proportion.

Think about how strong our economy would be and how much wealthier all of us "little people" would be without these burdens. We could easily take care of ourselves. Most of us still do anyway.

The bottom line is this: The government (at all levels) spends over 50% of the income of this country in a hugely inefficient manner. At best, my guess is that we may get 20-30% of that value back in the services that are provided. So you can do the math, but 35-40% of our income (on average) is being squandered every year.

The problems of big government actually go alot deeper than that, including their corrosive effect on our psyche, depreciation of the money (inflation), etc. but that is how the economics effect you and me. I hope you will agree that it's time we quit feeding the pig.

ps: there are alot more efficient ways to deal with our security in this country, Ron Paul understands how to do it efficiently and more effectively

A peek at Ron Paul's support

John Howard, Alturas, CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 01:35:15 GMT

I am amazed at the number of political amateurs who think that you are isolationist if you don't want to station military troops in 130 countries around the world. The premise is that there are only two positions: isolation or empire. Non-intervention means that you don't deal by force, but you do deal by voluntary trade. Ron Paul has it exactly right.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Chuck, Georgia — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 01:39:48 GMT

WHEN I vote for Dr. Paul, I won't have to go home to wash off the filth afterward.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jeanette Doney Fort Bragg CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:25:33 GMT

I Love my country GO USA!
I Love my candidate GO Ron Paul!
I Love Ron Paul supporters, GO RP supporters!
I Love the Ron Paul Revolution!
Keep America Clean VOTE RP 08

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Sam Malone Houston, Texas — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:34:23 GMT

Ron Paul all the way baby, don't be fooled by Fred Thompson - found to have given Nixon calssified information in the watergate scandal.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Josh, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:39:30 GMT

It's a very bizarre thing to see people panic at the thought of not giving away a big chunk of the money they earn to the government.

STOP AND THINK ABOUT THAT PLEASE.

I can assure you Ron Paul does not want our police and military and national electric grid to go bankrupt on some tax gimmick.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Brandon, Culpeper VA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:43:57 GMT

Ron is the only honest man of the bunch. Educate yourselves

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Joe Hauptmann, Zionsville, IN 46077 — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:43:58 GMT

I was a Libertarian Party activist since the early 80's and supported Dr. Paul when he ran on the LP ticket. Ironically it is his defense policy that worries me the most. However I don't think America today has what it takes to spend the time and lives to correct Bush's errors in Iraq and give Iraqis the time they need to heal and pull together. If we are going to draw into ourselves and wait patiently for the next 9/11 at least Ron Paul will use the time to teach America what it means to be a nation of proud independent citizens again.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Mike, Hermosa Beach — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:47:14 GMT

Those who perceive Ron Paul as "odd" or a "novelty" simply display a lack of basic knowledge in regard to the founding principles of this country.

If you have thoroughly read the Constitution and still don't like Ron Paul, you probably don't believe in the system of government it establishes.

Ron Paul is the candidate which can unite paleoconservatives, libertarians, and some modern liberals. The bottom line is that he is America's last chance to be a free Republic. If you want to complete America's transformation into a socialist police state, Ron Paul is not your guy.

I went to my first Ron Paul meetup this weekend and was encouraged to see the spread in age and political perspectives.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Cameron Charlotte, NC — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:50:00 GMT

Ron Paul is NOT an isolationist!! I get so tired of hearing this charge. Isolation means to be totally alone, correct? Ron Paul does not advocate shutting America off from the rest of the world. He thinks we should be friends with other nations, trade with other nations, exchange visitors with other nations, but we shouldn't send troops to fight in their wars, and we shouldn't let the CIA try and steer their internal affairs.

We have 375,000 troops at 700 bases in 130 countries around the world. That costs us around $800 Billion a year right now.

As for the income tax, about 1/3 of our Federal money comes from income taxes. If we drastically slashed all the Federal expenses Dr. Paul wants to cut, Income tax would not be necessary, and all that extra money would float around in the economy from individuals rather than the government.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tom Blanton — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:54:36 GMT

Neal Boortz is no libertarian - he is a warmongering bigot. His stance on most issues (including the Fair Tax) is rejected by most libertarians. Ron Paul is not a purist libertarian on all issues - he is more of a constitutionalist. However, it seems a majority of Libertarian Party members support him.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Mike, Vista CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:57:47 GMT

Restore the Republic. Ron Paul 2008.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

John, San Diego, Ca — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:08:27 GMT

Richard,

I too share your concern that Dr. Paul is too isolationist, but here's some food for thought.

http://www.house.gov/paul/tst/tst2007/tst072307.htm

A peek at Ron Paul's support

George Riverside, CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:10:19 GMT

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Chuck, Haines, Oregon — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:11:40 GMT

"I know absolutely nothing about Ron Paul. What's he stand for? What's he stand against? Is he just another chimp from Texas? What's his deal? Anybody heard of this guy?"
Jim, Wshington, D.C. (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 4:04 PM)

This is a good example of why Clinton and Guiliani are leading the pack... People do not bother to do any investigation but vote for a name keeping the dinasours in office..... Ignorance is Bliss...!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

John Q — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:28:17 GMT

Carrie, until 1913 we had NO income tax in this country. From the founding until 1913 we built:
all the federal buildings, all the railroads including the transcontinental RR linking the east and west coast, and the ran the federal government.

This was done by tariffs on imported goods. This system worked and worked well for 125+ years. People who did not wish to be taxed could avoid it by purchasing goods made in the USA, instead of items from overseas.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

R. Iocca Las Vegas, NV — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:29:16 GMT

The one thing the government doesn't need is more money. It should try a novel thing and stop spending. More than 75% of the budget is for useless unconstitutional programs. If one wants the government to take care of them at someone elses expense, then why didn't they move to the Soviet Union or if you want a warmer tropical climate, there's always Cuba.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Victoria, San Diego, CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:30:26 GMT

Lori, I agree- I too am inspired by Ron Paul AND all the genuine support of his campaign and principles shown by individuals around the country! Its invigorating to see that there are many others who care about our great nation and the individual rights of our citizens!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

lyn — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:35:02 GMT

Come chuck and mark, this is getting ridiculous. you have given this guy his own personal web page. no discussion just how he is the second coming. the other candidates should demand equal time. 116 positive posts without any negative? all adoring members?

A peek at Ron Paul's support

C. Wesley Fowler, memphis, TN — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:47:13 GMT

I am very, very impressed with NBC for posting this balanced piece. Now, earn a full time viewer and give the man some TV time.

Ron Paul 08

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Wanda, Flat Rock, NC — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:47:48 GMT

Oh my, I often times forget that everyone has not heard of the great Congressman Dr. Ron Paul!

Dr. Ron Paul, is a true statesman and an honest man who will save our country from the evil politicians who want to ruin us.

Please Google Ron Paul, search him out on YouTube, MySpace and by all means, join a Meetup group near you!

You won't be sorry you took the time to learn about this man. I'm 45 years old, and for the first time, I am backing someone 100%!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tom Felts, Nashvill, Tennessee — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:57:48 GMT

Ron Paul was recently regarded as the most fiscally responsible candidate for the presidency by Grover Norquist of Americans for Tax Reform on the Tom DeSalba show. Thank you MSNBC for giving Paul a minute of the spotlight!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Ryan, Minneapolis, MN — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:58:53 GMT

Ron Paul has given me hope for our country. If you talk to people from other countries and ask them what they think of the USA, they basically hate our government. It's time to send our government and the world a clear message from the American people that we want to change that. The best thing you can do for your country, in my opinion, is vote for Ron Paul. Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton... it will just be the same. If you love your country, please educate yourself about this man and make an informed decision not based upon conglomerate media information. His voting record speaks for itself.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Carolyn Connor, York, PA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:03:53 GMT

The income tax was born in 1913. Our country did very well before 1913. Think about it.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Scott M, Grand Rapids, MI — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:37:22 GMT

If Ron Paul is an anti-semite, why does the ADL "salute him?" It's time to shut this noise down, now! If you are going to attack him, at least do it with honesty. You are complete scum to make things up about such a fine American.

http://antidefamationleague.us/salute_to_ron_paul.pdf

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Steve Dasbach — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:40:48 GMT

Congress declared war on Japan after Pearl Harbor. Germany declared war on us immediately thereafter.

Dr. Paul has stated repeatedly that when the country is attacked, Congress should declare war and the President should win that war as rapidly as possible.

Therefore, Dr. Paul would have fought WWII.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Joseph, Concord, NH — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 06:12:47 GMT

I am constantly disappointed by the number of people who decide not to vote for someone just because they're not polling high or don't consider them a big enough "threat" to contend. Where is your personal integrity? Where is your self worth? Do you not understand that your vote is the only real voice you have in this country? Have a little pride and stand up for someone or something you believe in. If you don't, then you are just a pawn. You HAVE wasted your vote.

Do you remember that our forefathers fought for our independence to escape the tyranny of big government? The Constitution and the Bill of Rights were created so that the government would work for us, not the other way around. Over the last 80 years or so, our government has managed to fool the American public that we need to keep giving them money to make our lives "better". Why else would we willingly give 25% of OUR hard earned money without questioning it?

Year after year people complain about politicians, government, lobbyists, taxes, corruption - yet the same people keep voting for the same big government politicians year after year just because they're popular. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results, yet that's exactly what people do every election. Why? Just because their candidate is popular? How do you ever expect things to change???

Our government is so full of waste, corruption, and greed. It no longer works for us, we work for it. And what do we get in return? More regulation, more bureacracy, more waste, and a smaller paycheck. Our government is the worst run business in the world and nothing will change that because they have no incentive to improve. They are a monopoly and they have zero accountability. The only way we as Americans can hold our government accountable is through elections.

I believe Ron Paul is our only hope to shake things up and make some real changes to government. An honest and decent "politician" (I almost hate to use that word) doesn't come along very often and probably won't for many years to come, because the money and the two party system won't allow it. But he has managed to defy the odds and broken through some very difficult barriers. This is your opportunity to make a difference! You may not get another one.

Come election day, win or lose, I will have the pride in knowing that my vote stood for something I believe in. How about you?

A peek at Ron Paul's support

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 07:29:32 GMT

"he's not an isolationist at all. He just doesn't think we should be on the offensive and try to spread our way of life to countries who did not invite us there.

He supports alliances and free trade with all. He just doesnt feel we should force our way of life on other nations through the use of force."

Well Said...I do not think we need to go to war with people in order to build pipelines/democracy.

He still wants to be a humanitarian...we just don't need to go police their state in order to establish democracy/Oil Supply.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Alex — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 07:54:10 GMT

I am so happy that Ron Paul decided to run for this office. I'm even more happy that his popularity keeps on growing. Peace, tax cuts, and following the Constitution in 2008!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

John Doe — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 08:31:00 GMT

"Ron Paul not only advocates the kind of government I believe in, but he also has the 20 year voting record to prove that he sticks by the principles he advocates."

Yes!!! That's why I'm Voting for him. INTEGRITY. I'm quite cynical when it comes to political rhetoric these days...but, like with every good Doctor...I tell him to "Give it to me strait doc." I have faith that Dr. Paul will do just that.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Victoria Warrior, Los Angeles, California — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 08:36:01 GMT

Ron Paul is the only candidate worthy of the position and the title. Ron Paul has more integrity in his baby finger than all the other candidates put together. (Both parties). They have violated their oaths and are nothing but corporate whores. (Both parties).

Ron Paul is the only ethical candidate. Ron Paul is the only logical choice.

We have to be the media now. It's up to us. And we're Americans! We are resilient and creative and we can move mountains. Let's do it!

V

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tom — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 08:49:30 GMT

I love America, Ron Paul, RP Supporters. What I really love is how informed/intelligent the revolution is. I like reading what the paulites have to say...becuase I will likely learn something I previously didn't know.

What makes me mad though...is the notion that Ron Paul Supporters also wear Tin-Foil Hats.

It's that type of polarization that makes no sense.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

SteveB, Columbus, OH — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:09:20 GMT

Regarding the income tax, it does noting more than pay the interest on the national debt. Look up the Grace comission report circa 1983 ,1984

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Joe, New York — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:15:34 GMT

Ron Paul is the only Republican for whom I would even consider voting. The others support Big Government.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Fabio Bossi, Munich, Germany — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:38:28 GMT

Please Americans, vote Ron Paul for President!
The other posters are absolutely right. We haven`t turned "anti-americans" in Europe for example. We are just "anti-an-interventionist-bunch-of-crooks".

"Freedom is the answer" would be a fantastic lesson the world could learn from the US.

Best wishes from Old Europe (Germany)

FB
http://bavaria-for-ron-paul.blogspot.com/

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Mike, Birmingham AL — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:43:08 GMT

Ron Paul is NOT an isolationist. He wants to trade with other countries instead of going to war and building military bases around the world. If we listen to what Ron Paul is saying, we as Americans can become more wealthy, more free to do as we wish, and not have to send our loved ones to die in a 3rd world country. Please take time to do research on Ron Paul. He will not disappoint you!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Dwight Johnson, Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:48:23 GMT

Poor Carrie. You have obviously been frightened by the lies that all the other candidates, both Republican and Democratic (and their pliant media), have been feeding us for the last few years. Their message: we must be afraid, very afraid. Ron Paul does not tell us to be afraid, he tells us to be courageous. He wants to deal with the real enemies, al Qaeda, not the false enemies, in that vaguest of wars, the War on Terror. Don't you realize that people in the federal government love war because it is the easiest way for them to expand their power over us, of chipping away at our freedoms? Carrie, take courage. We can defeat any enemy that is out there. And it doesn't take an imperial army, based in over 120 countries around the world (a complete waste of money). And it doesn't take the world's biggest bureaucracy, the Department of Homeland Security, to protect us. A true American patriot thinks "minuteman", as in the brave forces that won our War of Independence, and not the Death Star, the vision of every presidential candidate other than Ron Paul.
As for paying the interest, that will be done by reducing other expenses, particularly our ill-advised misadventures in Iraq, and our spread out military presence throughout the world. And if you think that our healthcare system needs help (for example), take some of the thousands of dollars that would have gone to income taxes, and give it to someone you know who cannot afford health insurance. Bureaucracies cannot love. You have to do that yourself.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Kyle Sanders from Salem Oregon - Vets for Ron Paul — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:48:40 GMT

Carrie from Eastern Iowa-
You seem extremely well-spoken and informed for someone claiming to be merely, 'a typical voter'. If you know so much about the specific history of recent politics and care so much about the spending habits of our leaders, why do you play dumb by commenting on this board with contrived questions when you know you can obviously use Google to find the answers?

What is your intention?

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Mark , FL — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:04:59 GMT

Vote and support RON PAUL !!!!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Ryan, New Lenox, IL — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:19:26 GMT

Andrew ,NJ hit the nail right on the head for me. I am 24 years old. Having been raised knowing that politicians are mostly dishonest, I never voted. This has changed since I heard Ron Paul's message.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Proud American, Florida — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:24:32 GMT

Thank you for the positive article. But 50 people standing in a room that don't know each other seems to me to be an "organization". All these meetups just started and they draw more people then the local Dems or Reps. meetings. And this is happening ALL ACROSS the United States. So if you haven't joined a Meetup group, do it know or you may miss being a part of histroy.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jennifer, Trenton, NJ — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:43:24 GMT

Dr. Paul is so inspiring that I have joined meetup groups, and even changed my party affiliation to Republican, so I can vote for him in the primaries. The polls are not accurate - look it up - they keep leaving him off. There's a lot more support than is being shown. The Republican party is nervous to have someone that is speaking TRUTH and not continuing to pull the wool over everyone's eyes. This is the start to reuniting America and getting our freedom back. www.ronpaul2008.com

A peek at Ron Paul's support

goldenequity, Arizona — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:50:16 GMT

Who IS Ron Paul?
Why would he get this much support?

Do your OWN homework.

NOBODY explains Ron Paul
BETTER than Ron Paul himself!

Here is an interactive audio archive of
Ron Paul speeches and interviews as a resource in chronological
order.

http://www.ronpaulaudio.com

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Dan — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:52:18 GMT

@Carrie, Eastern Iowa

Ok, I have some concerns.

"I hope all the people who have been begging for coverage of Ron Paul are taking note of this article. Personally, I don't have a whole lot of faith in anyone that promises to abolish personal income tax. I suppose if I really cared, I would look into that..........I am probably more like the average voter than the avid political junkie."

That is confusing at best. You post a note of caution to anyone thinking of supporting this candidate, yet you know absolutely nothing about him and apparently don't care to know anything about him. Also, if you don't care, why would you be posting comments on a Ron Paul article? You were the second or third post on this article, which is pretty amazing considering the amount of people searching for Ron Paul media coverage just about every second of the day. If you call yourself an average voter and not an avid political junkie, why would you be trying to convince other people to "take note" and "don't have a lot of faith" about something you claim to have no knowledge of or care about at all? Seems strange to me.

"I am prefacing this by saying that I have not had time to look at all the websites that have been suggested, so don't jump down my throat."

Huh? Let me guess, you're going to follow that up with some pretty loaded questions with a sort of accusing tone thrown in just for kicks, right?

"And finally, as far as the income tax being used to pay our national debt - how do you propose we pay without it? Or should we just not pay it? That seems incredibly irresponsible to me, so I certainly hope no one is suggesting we ignore those who have lent us enormous sums of money over the years."

....yup

"In case you haven't noticed, I'm not much into the economic side of politics; most of this stuff goes way over my head"

Then why did you proceed to ask three economic questions that you already knew would most likely be over your head anyway? And why would you try to persuade anyone else to be cautious of Ron Paul for economic reasons, of which you claim to not understand?

Interestingly, all of the information you asked for is readily available on teh internets. You know, that enormous cache of free information anytime, mostly anywhere you want it? Hmmmm, it seems to me that you found your way to this article, so you apparently can navigate the web. With the amount of time it took you to write your post, you could have found all of the information you were looking for. But I imagine that since you don't care enough about that information, but are still posting questions with disclaimers about how you are too lazy to find out for yourself, that you won't mind if I direct you to previous posts on this page which include everything you could ever want to know about Ron Paul, or even to the little known and rarely used google for all your informational purposes and needs.

...but in the spirit of your posts, I really don't care about anything that I just wrote. However, it's the most important thing I have ever done. But who cares anyway right? It could change your life, but it shouldn't affect you in any way.

DON'T VOTE NOT FOR RON PAUL!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Nick, Clifton Park, NY — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:06:01 GMT

Carrie, regarding your second post;

In the 1980's, the income tax only went to pay the interest on the national debt. Since then some of the income tax revenue has been assigned to other things, federal agencies with excessive budgets have been created in recent years (Homeland Security? That's what the Dept of Defense is SUPPOSED to do, not go overseas unless DIRECTLY attacked - Iraq had nothing to do with 9/11, Ron Paul supported action against the Taliban and al Qaeda in Afghanistan so he's got the right mindset for defending America). The President doesn't need Congressional approval to eliminate departments like those that operate within the Executive branch. They cost hundreds of billions of dollars and we don't need them.

The War on Terror should just be a war against our attackers, not a global battle against Islamic extremists. They will be isolated from their supporters if their supporters get jobs as part of the global economy that would flourish ten fold because we stopped interfering with it at a military level, but simply bought and sold goods and services like we should be doing.

There are numerous ways to pay off the national debt without defaulting on it. The government owns a tremendous amount of assests we could sell to private industry - land, fleet vehicles for all those agencies we don't need, salaries for the bureaucrats we don't need. We could keep non-income taxation (excise and corporate taxes among others) at current levels for just 2-3 years and the surplus would pay the debt off in a very short time. That is a simplified version but a few other items and we're in the black before you know it. The economy would sky rocket if we all had the money in our pockets that we pay in income tax every year. We could use it to buy health insurance, a newer car or house, tourism, whatever YOU want to do with it. It's YOURS! They just make it seem like it wasn't yours because they take it from you before you get your paycheck.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

David W — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:16:26 GMT

There is a scene on The West Wing where the character Joshua Lyman is persuaded to go to New Hampshire to listen to an outsider candidate Jeb Bartlett. After Josh watches the speech, he is rejuvenated.

I think that scene is a stunning commentary on our current political state. Every politician who runs for office is afraid of losing -- therefore, they never say anything that might polling badly. This is what is wrong with American politics. This is why our country and our government has spiraled into the debacle that it is.

I listen to Ron Paul and I am enthused about the possibility of returning America to the principles that founded this country. Dr. Paul gives me hope that things can get better -- no other politician can do that.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Dan, TN — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:18:17 GMT

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Sunshinysmile, Winston Salem, NC — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:22:17 GMT

Thanks MSNBC for covering Ron Paul.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:35:25 GMT

Kyle - I don't play dumb...ever. I made a comment about Ron Paul, to which others responded. I then asked questions of those who responded, to clarify their responses. This is called a discussion. If you notice, until you stuck your nose into it, it was without insult. I suggest you remove your nose from it so we can go back to having a friendly discussion on these issues. Have a nice day. :)

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bill Rummel (Charleston Voice) — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:40:34 GMT

I am a 64-year old retiree who although a Conservative for decades have never participated in a political campaign before. But, with this Ron Paul thing I have never in all my lifetime seen such enthusiasm from such a WELL INFORMED group of youngsters. I am very encouraged. There is no other genuine Conservative in the pipleine behind Ron Paul.

Win, lose, or draw, freedom for America will be restored. You old whining, disgruntled, whining codgers better get a grip on this renewed activity for freedom. It's REAL!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:49:54 GMT

Dan - I didn't realize that one is required to have a Ron Paul bumper sticker to read a Ron Paul article. So sorry, let me rush out and buy mine right now.

I have been reading and commenting on First Read for about a year now; I'm not interested in only reading about one candidate or one issue and I have found that First Read offers a variety of political news. It took me no time to find the article, and very little time to write either of my posts. This is because I am not an idiot, a fact which seems to have escaped you.

You are splicing up my comments. I never said that I was not an avid political junkie. I said I don't closely follow economic policy, and in that respect I am probably more like the average voter than an avid political junkie. There is a very big difference in those statements. I love politics. I follow it closely. I have a degree in it. I do not, however, love economics. I generally find economic policy boring and uninspiring, ergo I tend to not pay much attention to it. I'm entitled to my preferences, and simply because I notice less about economic policy than I do about social policy or foreign policy does not mean that I am incapable of understanding it when it is explained to me.

I also did not caution anyone else. I stated that I personally am wary of a candidate that makes a promise to abolish the income tax. I'm wary of any candidates that make sweeping promises that are attractive to voters. Call me cynical, but my gut instinct is generally that such promises are made to attract attention and votes, a la Bush and the "read my lips" fiasco.

Now, you have taken up more than enough of my time, and certainly more than that rude response to honest questions deserved. Have you met Kyle? You seem like two peas in a pod.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:51:44 GMT

Nick and others - Thank you for such thoughtful responses. I appreciate the information. :)

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Rich, Austin, Texas — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:54:24 GMT

My wife and I have followed and/or supported Ron Paul for over a decade (he's the only politician, and I hate to call him that, to whom we have ever donated more than $100 for a re-election campaign).
When have you EVER heard any other candidate, or the MSM, tell the truth about the Income Tax or the Federal Reserve, two of the biggest scams ever foisted on an entire nation?!
Ron Paul has been trying to restore the Constitution for over a decade. Demand that your Senators and Congressmen get with the program!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Lee Lafferty, Live from the Bluegrass — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:07:59 GMT

"I know absolutely nothing about Ron Paul. What's he stand for? What's he stand against? Is he just another chimp from Texas? What's his deal? Anybody heard of this guy? "
Jim, Washington, D.C. (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 4:04 PM)

"I hope all the people who have been begging for coverage of Ron Paul are taking note of this article. Personally, I don't have a whole lot of faith in anyone that promises to abolish personal income tax. Where exactly are we going to get the money to run the federal government? I suppose if I really cared, I would look into that. But sadly, I am not yet convinced that he will be a legitimate threat in the primary season, let alone the general election. "
Carrie, Eastern Iowa (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 4:07 PM)

First, realize that...
"Those who are not interested in politics will be forever ruled by those who are."
~ G. Edward Griffith, Freedom Force International

Then, start your socio-economic-political education with...

History of national banks in the US
http://ronpaulaudio.com/rpaudio/TheMoneyMasters.wvx

Grace Commission report to President Reagan
http://www.uhuh.com/taxstuff/gracecom.htm

The prime point being...
"... 100 percent of what is collected is absorbed solely by interest on the Federal debt and by Federal Government contributions to transfer payments. In other words, all individual income tax revenues are gone before one nickel is spent on the services which taxpayers expect from their Government."

Introduce yourself to FFI, learn the difference between 'collectivism' vs. 'individualism'.
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-6081639633877989595

Soon you will see that the labels of republican, democrat, conservative, liberal, et al, poorly represent what's afoot in the world. The collectivist play all sides against each other for their own ends which never coincide with the individual's. Inherent within the rule of the Constitution is the idea of the right to be left alone; that the state exists to protect the rights and privacy of individuals and that the state has no rights, much less the right of secrecy and would not exist apart of the citizenry who grant it limited rule. The right to be left alone applies to We The People as well as our national neighbors by the government that is supposed to represent us.

Many, many people are registering as Republican, not because it's suddenly cool, but because that just happens to be what it takes to vote for Ron Paul in the primaries in about half the states. Many people are seeing beyond the labels and are merely using it as an expedient for themselves to vote for the man, not the party.

Yeah, after the last 100 years of collectivist creep into our lives, values, and wallets wanting to take our life, liberty, and rights back as the charter intended might seem 'crazy' or 'wacko', especially when we are on the verge of totally losing what the Constitution enshrined.

Here's a scenario I like...
The President's First Day in Office
http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=13247

Carrie, do you know enough yet to want to get to Ames on August 11 and vote in a straw poll?

LL

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Steve James — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:14:03 GMT

Thank you MSNBC for covering Ron Paul. I wish others in the MSM would follow your lead. A well done article where you are reporting the news, not reading someone's press release and calling it news.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Dan — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:16:46 GMT

Carrie,

You're right and I do apologize for my tone. I am a Paul supporter and I do see a lot of commenters that throw stuff out there just to confuse or discourage would be supporters. If you are truly interested, I would most certainly help you find whatever information you are curious about. I would hate to tarnish the Ron Paul campaign to even one possible supporter. I just thought you were being intentionally confusing and that kind of stuff irks me. No hard feelings?

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Grant, West Chester, PA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:26:20 GMT

Maybe people are starting to see through the facade of our two party system; that what we have is really just a one party system with two complicit factions and some contrived choices to keep us distracted from the fact that no matter who we vote for, nothing really changes.

After years of both liberals and conservatives being disappointed and disillusioned with Washington, perhaps we are all converging on the conclusion that the only good government is a limited government.

You may not agree with everything Ron Paul says, but at least he stands for real change and a return to our founding principles of individual freedom and individual responsibility.

What was that definition of insanity? Oh, yes: doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result.

Be brave. Do something different. The world will not end, I promise. It's the only way to instigate meaningful change in this country. Stop looking at the choices presented to you by the mainstream media as if they were the only alternatives. Stop thinking inside the box - inside their box. We - the people - can do it. We don't need permission from our senator or an approved permit from the Department of We Know What's Best For You.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

NH — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:30:28 GMT

WE have an excellent boots on the ground campaign here in NH and it's working out fine. Ron is no pacifist and feels we should have strong defense and go after anyone who attacks us.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

NH — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:30:33 GMT

WE have an excellent boots on the ground campaign here in NH and it's working out fine. Ron is no pacifist and feels we should have strong defense and go after anyone who attacks us.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

NH — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:30:44 GMT

WE have an excellent boots on the ground campaign here in NH and it's working out fine. Ron is no pacifist and feels we should have strong defense and go after anyone who attacks us.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Skip — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:42:34 GMT

I'm the exact opposite of a George W Bush fan. I swore that I'd never consider a republican candidate again, and than a friend convinced be to give Ron Paul a chance. I have heard Hillay say things like "the country needs to change its direction" I have also heard Obama make similar statements. I was concidering giving Obama my support, that was until I heard Ron Paul speak. Unlike the other candidates Ron Paul answers questions with substance. I can't remember the last time that I've heard a politician speak, and not sound like he is scripted. Ron Paul wants to end the war immediately, and has a consistant voting record to prove it. He wants to repeal the patriot act, and end the IRS. Seems like the other choices want to fallow in Bush's footsteps.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Nick, Clifton Park, NY — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:26:11 GMT

I understand where Dan is coming from. There are moles out there, that's how threatening the Ron Paul Revolution is to the Big Government types. Hopefully, between the explanations about tax policy many of us have offered as well as Dan's apology, Carrie considers Dr. Paul and what he can do for this country. (I find economics mainly boring too but I know I want to keep my hard-earned money for my family, or my charities, or my retirement.) And even if he doesn't win, we shouldn't give up the fight. Ron Paul is really a libertarian (look up the term, or classic liberalism) and the Libertarian Party fields candidates for all different offices around the country. The message is close to the same, depending on the candidate, of course. There is hope. This is just the beginning. LP.org is a good place for the disenfranchised to find a political home. I did in 2004 when my choices were Bush and Kerry. Ugh.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Marcus, Denver, Colorado — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:35:36 GMT

It is time for us reassess our endless commitments, made within the framework of an interventionist foreign policy. The grandiose and unrealistic plans for policing the world will eventually collide with limits imposed by reality. Our commitments seem endless. It’s estimated we have over 700 bases around world, in 130 different countries. Intervention creates endless commitments and ongoing unintended consequences that obligate our military and even future generations to fight wars without the slightest involvement by Congress. Our bellicose approach encourages protectionism. Our government preaches free trade and commerce, yet condemns those who want any restraints on the use of our military worldwide. We refuse to see how isolated we have become. Our loyal allies are few, and while the UN does our bidding only when we buy the votes we need, our enemies multiply. A policy of strategic independence is far better than international entanglements. UN mandates, backed by American troops and money ironically lead to neo-isolationism. Those who advocate the traditional American policy of nonintervention are ridiculed as “isolationists” by the authoritarians who want the U.S. to decide all disputes. Yet it’s their interventionist’s policies, especially in the last six years, which have isolated us, reduced our allies, and increased our enemies. We are more ostracized and isolated in the world than ever before.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

A Duhon — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:53:00 GMT

I think this nation will be in serious trouble unless Ron Paul is elected President.

Either way, our economy is about to crash hardcore along with the Dollar. He is the only person who can be honest and guide us through it.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:55:03 GMT

Dan and Lee - Sorry to disappoint you, but I am a registered Democrat. However intrigued by Ron Paul that I may be, I can't vote for him until the general election unless I am willing to register as a Republican and that is not going to happen as long as their platform refuses me the right to choose what do with my body. I'll vote for Republicans that I find acceptable (and I have, on many occasions), but I will never register as a Republican.

But you have inspired me to find out more about him. The one thing I have read in all of this that I absolutely do not like is that he has never voted for federal gun restrictions. Considering I am very pro gun control, I find that pretty disturbing. Does he believe that this is an issue for the states to decide? If so, I'm not sure I agree with that.

I'm also not sure I agree with the whole returning power to the states stuff. To some extent, its a good idea. However, the downside to this is that there are poor states that will, without federal assistance, get poorer and poorer. Unfortunately, some states lack the resources necessary to see to the safety and welfare of their people. And by welfare, I don't mean the entitlement program. I mean schools, hospitals, roads, etc.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Dee Ann Guzman, Stratford, OK — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:16:12 GMT

Good comments here. I am voting for Ron Paul because I believe that he could lead the way to saving America from approaching tyranny. Note, I did not say that he could save America. That is up to each and every one of us. I think Americans have identified the problem, and now it is time for us all to band together and solve the problem of our encroaching and out of control government. Ron Paul will willingly lead us into a future of freedom and prosperity. I have been watching his career for years, and he is worthy of America's trust. Perhaps the most worthy of any man in recent history. God Bless Ron Paul and God Bless America!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

gabriel, tempe, az — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:36:28 GMT

I admire Dr. Paul so much because he is a Statesman, not a politician--like all those other candidates who try to act like economists or theologians or sociologists or whatever just to get votes. Makes me sick. All I want to hear from my representative is a promise that he (or she) is going to protect my Constitutional (read: Natural) rights and that is it!

"Good intentions will always be pleaded for every assumption of authority. It is hardly too strong to say that the Constitution was made to guard the people against the dangers of good intentions. There are men in all ages who mean to govern well, but they mean to govern. They promise to be good masters, but they mean to be masters." ---Daniel Webster

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Mark, Atlanta GA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:38:27 GMT

Re: Ron Paul and Neal Boortz

Basicly Boortz doesn't like Ron Paul because Boortz feels Ron Paul wouldn't be aggressive enough against those evil Muslims. Basicly Boortz has gone off the deep end because he's afraid of his own shadow and scared of teh terrorist boogey man hiding in all the shadows around him.

At this point, Boortz, the former libertarian, has yet to see a law he didn't like if it makes him 'safer'... no matter what cost to a persons rights. Incredibly frustrating as I truly expected better from Boortz.

Boortz is too busy being the lap dog of the neo-cons to have a coherent thought right now. He refuses to point out the crazed excesses of the Republican establishment, refuses to go after the republicans on abortion and their continued effort to restrict individual freedoms, He keeps curiously silent about all those topics, all the while hammering the Democrats on whatever phantom menace he can conjure up to show how dangerous the Democrats are.

Yes, I listen to Boortz about 10 - 15 minutes a week, just to see if maybe, just maybe, he'll return back to the host that I enjoyed listening to many years ago... Back when he wasn't afraid

A peek at Ron Paul's support

daniel, california — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:45:58 GMT

Interesting how the supporters are only 20-something...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nwZGRrqhfs
http://www.gopstrawpolls.com/pollresults.php

look at the GOP debates and look at the polls from those.

look at the rallys on youtube where you see litterally thousands of people

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Marie, San Jose, CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:48:03 GMT

80% of your income tax goes to paying interest on loans the governement borrowed from the Federal Reserve. (By the way, the Federal Reserve is not a Federal Agency - it is a privately owned entity owned and run by the large banks like Citicorp - I was shocked when my econ professor taught me this.)Eliminate the debt and cut spending and we don't need an individual income tax (Corporations would still be required to pay income taxes - just not individuals). Please investigate if you want to know more. It's pretty easy to find this info on-line or in books such as Creature From Jekyll Island, pub 6/02. I was an economics major AND an ex-IRS agent and I KNOW we can do without the income tax. It may help to know that public education and law enforcement is almost entirely funded through your local taxes, like property taxes.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Corey, Minneapolis, Minnesota — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:01:40 GMT

If you want to keep spreading the good message of Dr. Paul, hand out some Liberty Cards, which are available at LibertyCard . org

Thanks!!!! GO RON PAUL!

Corey

A peek at Ron Paul's support

John Smith, Seattle Washington — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:05:48 GMT

To learn more about Ron Paul:
RonPaul2008.com
RonPaulLibrary.org
www.mises.org -where he gets his economic philosophy from.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

James M. Ray, Melbourne, FL — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:11:20 GMT

Might the fact that you know nothing about Ron Paul be the result of massive news media bias against libertarians? (I sure think so...)
JMR

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Brian, Washington, DC — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:20:59 GMT

Carrie, Eastern Iowa -

You asked some really good questions and you partially answered them as well. You are saying "In 2000, there was no War on Terror. There was no invasion into Iraq. There was no Department of Homeland Security, for that matter. We live in a different world than we did then - a more costly world, largely due to Bush's policies."

That is the answer as well... If there was no more of the things you listed and no more IRS, Department of Education (that educates noone) et cetera... then we would have plenty of money for our debts plus they would not increase every year like they do now.

That is if everything stays status quo. Most likely, when you take the shackles off the people and thier money they will invest and spend all the money that used to go to the goverment. That money will become sales tax revenue and corporate profits that will also be taxed. The goverment will stay out of your bank account and April 15th will be as much a day of independence as July 4th.

Go Dr. Paul!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Cam, Vancovuer, WA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:29:11 GMT

"I hope all the people who have been begging for coverage of Ron Paul are taking note of this article. Personally, I don't have a whole lot of faith in anyone that promises to abolish personal income tax. Where exactly are we going to get the money to run the federal government?"
Carrie from Eastern Iowa ( several posts ahead)

What you get from the Ron Paul campaign is an education. What if you found that zero % of the money paid in income taxes is used to run the gov't? It is all used to pay interest on the federal debt which goes to pay the bankers who control the Federal Reserve who have total control over out monetary system.

May I offer you Aaron Russo's "America From Freedom to Fascism" for your free viewing? http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-1656880303867390173

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Albert Meyer, Plano, TX — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:32:30 GMT

Integrity has name and it is: RON PAUL. Ron Paul is the people's candidate. It is impossible not to love the man, although he always stresses that his message, not his person drives the campaign. This is the first time in decades, if not centuries, where the electorate have a true representative who cares about their interests,rather that of the political elite. We live in very exciting times.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Joe, Branchburg, NJ — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:01:04 GMT

Just look at the diversity of geography in all of these comments for Ron Paul. This thing is real and it has only just begun. It will explode!! Ron Paul 2008!!! We are real and we are all over the place. We are sick and tired of the theft and the murder and the tyranny. We want our heritage back!! We want our country back!! Ron Paul Revolution Now!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

AdamLow — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:15:30 GMT

For people asking how are we going to fund the government if we get rid of the income tax, I ask you one question.

How did they do it before 1913? ;)

Yes it would be a much smaller government, and that would be fantastic. You can't do anything nowadays without the governments permission and I am sick and tired of it.

For anyone that wants the South's view on him, well his own Conservative District in Texas has elected him 10 years in a row on the Republican ticket. It makes no sense to say that he is not Republican. Not that it even matters, look at the issues. It is not left or right. It is right or wrong. Congressman Paul obeys the Constitution.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bob W. — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:17:19 GMT

Ron Paul is the only candidate worth voting for...period! He only speaks the truth and this country hasn't seen that in 200 years. People, please vote for him as it may be our last chance to save our country. I tell everyone I know and see to at least look at him....and not through these jokesters on the boob tube as they have an ajenda.

Bob, Florida

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Chris, Hastings, Minnesota — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:19:21 GMT

RON PAUL REVOLUTION!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Sean, Melbourne, Florida — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:26:21 GMT

With respect to the "income tax", you'll actually find that most Americans didn't file or pay until the mid-1940s, when the "Victory Tax" was enacted. The original tax on "income" in 1913 (when the 16th was supposedly ratified - See Bill Benson's "The Law that Never Was") was about "passive income" or the profit made on investments, a way to make the "idle rich" pay something for the benefits of an organized social system. Reading the congressional record from that time period, it is clear that the "income tax" was never to be imposed on the pay received from labor (gross receipts) of the average working man/woman.

The reason we have a "national debt" today is because we have a private banking system at the core of our currency and when the government wants money, they borrow it from the private bankers who charge interest on our own money. As there is no gold or silver backing this fiat currency, there is no real cost yet we (the people) somehow owe a "debt". BTW - the Fed doesn't bear the cost of printing the money, that's another cost we the people bear, they just get a slice of our lives for every "dollar" that's printed. The Federal Reserve System isn't "federal", there is no "reserve" but it sure is a great "system" for those that are a part of it.

Doctor Paul is the last, best chance to restore the constitutional republic that our founding fathers started some centuries ago.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Valerie, Washington, The Evergreen State — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:26:48 GMT

Thank you for publishing an article that opens the debate on Ron Paul and his positions on some of the issues that matter to the people.
Thanks also to the brave and courageous supporters who are setting the records straight on Congressman Paul and answering legitimate questions honestly for those who want to know.
Citizens owe it to themselves and America to do their homework on ALL of the candidates this election, it is true we finally have a viable and choice candidate in Congressman Paul who unites by putting Country over Party. Call him a Libertarian if you want, but he has been elected as a Republican Congressman 10 times now. Obviously, the contituents of the 14th district of Texas believe in him.
I am voting for Ron Paul, because I would rather not be 'assimilated'.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

cee cee los angeles ca — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:27:44 GMT

Personal income taxes do not fund the government, they fund the IRS, and according to various studies represent only 30-35% of our national income). Without big all-intrusive Federal Government departments, our country does not have such high operating costs. Anyone my age remembers that corporations used to pay high tax rates and individuals paid almost nothing in taxes. Guess who managed to get that turned around, slowly and quietly? Those same folks who get to deduct their EPA fines for polluting, and that we the taxpayers get to subsidize. Ron Paul is REASON not pac and big biz connections.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

C. Rakish Spagaletto — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:27:45 GMT

Corporations are the puppet master

All the other candidates are puppets on a string

Ron Paul -- no strings attached

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Robert — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:29:30 GMT

as far as international politics go, it is directly tied to the federal reserve dollar. after wwII, we purposefully created tariffs to produce a trade deficit. This imported foreign goods and exported dollars. This was to stabilize currency and rebuild economies abroad. This money was redeemable for gold...until 1973, when we pretty much said "Sorry, we don't have it". To keep the dollar from becoming worthless, it had to be exchangeable for some other asset.

That asset was oil. Through dictatorial alliance, CIA secret warfare, and public US warfare, we have kept OPEC and most oil markets exclusively trading oil for dollars. Anytime an oil producing nation decides to abandon the dollar, it is attacked. Hussein switched to the Euro in 2002. Chavez has been fighting the US for years and is finally in a position to do so. And Iran is currently doing it.

The reason most of the UN is supporting action against Iran is because their "petro"-dollars would become completely worthless if they were allowed to peacefully switch off the dollar, and develop the ability to defend themselves. China would be real pissed if we pay them back in dollars that can only buy American-produced goods when they run such an enormous trade deficit.

If taken off oil, all the excess dollars abroad would eventually start pouring back into our country. While this would seem like our economy is growing, the increased currency would eventually create massive inflation. When foreign dollars have all been spent, foreign interest in our products would collapse. Eventually, a complete crash would follow.

So, in conclusion, there's a reason we're over there fighting, that has nothing to do with terrorism and ridding the world of cruel dictators. It has to do with propping up the FED's printing press, which gives them more wealth than can be credibly calculated by any institution. We can argue that they are taking a small cut, but in reality, the wealth they literally take from most of the world by inflating the monetary supply, cannot be measured. Judging by the severe collusion of big business and government to support the FED, I assume they are taking a lot from us, while risking all of our financial futures.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Todd O, Sugar Land, Texas — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:29:43 GMT

Carrie from E IA -

I too am pro-choice, but Dr. Paul's position is palatable to me. Let the states decide and enforce laws on murder, including when the life of a citizen begins and/or ends. The federal government is having a tough time on handling immigration, passports and so on. We want to trust them with murder laws too?

Additional gun control is anithetical to the second amendment and to personal liberty. Even if you think the potential benefit outweighs the harm of this infringement of rights, are we going to cede this responsibility to federal authorities?

Finally it is not the responsibility of the federal government to ensure economic equity amongst the states.

Todd (born in Davenport) in Texas

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Randy, Austin TX — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:34:06 GMT

Completely eliminating the income tax would reduce the federal revenue available to the size available to the first Clinton administration. Does anybody think that was too small?

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Mark, Missouri — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:40:30 GMT

The single largest problem of this nation is not the War on Terror. It is not immigration. It is not health care. It is not the color or lack of Paris Hilton's panties. It is not any of the issues paraded in front of us nightly on the established media.

Our single LARGEST issue is monetary reform!

As a nation our elected leaders go semi private corporation and borrow funds.

That borrowing has interest charges associated with it.

The total sum of your Federal Income Taxes go to pay the PART of the interest on this debt.

Your Federal Income Taxes do not to support your government nor any of the infrastructure it provides for you.

Wait a second?!! Our constitution gave the power to create money to congress! Why pay interest to a private corporation when we do not have to?

By borrowing money from a privately owned central bank, our government can avoid going to the people for funding.

In short, the government took out a credit card in your name. They spend all they want WITHOUT your knowledge or permission and you have to pay.

Why can't the government balance the budget? They don't have to! They have your credit card in hand!

It's hard for you to convince me to diet, when I use your credit card to order dinner. See my point?

If the government can issue a dollar bond, it can issue a dollar bill. The difference between the two are one bears interest, the other does not.

Ron Paul is the only candidate that is willing to face this most serious of problems.

All of the other candidates, and I do mean ALL of them want to continue the never-ending spending spree that has run up $29,432.11 in debt in YOUR name.

That is $29,432.11 for every man, woman, and child in this country. Check it out for yourself.

http://www.brillig.com/debt_clock/

But there is a solution. Ron Paul knows what it is.

http://www.house.gov/paul/press/press2003/pr073103.htm

Do not trust any organization to GIVE you your opinion!

Read, Educate yourself, Be responsible. VOTE!

Thank you for your time. Sincerely

Mark

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Charles Mendoza, Boca Raton, Florida — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:57:46 GMT

As far as I know there are no or very few chimps in Texas, at least roaming free. There's one in Washington for sure, except when he does vacation in Texas to get away from the messes he's creating at the capital. He should not be confused with Ron Paul who comes across as a straight shootin' Texan. He'll restore that state's reputation. I trust him more than any other politician (though Mike Gravel has impressed me and runs a close second). Ron Paul is one of the very few honest politicians. An Avis Rarus, a rare bird for a politician, he isn't feeding at the trough. He's got my vote for sure. The more I hear him, the more I like him.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Don — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:05:53 GMT

Congressman Ron Paul seeks to radically disengage the U.S. from the world at large. He seeks to withdraw from NATO, the nation's multilateral and bilateral trade arrangements, and terminate its security commitments to such countries as South Korea. The last time the U.S. took such a detached approach was in the years leading up to World War II under the naive assumption that non-interventionism would bring security. The outcome was a catastrophic failure.

That historic lesson should not be ignored. What the U.S. really needs is a coherent foreign policy strategy based on its critical interests at home and abroad. Such a policy should leverage the synergistic relationship between foreign assistance, hard power, and diplomacy.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

scott orlando florida — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:08:58 GMT

Im sure its been mentioned, but the federal government makes money in other ways outside of the income tax. In fact if you take away the incometax from the 2007 amount of money made you would have the same amount that was made in 2000. RP believes we could cut our budget back to 2000 and be just fine.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:26:10 GMT

Brian - I was able to go to college and law school because of loans I took out largely from the Department of Education, so I beg to differ with your assessment that it educates no one.

Todd - Whether Ron Paul is pro life or pro choice is not the issue. The point I was making was that the Republican platform is still adamantly pro life. I will not register to be a member of a pro life party - period. Ergo, I will not be able to caucus for Paul.

I disagree with your assessment of gun control. Where in the Second Amendment does it say anything about every man and woman being able to buy an Uzi at a gun show with no waiting period? Oh, that's right - it doesn't. It talks about the necessity of guns for a well-armed MILITIA. Not a well-armed citizenry, but a militia. As far as who should have authority over this, I think there are some things that should be handled at a federal level. For example, I would take little comfort in gun control legislation in my state were it possible to cross the border into another state and purchase whatever I desired there.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Dan - Deerfield Beach, FL — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:43:38 GMT

To TEC - Spring, TX; I was visiting my sister and brother-in-law in Atlanta a couple of months ago and they were asking about my Ron Paul bumper sticker. My brother-in-law listens to Boortz all the time, and he told me that Neal had said he has a "man crush" on Ron Paul. They asked me to send them a bumper sticker!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Sean, Melbourne, Florida — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:56:54 GMT

Carrie:

If you look up the original meaning of the "militia", you'll find that it was all able-bodied males between specified ages (16 or 18 to 45). I believe the current law still identifies that. All of the men in the states were required to own a rifle or handguns of certain characteristics and an amount of powder and shot/bullets. Where a person could not afford one, the local municipalities typically provided them to these less fortunate people.

With respect to the Uzi and other modern arms, they were not envisioned at the time of the first amendments, but the requirement was to have all citizens ARMED to defend the people from attack.

Here's what the first president (under the constitution) had to say on the topic:

"A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence
from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." -- George Washington

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Travis Edwards, Columbus,Ohio — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:58:07 GMT

Me and my whole family are voting for DR Paul. Finaly a person we can trust not someone trying to please everyone at once. we can not CONTINUE DOWN THE SAME ROAD. ron paul!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Oreally, Des moines Iowa — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 21:34:00 GMT

Everyone thinks income tax pays for everything. I really wish Ron Paul would make it more clear to the dummies what income tax is paying for. Your state local taxes are paying for everything in your state NOT income tax.

Also Why should there be a middle man handling your money? It cost so much money just to run the system. Would you hire someone to take a huge piece of your check every week then go spend it on things you don't use?

I agree Ron Paul is a long shot right now but if his support keeps growing and he keeps raising money he will win no doubt in my mind. He just needs to get off the internet and onto T.V., he should use some of that money hes raising to get some campaign ads on tv and show the main stream what hes all about.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Eli, Portland, Oregon — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 21:51:29 GMT

Excellent article thank you!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Laura Tease, Fishers — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 22:34:48 GMT

If you read Ron Paul's plan for government, he states that he is constitutionalist who is going to limit the interference of the federal government in American's lives. By doing this, he would cut government programs that would be them shifted to the states and therefore eliminating the need for a federal income tax. Of course it is going to be a major change from what most Americans are used to, and our states are going to tax us more than we are used to. But by taking certain social programs and departments out of the hands of the federal government, it actually gives the American people more freedom in having the ability to voice how they want programs run in order to fit their regional needs. Departments such as Education should be a state issue, and in such a plan proposed here, areas like Las Vegas or other urban areas that are in need of major a educational system revival could get focused on more now that the state is control of it, not the federal government.

I believe that our federal government should have less interference with issues that should be state issues. Although I don't agree with Ron Paul's positions on issues like abortion, I think that fixing our federal government will eventually fix issues like that.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Mark, La Mirada CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 22:36:22 GMT

Andrew ,NJ
----For the first time ever I( )

This is exactly my story hopefully soon to be that of many.

For people who don't get the Monetary System thing go to Google Video then search "Money as Debt" it's practically a cartoon but I've had some conversations with some very economically literate types, its very accurate, very easy to understand and very disturbing. If you want to know what ails your country please watch.

Never before, and I'm 47 years old have I felt a need to vote for anyone. This guy's the real deal.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tony, NJ — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 23:03:06 GMT

Finally, a MSM article! Very frustrating though to read some of these comments in response to the article like, "His ideas sound good, but why should I vote for him if he doesn't have a chance?" ....AHHHH!! That's the exact attitude that has kept us from electing officials that will actually make a CHANGE for our country! You have to vote for who you feel is best for America, regardless of whether you think he has a chance! That's the whole idea of Democracy. Wake up, people. The government should be afraid of the people, not the people afraid of the government.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Alan D. Price, Ph.D. — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 23:21:00 GMT

Geoff, in regard to your comment: "...(Dr. Paul's)"hands-off" approach to foreign affairs is shortsighted at best and laughable at worst. Have you any idea how dependent we are on the global economy? To pretend as though it doesn't affect us would be a disaster," I note that you appear to make the common assumption that Dr. Paul's concept of "noninterventionism" equates to the notion of "isolationism." He is not an isolationist. He advocates talking with other countries, trading with them, and being friends with them, but not meddling in their internal affairs to the point of nation-building or imposing our concept of democracy on them without due respect for their cultural history and current circumstances.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Dee Ann Guzman, Stratford OK — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 23:24:58 GMT

Don says, "The last time the U.S. took such a detached approach was in the years leading up to World War II under the naive assumption that non-interventionism would bring security. The outcome was a catastrophic failure."

It seems that in America, every time that something scary or horrible happens politicians use it to take freedom away. Whether its 9/11 or Pearl Harbor, the reality of life is that there are bad men, and bad leaders of men in any age. However, that does not give government the right to take away or limit freedom, nor does it give government the right to break its own laws or ignore the tenants of sound policy. Pearl Harbor also happened for a reason. It was also a reaction to policy toward Japan. The simple truth is that America will at times be forced to defend herself from invasion. There is no country in the history of the world who has not been forced to do so at some point or another. It is only with a strange idealism where the people of the United States have been lulled into believing that their government can protect them from any catastrophe which is slowly, but inexorably bringing us to the brink of the tyranny that has engulfed previous nations. We shudder in horror at the people's Stalin, Hitler, Pol Pot, and more recently Mugabe have destroyed, and yet we seem intent upon following the same pattern that took those people to Hell. Gun control is an example. Germany, previous to WWII was big on gun control, and because of it the people had no chance to defend themselves against Nazi control. Gun control has been a major part of nearly all poltical genocide. Yet people like Carrie, who have been educated to distrust weapons, have no idea just what sort of end that thay are seeking to give future generations because they have been socialized to not think about posterity in direct opposition to the Founders of our nation. Personally I am grateful for patriots who stand in the breach, like Ron Paul, and head off the fingers of tyranny from my children. It is not surprising to me that so many cannot understand what is happening. How can one be concerned about posterity, when we cannot even concern ourselves with our own unborn children. Into that line you can read sadness.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Antony, Minneapolis, Minnesota — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 23:40:33 GMT

I'd love to see a Ron Paul/ Michael Badnarik ticket... Yeah!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Don — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 00:25:21 GMT

Dee Ann,

When it comes to reducing the risk of war, national strength and an effective balance of power is far more meaningful than paper agreements, non-interventionism, or neutrality. A nation's sincerity and goodwill can be interpreted by would-be aggressors as weakness to be exploited. It can enhance a nation's exposure to danger.

The years leading up to World War II offer a powerful lesson on the limitations of non-interventionism and neutrality. Such a stance can, by withdrawing a nation's power from the overall calculations of others, create a power vacuum that tilts the balance in favor of aggressors. In contrast, an effective balance of power can serve as a deterrent.

On October 16, 1938, following the fall of Czechoslovakia, Churchill observed, "If the risks of war which were run by France and Britain at the last moment had been boldly faced in good time and if plain declarations had been made and meant, how different would our prospects be today." U.S. non-intervention in the Pacific theater also influenced Japan's calculations. On June 27, 1940, The New York Times reported, "What is more, the Japanese now talk as if the power and influence of the United States are gone from the Far East..."

Following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Washington Post Columnist Barnet Nover observed, "Our own history should have taught us that oceans are not barriers but highways. The American continent was invaded repeatedly by Spaniards, Portuguese, Frenchmen, Hollanders, Swedes, Englishmen and others up to the time something resembling an American system was established."

Finally, the reality that neutrality provided no assurances of safety from war was understood by George Washington. On December 7, 1796, he told the House of Representatives, "...it is our own experience, that the most sincere neutrality is not a sufficient guard against the depredations of nations at war."

All said, the nation needs a credible foreign policy. It would put itself and its allies at great risk to return to an approach that proved so disastrous in the past.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Marty in Virginia — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 00:54:05 GMT

to carrie: it is with interest that i read your questions and comments and i have to say that i support ron paul and the only negative i see is that he does not support the death penalty (i do see his side as a doctor though) but what i cant understand is how you think pro choice is a right and should be supported (the right to end the life of and unborn child unable to defend themselves because of refusal to use birth control, safe sex, or to incapacitated to think straight at the time, etc [actions = consequences good or bad]) while at the same time you want to refuse a 2nd amendment right to law abiding americans their right to be able to defend themselves or overthrow a corrupt government. the only crimes are against persons and property and should be punished appropiately. how can you ask for support of what you consider to be rights and deny the same consideration of constitutional given rights to others.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Don, Ft. Worth, TX — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 01:04:10 GMT

A lot of Ron Paul's speeches and statements are archived at his Congressional website, www.house.gov/paul. If you want to know how he has voted and what he believes in, this site is a treasure trove of material. Congressman Paul warned against the invasion long before Bush sent our troops into the Iraqi quagmire. Dr. Paul also had the courage to stand up when it counted and vote against giving the President the authority to start the Iraq War.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Rhonda, Dayton, OH — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 01:39:51 GMT

I am a pro choice, registered democrat, and female. I NEVER thought I would vote republican but it wasn't like I was completely sold on Democrats either. Listening to RP has changed my expectations completely! I expect honesty and politicians to follow the rule of law. It would be difficult for a principled doctor who has brought 4000 tiny human beings into this world to declare it's legal to exterminate them without any question. He thinks about things logically. I will vote for RP in the primaries but it will be up to people to think critically about freedom. What does it mean to you? Are you willing to give it up so easily? Do you realize you work 4 months out of the year just to pay interest on money printed out of thin air? Wake up people.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

David Cameron — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 02:02:44 GMT

Many have difficulty understanding what they "hear" about Paul primarily because they don't understand that he is a Constitutionalist. I am trying to get my family up to speed on who he is, but its not easy unless they are willing to spend an hour or two reading for themselves. How unfortunate that many voters just will not research and learn for themselves. I agree with the post above that everyone needs to go to Ron Paul College. It's easy to do and you will thrilled if you do.
Go here: http://www.lewrockwell.com/paul/paul-arch.html
And here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ron_paul
Here: http://www.house.gov/paul/bio.shtml
Copied from his gov. web site above:
* Rights belong to individuals, not groups.
* Property should be owned by people, not government.
* All voluntary associations should be permissible -- economic and social.
* The government's monetary role is to maintain the integrity of the monetary unit, not participate in fraud.
* Government exists to protect liberty, not to redistribute wealth or to grant special privileges.
* The lives and actions of people are their own responsibility, not the government's.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

David Cameron — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 02:06:14 GMT

Here's the short version of going to Ron Paul College:
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ron+paul&search=

And please don't miss this one:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FG_HuFtP8w8

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Peter Farrell — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 02:07:34 GMT

Nice to see finally see some coverage about an honest man promoting real change.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

JT, St.Louis, Mo. — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 02:39:06 GMT

"...so I certainly hope no one is suggesting we ignore those who have lent us enormous sums of money over the years."
- Carrie

Carrie, they were not talking about not paying people back that lent us money, they're talking about the guys that make your money, yes, a private company (Federal Reserve) creates our money out of thin air, then, hands it to us, well now you owe them that money back..... plus interest. That is where your "Federal Income Tax" goes, "the people" are paying a private company their hard earned taxes, it's been going on since 1913.

If you haven't seen it do watch "America: Freedom to Fascism". You will see Ron Paul in this movie......
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-1656880303867390173&q=freedom+to+fascism&total=975&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=0

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Uri Brito Casselberry, Fl — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 02:41:22 GMT

It is remarkable what a message of peace can do to a nation. If one Ron Paul can revolutionize the internet, imagine 5 more congressmen with the same conviction!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bob D. Springfield Pa — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 03:41:41 GMT

Run the Federal Goverment? Are you nuts? None of the 950 Billion dollars collected from the income tax goes to run the goverment. It pays interest on the debt to the private bank owners of the federal reserve bank. Watch the Movie Freedom to Fascism available on google video for free.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bob D. Springfield Pa — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 03:45:10 GMT

For those who still think the Federal Reserve is a Goverment Agency opperating in the USA interest you need to watch the movie Freedom to Fascism available on google video for free. REAL SOON!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jeffery Jordan, Colorado Sprongs, Colorado — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 03:46:43 GMT

Ron Paul is the ONLY intelligent solution to our country's issues. Research the Federal Reserve System and you will find that it is OWNED by PRIVATE citizens not the United States Government. Research the North American Union, Ameridollar and the Real ID Act and you will find that all this was done without the consent or knowledge of the American Public. Research the Patriot Act I and II and see how many Rights you don't have anymore. Their plan is to take our Money, Property and our civil liberties. Without these we will become a union of electronically monitored slaves. Ask yourself why no other candidate on either side is addressing these issues and why. Research all this for yourselves and prove the truth.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Chuck from Georgia — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 03:54:46 GMT

For Carrie, Eastern Iowa - "Who are the militia? Are they not ourselves? Congress have no power to disarm the militia. Their swords and every other terrible implement of the soldier, are the birthright of an American . . . . The unlimited power of the sword is not in the hands of either the federal or state governments, but, where I trust in God it will ever remain, in the hands of the people." -- The Pennsylvania Gazette, Feb. 20, 1788

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Slammah, Winn ca — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 04:19:36 GMT

Personal income tax has never paid to run the federal government....It pays of a Debt to the Federal Reserve... Where exactly are we going to get the money to run the federal government? From a strong economy after the Fiat economy is dismantled, I would look into that if I were you.
Ron Paul
r3VOLution
\\\\\2008/////

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Carla Craig, Baton Rouge, Louisiana — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 04:33:38 GMT

I TRY NOT TO PUT WORDS INTO RON PAUL'S MOUTH. Instead I like to let him to do his own talking.

1)For those of you who have questions about how the government can run if we abolish the income tax, see Ron Paul's article here:
http://www.ronpaullibrary.org/document.php?id=483

2) For those of you who want to know more about Ron Paul and where he stands on the issues his webpage is www.RonPaul2008.com

May all of you have a wonderful day. :)

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jeremy, Minneapolis, MN — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 06:27:49 GMT

I too am trying my very best to inform and educate my friends and family about Ron Paul. I am gay, and so are most of my friends, and my straight friends are gay friendly, and they are all having a hard time with the idea of voting for a republican. I try to explain to them that it is nothing more than a label, that's it; and although Hillary and Obama may be slightly less evil than Rudi, they're still evil. I just wish my gay friends could see themselves as other things than just gay, and furthermore, Ron Paul seems rather good hearted and open minded on the gay issues. Ron Paul is probably the most honest, genuine, sincere candidate this country has had since JFK, I'd say regan, but his cabinet was mostly all those neo-cons we putting up with right now. If you really want to see a good open interview of Dr. Paul, watch the google company video on youtube.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Luke Hopper, Jacksonville, FL — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 06:28:55 GMT

RON PAUL IS NOT AN ISOLATIONIST!!! He is a non-interventionalist which is what Thomas Jefferson and George Washington were. "Free and open trade with all nations, entangling alliances with none" - Jefferson. This is what RP believes.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

david — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 06:52:44 GMT

Ron Paul A shining light through the darkness,It is our time.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Mark Augustyn — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 09:23:06 GMT

Let's work our asses off, and then some to get Ron Paul nominated, then elected.

Those discounting him don't have a clue about what's really going on at the street level...

The revolution has begun.

Ron Paul 2008

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Rick Price, Cleveland, Ohio — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 13:07:38 GMT

I have watched for Ron Paul stories since I became aware of him during his exchange with Rudy G. at one of the first republican debates. Although Rudy received the applause that night, I personally thought that Paul was the one making sense. I am not sure if I agree or understand all of his ideas yet, but I am convinced that he is a pragmatist with ideas that are outside the normal republican and democrat talking points (which represents an incredibly narrow spectrum of ideas that has hampered the debate in this country). Alternative ideas are always good for any debate.

For those that worry that Paul has no shot of winning the presidency, please be aware that Paul can have a major impact simply by changing the current polarized debate in this country. If he because a credible candidate, he can influence the debate leading up to the election. Such a challenge may serve to move mainstream candidate off their staunch and narrow positions. Ross Perot served such a role 15 years ago when his inclusion in debates forced a spotlight on the federal budget and the deficit. Neither George Bush nor Bill Clinton particularly wanted to challenge each other on balanced budget issues; however, Perot singularly focused on this issue and, in part, drove the national debate. I do not think it is a coincidence that when revenues allowed for a balance budget in the late ‘90s, the public assumed the government would balance the budget (which it actually did for a couple of years). Paul may have the same effect in moving the country off its polarized stances on Iraq and other issues.

Most of the news stories I have found regarding Paul have been from a coupled of news outlets I am unfamiliar with (with the notable exception of the "McCain has less money on hand than second-tier candidate Ron Paul" snicker-he-he stories that hit all the mainstream outlets a couple of weeks ago). I am glad that the above article is in a mainstream outlet. The number of supportive responses Paul has received also impresses me. Perhaps there is more support for Paul than the numbers indicate. This type of exposure will help in growing those numbers.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Don — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 13:56:42 GMT

Aside from his advocating an approach that would amount to an abdication of foreign policy, it should be noted that Ron Paul also has sponsored financial legislation that would, if enacted, prove damaging to the economy. For example, he introduced H.R. 2756 that would repeal Section 5103 of Title 31 of the U.S. Code. The existing law in question is as follows:

"United States coins and currency (including Federal reserve notes and circulating notes of Federal reserve banks and national banks) are legal tender for all debts, public charges, taxes, and dues. Foreign gold or silver coins are not legal tender for debts."

If this law were repealed, as Mr. Paul seeks to accomplish with his bill, then U.S. currency would cease to function as a medium of exchange. In that case, businesses or individuals could freely reject payment in currency and demand commodities, barter, personal services, etc., in place of currency. This would undermine the functioning of the U.S. economy.

Also, as the topic of the Federal Reserve has come up a lot in responses with highly conspiratorial descriptions, here's a link to the Federal Reserve Act: http://www.federalreserve.gov/generalinfo/fract/

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Brian Picard, Houston, TX — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 14:15:37 GMT

Go Dr. Ron Paul!

The only true Patriot running for the highest office in the land!

He is a man that can be respected and trusted.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Lost_in_Samoa — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 14:30:33 GMT

To Don,

"Also, as the topic of the Federal Reserve has come up a lot in responses with highly conspiratorial descriptions, here's a link to the Federal Reserve Act"

Uhmmmm....... Don,

Where exactly does the Federal Reserve get the assets it uses to purchase US Treasury bonds with?

http://www.uhuh.com/taxstuff/gracecom.htm

Thank you.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Paul, California, currently in Japan — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 14:59:50 GMT

Don-

I am sorry, sir, but you are flaunting your ignorance by your last post. The reason for Dr. Paul's proposal to repeal the stated act is quite simple. He firmly believes in a free market in every sense of the word: including in currency.

Right now, our currency is printed by the Federal Reserve, which is a PRIVATE bank that, while de jure overseen by the Congress, is de facto an entity free to print currency at will. The Federal Reserve Bank then loans this money to Congress to pay for the goods and services that Congress requires (i.e. DoD purchases, Foreign Aid Payments, Interest on foreign loans, etc.) WITH interest! This creates two problematic situations:

1. Because the currency is printed at will, with nothing solid to back its value, we are faced with a constant inflationary trend, which then leads to a constant boom/bust cycle in our economy. The Great Depression? Caused by the Fed's raising of interest rates that led to a prolonged period of deflation (the bust) after a period of low interest rates that rapidly increased the nations' currency supply following WWI (the boom aka the ROARING Twenties).

2. The second problem is the interest created by this currency system. Since the government is an entity that is incapable of operating at a profit, there must be another source of income for their repayment of the interest created by the Fed's creation of currency: thus, YOUR federal income tax. If you study the history of the Federal Reserve Act, you will notice that it occurred right around the same time as the 16th amendment that authorized the income tax.

The boom bust cycles of (1) can be solved by returning to currency with actual value. In the past currencies have been tied to a number of commodities including sea shells and beaver furs, but clearly such commodities would be next to impossible in today's world. However, precious metals (gold and silver, especially) have been the most common form of currency backing in the past 5000 years due to their rarity and desirability. Dr. Paul suggests a return to these forms of currency by allowing the federal government to return to coining this type of currency, as is mandated in the CONSTITUTION. It does not mean that we will be forced to carry pounds of gold or silver with us, it just means that the paper we use will be in limited supply (directly corresponding to the actual supply of precious metal in circulation), thus will hold a constant value. If there is a constant value, then there is a return to the pre-1913 world economies that survived without boom/bust cycles, yet still were able to provide us with innovations such as radio, electricity, railroad, automobiles, etc.

Of course, this will also lead to the destruction of problem (2), as if there is no more federal reserve to charge interest on the government (i.e. US, We the people!), then there is no longer a need for the federal income tax. Therefore, you have more money in your pocket and thus the ability to keep our economy functioning through your desire for goods and services.

Two last points:

1. Disabling of currency does not undermine the function of an economy, because currency is just a means to an end. The ends are what keeps economies functioning, and those ends are very basic: the human desire for goods and services. Thus, if a currency collapses (which if you do your research, you will find the dollar is close to doing), then another means to acquire goods and services will be used. Human beings are incredibly creative, in case you've missed it, and we do not need government to keep our economy functioning.

2. Second, if you're aware of pre-1913 US economic history, you will find out about a number of "panics" that were part of the propaganda used to make the people decide a central bank would be a good idea in the early twentieth century. However, if you look deeper, these panics were all a result of private banks printing paper currency that out-valued their actual holds of REAL money, or precious metals. So in order to solve the problem of these "panics", the Federal Reserve Act was created... allowing a central bank to do the SAME THING on a much larger scale!!

Wake up! Dr. Paul is the ONLY candidate talking about this issue and thus the ONLY choice for president if you desire to avoid a depression greater than the one that led us into WWII. Think WWII was bad? Imagine the war that will come from a greater depression with approximately 8 nations armed with nuclear weapons. Wow! Not for me thanks! Sign me up for the Ron Paul R3volUTION!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Ryan Mann, Ormond Beach, Florida — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:21:21 GMT

Don, people shouldn't be kept from using other currencies such as the government aproved currency. The founder of the liberty dollar is involved in a lawsuit with the federal government because the government has threatened arrest of people who use the liberty dollar. Why is that OK? Excuse me if I want to use a currency that is actually backed by something. Check out http://www.libertydollar.org.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Diana, Asheville, NC — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 16:35:20 GMT

Ron Paul has my vote. He's the only candidate that says anything that has any meaning. And he makes a lot of sense. I don't agree with everything he believes in, but he's the only candidate I can listen to and feel great about. This will be the first (and maybe last) time I ever register as a Republican - it almost gives me hives just thinking about it. But I want to support Ron Paul.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tom Gibbs — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 16:59:48 GMT

Ron Paul supporters had better do more than stay glued to the computer screen searching out comfort with likeminded Paul supporters and blogs. They better get out on the street and get some attention from those who don't know from Adam who Ron Paul is or what he's about. Else when the elections pass and we are stuck with another globalist warmonger big brother freak all the blame for loosing the war will lay squarely on those who did not take to the streets and contribute. Fair warning.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Don — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 17:00:08 GMT

Two quick points:

1) A commodity-backed currency would not, by itself, lead to currency stability. Whether the commodity were gold or silver would not change this. Stanford University Professor Economics Robert Hall explained, "The purchasing power of gold is far too unstable for it to serve as a satisfactory monetary standard."

2. Monetary volatility was "tremendous" during the Gold Standard. In his 1928 book, "The Money Illusion," American neoclassical economist Irving Fisher wrote of the Gold Standard era, "The tremendous fluctuations of money produce tremendous harm analogous to what would result if our physical yardstick were constantly stretching and shrinking but far greater because the money yardstick is used much more generally... This harm includes a constant robbery of Peter to pay Paul... confusion, and uncertainty in all financial, commercial, and industrial relations, constituting much of what is called the business cycle, producing depression..."

Yes, business cycles existed during the Gold Standard period. In fact the National Bureau of Economic Research provides a chart of all business cycles beginning in 1854 at http://www.nber.org/cycles.html

Finally, as the table shows, many of these business cycles occurred well before there was even the faintest whisper of the need to establish a central bank.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Michael Lankheim, San Francisco, CA — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 17:06:12 GMT

Ron Paul is the first candidate since Ross Perot that I can really get behind. His message is about freedom, strength at home, small government, and free markets. He is the only true non-interventionist in either party. He has the courage to detail his plan, even though some of it is controversial, and not so popular. America has gotten herself into a bad position, and there is no way to extricate ourselves without some pain, somewhere. At least he has the courage to recognize this, and call a spade a spade. He has my vote, and my support.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Nick, Clifton Park, NY — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 17:23:37 GMT

Don, you don't mean to suggest that the Federal Reserve Notes in our wallets are stable, do you? The value of the dollar fluctuates with great irregularity, so much so the British pound that used to be about equal to the $ now more than doubles it, and the Canadian dollar is almost tied where it used to be about 60% the value of a US dollar. The real economic problem is the inflationary nature of fiat money. The Fed is not beholden to the market. It artifically manipulates the market by setting interest rates at it's own whim. That is very unstable. We should be able to trade any commodity we want, liberty dollar, beanie babies, Harry Potte Books, whatever. A Constitutonally printed currency would be most sound and stable, backed in a hard item, not thin air.

The economists you quoted may be right, but they may be wrong. They are after all, just people. Do their works stand up against peer review?

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Lost_in_Samoa — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 17:45:01 GMT

Uhmmmm....... Don,

Please don't ingore my honest question.

Where exactly does the Federal Reserve get the assets it uses to purchase US Treasury bonds with?

http://www.uhuh.com/taxstuff/gracecom.htm

Thank you.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Don — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 18:02:08 GMT

Nick,

I never suggested the present arrangement promotes price stability. My point was that a commodity-backed currency won't overcome such fluctuations, even as some of its champions attempt to make just such an argument. In short, if one doesn't like the volatility associated with fiat currency, one should understand that a commodity-backed one won't be a panacea for that issue.

The economists I cited are credible and their work is well-respected within the field. Their short biographies can be found at:

Irving Fisher: http://www.econlib.org/library/Enc/bios/Fisher.html

Robert Hall: http://www.hoover.org/bios/hall.html

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Don — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 18:27:16 GMT

Lost_in_Samoa,

The following document contains the information that you are seeking: http://www.federalreserve.gov/boarddocs/rptcongress/annual06/pdf/audits.pdf

The cashflow statement (indirect method) details the sources and uses of funds (Page 6). The details from the "results of operations" can be found on the income statment (page 5). To keep things simple, there isn't a single "source" of funds, if that's what you were looking for.

If you are interested in greater detail, that information can be found in the notes to the financial statements. For example, information on Federal Reserve operations can be found on pages 24-25 of the document. Information on the gold and special drawing rights certificates can be found on page 26. Information concerning federal reserve notes, is on page 27, etc.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

cbgb, Cambridge, MA — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 18:33:48 GMT

Ron Paul is the hope.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tom Gibbs — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 18:36:29 GMT

Don,
Look at the real value of the dollar from 1800 until today. You will note that "the tremendous fluctuations of money" from immediately after the Federal Reserve was established until the present have been in only one direction, down. The dollar is now worth $0.04 since being entrusted to the Fed. Compare that to the extremely minor fluctuations both up and down prior to that event all the way back to 1800. Overall, the value remained flat and maintained within a few cents for over a hundred years.
Todays inflation is the direct result of the "money supply" generated by the Federal Reserve. Our money is really nothing more than a ledger entry in their books, loaned out by them at the "prime rate" to other banks and to our government via the purchase of bonds, all at a profit to the Fed. The more counterfeit money they put into the economy, the more the overall value of each and every dollar goes down. (The reason diamonds are so closely controlled; The more diamonds on the market, the less their individual value.) Our money has no real value now except for the superficial value of the trust afforded to the Fed and their ability to stabilize that value. They have done a dismal job so far.
Anyway, according to the Constitution it is the Congress of the United States who has the sole authority to coin money of gold and silver, something of real value. Instead, we now have worthless paper backed only by the shaky word of the secretive owners of a privately owned bank. The Federal Reserve is not owned by our government and is no more federal than Federal Express. It is a privately owned bank. We, the people aren't even able to identify the real owners. Get the names if you can. All in all, it's all pretty simple and Ron Paul is extremely knowledgeable on the subject.
Go check out these 2 videos on youtube and see if you can follow the conversation between Ron Paul and Fed Chairman Ben Benranke:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sVCStbbIvDg&mode=related&search= and
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8pLpI5rzKI&mode=related&search=

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Nick, Clifton Park, NY — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 19:49:51 GMT

Economics boils down to supply and demand, which is why Play Station 3s go for well more than retail price. More people want them than products exist. The issue though is how does one pay for the Play Station? Due to the way financial transactions occur it would be impossible to use gold and silver or rocks or tomatoes for every transaction. Paper money is ideal and if you use a credit card, your payment to the credit card company and theirs to the electronic's store in real paper money is valuable, if it is backed in hard currency. Paper money is simply supposed to be a handy replacement for a hard item. Congress has the authority to print money, but it has to be based on something, not the thin air the Fed prints money from, without Constitutional authority by the way. The paper is just an alternative form of barter item we agree upon. We only agreed upon Federal Reserve Notes because we were forcibly coerced by our government to accept no alternatives. What hard item should we use? I don't know, but gold and silver don't fluctuate nearly as much as other commodities. And, things can be made out of them so there is an inherent value to them. Copper, oil, diamonds all hold value as well, but their demand is more prevalent than gold and silver because of what they are used for, so they are more volatile. Gold and silver are more stable than any other alternative I can think of, even if they are not 100% movement free. Nothing is.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Don — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 19:57:25 GMT

Tom,

Depreciation of purchasing power and purchasing power volatility are two different matters. Without doubt, the fiat currency has seen a much more marked depreciation in purchasing power (which should be expected when there is no underlying asset). However, the dollar under the Gold Standard was much more volatile than that without the Gold Standard (which should be anticipated given the volatile nature of commodities prices).

Here are some statistics for comparison:

Average annual inflation:
1800-1912: -0.3% (slight deflation)
1913-2006: 3.4%

Average year-to-year volatility (standard deviation):
1800-1912: 6.6%
1913-2006: 5.0%

Biggest inflation (1800-1912):
1. 31.8%, 1808
2. 27.0%, 1864
3. 23.3%, 1863
4. 13.7%, 1813
5. 11.1%, 1862

Biggest inflation (1913-2006):
1. 17.4%, 1918
2. 17.4%, 1917
3. 15.8%, 1920
4. 14.9%, 1919
5. 14.4%, 1947

Biggest deflation (1800-1912):
1. -19.0%, 1809
2. -14.0%, 1802
3. -12.7%, 1815
4. -10.0%, 1823
5. -9.4%, 1878

Biggest deflation (1913-2006):
1. -10.7%, 1921
2. -10.3%, 1932
3. -8.8%, 1931
4. -6.3%, 1922
5. -5.1%, 1933

Given the strengths and weaknesses inherent with either approach--one is a better store of value, the other is less volatile--a few economists have suggested that the U.S. dollar be indexed to a broad basket of goods, as opposed to any single commodity. Nonetheless, actually bringing about and maintaining such a "pegged" system would be fairly complex. As a result, there has been no movement to create such an arrangement.

All said, there is virtually no prospect that the U.S. or any other major country will turn to a commodity-backed currency anytime soon.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Don — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 20:46:06 GMT

Nick,

You wrote, "Congress has the authority to print money, but it has to be based on something, not the thin air the Fed prints money from, without Constitutional authority by the way."

The U.S. Supreme Court has never made such a ruling. There is no constitutional requirement that paper money be backed by any commodity or be redeemable in specie.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Lost_in_Samoa — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 21:06:35 GMT

Hi Don,

I've read that statement many times.

Page 6 is the statement of cash flows. Uhmmm where does it list the 4.3 trillion in assets to cover loans made to the government in 2004?

According to page 26 of 38 of that document. Section (A)

" Payment for the gold certificates by the Reserve Banks is made by crediting equivalent amounts in dollars into the account established for the U.S. Treasury."

My question still stands. Where did the Federal Reserve get the assets to back up the above mentioned credits?

I will elaborate.

I work one hour for one dollar. I create the intellect or labor and perform some service. That service is of value and that value gives the paper receipt, (dollar), its worth as a medium of trade.

Right? Same for gold, clam shells, yak dung, and talley sticks.

But the Federal Reserve produces no value. It has no collateral. It creates the same paper receipt with no underlying asset to imbue those credits with value.

Then those credits flow into the economic system and are magnified by an order of 10 due to fractional reserve banking limits.

At the very least the system as it stands is not equitable for all people. For a select few private business, (The FED, and member banks), are given the right to create their wealth out of nothing and then magnify that wealth by a factor of 10.

At the very worst it is a "Ponzi scheme" intended to harvest from the average citizen every ounce of wealth that they create in their lives.

In reality a monetary system is just a system of weights and measures. A way of storing and exchanging value.

Why do we allow a private group of business men the power to tamper with these weights at will?

This is supposed to be an open and free country is it not?

Sincerely.

Mark

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Don — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 21:29:14 GMT

Lost in Samoa,

If you go to page 22 of the document, you will find that the Federal Reserve held $783.619 billion in U.S. Treasury securities in 2006. Furthermore, if you go to the budgetary data (p.123 on the .pdf shown at the end of this post), you will see that the Federal Reserve holds only about 1/7 of the national debt held by the public.

Finally, if one wants to know about the Federal Reserve's authority, one can find out what powers it has been given in the Federal Reserve Act of 1913. All said, I answered your initial question that the Fed has various sources of funds that it uses to purchase Treasury securities. The financial statements speak for themselves on that issue. On the additional question, you are mistaken in assuming that the Federal Reserve holds more than $4 trillion in federal debt. It holds $783.619 billion and the federal budgetary data shows that the general public (private individuals/businesses and foreign individuals/entities) holds the remainder.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget/fy2006/pdf/hist.pdf

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Markus Rebstock, Germany — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 22:49:04 GMT

i'm from germany and i really would like to have a ron paul here too.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Don — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 22:54:25 GMT

Typo. My sentence should read that the Federal Reserve holds about 1/6 of the national debt.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

jonathan, portland maine — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 00:51:34 GMT

For anyone and everyone who wants more info on Ron Paul (Jim from DC asked above), this is the best source I have found:
http://www.ronpaullibrary.org/
A true Statesman indeed.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Steve — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 01:03:38 GMT

I attended this meet-up. The energy is great!!
Do you research on this Guy!! RON PAUL make real good sense. Eliminating the income tax won't hurt us!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tom Gibbs — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 01:17:11 GMT

Don,
The CPI is more meaningful to us who live out here in the real world. It is the actual buying power of our dollars. Again, that buying power remained remarkably flat from 1800 to about 1917 but has totally tanked since then. In essence, the dollar was continuously able to purchase about the same amount of goods (within a 15% or so range) for over 100 years until the Federal Reserve got control of it. It has lost 95% of its value since and shows no sign whatsoever of regaining it.
Juggle all the numbers you want just the way the Fed instructs you to and of course, things have never been better, I don't buy it. Where did that 95% value go? Into the pockets of the Fed owners. They make a profit every time they crank out their phoney money. That is the only reason they exist, to bleed our wealth away and give us worthless promissory Federal Reserve notes in return.
An ounce of gold today will purchase nearly exactly what it would 2000 years ago. Its value has remained unchanged for that whole time. Currencies not linked to something real are very volatile. Gold is the most stable commodity to tie the value of currency to.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tom Gibbs — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 01:52:00 GMT

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tom Gibbs — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 02:20:49 GMT

Don,
Here's an interesting debate:
http://mises.org:88/Paul-Partee

A peek at Ron Paul's support

john, toronto ontario canada — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 02:47:09 GMT

American foreign policy needs some serious re-examination. Ron Paul is the only candidate who is talking about the dangers of empire building. Let's get serious about this candidate. His principles speak to what made America great and is the counterbalance to the ideological, cronyistic, power grab orchestrated by the bush admin and its corporate sponsors.

A concerned canadian watching from the sidelines!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Eric, Louisville Ky — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 03:21:10 GMT

No one who truly researches Ron Paul's ideas and voting record could possibly consider any other candidate to be as good a fit for president. You may not see eye-to-eye with him on every issue but how could you not vote for someone who's so loyal to the Constitution? All other candidates are in the pockets of special interests, not the interests of all Americans.

RonPaul2008.com Vote for change!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Grey Monroe, Raleigh, NC — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 03:52:14 GMT

Ron Paul is a Congressman from Texas who supports low government interferance into individuals' rights and a peaceful foreign policy. Out of 180 countires we have troops in 130, he wants them home to protect our own border and end illegal immigration. He has never voted to raise taxes, he voted againts the Patriot act and the Iraq war. He does not take part in the lucrative congressional pension program. He wants to lower federal spending to allow for the aboloshment of the IRS. He supports a free economy with sound money. Go to Ronpaul2008.com for all the info you want or look him up on Youtube where his fan base is enormous.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Mark — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 04:13:15 GMT

Finally!!!!! A candidate that I can honestly feel GOOD about supporting!!! REVOLUION!!
Ron Paul 2008

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bill, Virginia — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 05:57:32 GMT

holy moly, there sure are a lot of Ron Paul supporters posting on this story.

Pretty awesome.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bill, Virginia — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 05:58:48 GMT

holy moly, there sure are a lot of Ron Paul supporters posting on this story.

Pretty awesome.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Carmel Jean Bailey — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 06:15:35 GMT

Ron Paul is a true statesman. The income tax has always been illegal. Go to Google and key in Theft by Deception. It is a one hour and 27 minute video on the tax codes. Ron Paul is picking up momentum. We are only allowed to give up to $2300 as an individual doner and I'm wondering how come Hillary now has $45 million in her coffer and all the other candidates also have in the millions. The grass roots can win for Ron Paul. He is representative of every thing our founding fathers set up in this Constitutional Republic. A vote for him is to bring back Liberty, Freedom and Justice for all. Vote Ron Paul. Go to Google: Ron Paul Thanks for listening.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Carmel Jean Bailey, Kelsey, Ca — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 06:46:56 GMT

Some very important issues I forgot to mention. Dr. Paul was a flight surgeon during the Vietnam conflict. He seen much suffering and pain taking care of the wounded veterans. He has studied economics. He was an OBGYN doctor and has delivered over 4000 babies. The sanctity of life is precious to him. His record is impeccible. And it's out there for everyone to see. See Richard from Charleston WV on the things RP has voted against. God sent us a savior to save this nation, now don't let this man down. Support him with all your might. Go Dr. Paul and may God be with you.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Lost in Samoa — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 13:43:47 GMT

Hello Don,

Thank you for your response. It was informative. I am sorry that I have not responded to you sooner. I was busy distributing flyer's and answering questions about Dr. Paul.

I also apologize for casually throwing the number of 4.3 trillion around. That number represents what I believe to be the 2003 deficit including all of the line items conveniently ignored by the accountants. My mistake, in the passion of responding to you that number jumped out of the back of my mind.

Economics is not some arcane science that is intelligible to only the chosen few. It's common sense. Our grandmothers knew this stuff. It does get confusing when overly self-important people invent convoluted language to obfuscate the concepts. How does the old saying go? "If you can't dazzle them with brilliance, then baffle them with bulls__t."

Through all of this you have avoided directly answering my question. For the third and final time, I ask you,

What hard assets does the Federal Reserve itself possess to back up the credits it uses to purchase Treasury bonds with?

In order for the Federal Reserve to hold $783.619 billion in Treasury bonds, they as an incorporated business, must hold significant hard assets, yes? I don't see those assets reflected anywhere in the documentation you provided.

If the Federal Reserve System does not have any hard assets backing its purchase of Treasury bonds, then the Federal Reserve acquired the bonds through the "Mandrake Mechanism." The Treasury bonds were purchased by bookkeeping entries that represent no value. Nothing. Thin air.

You, I, and every other citizen must labor and create value to earn these bookkeeping entries. Yet the Federal Reserve is absolved from this requirement. They simply key in the desired amount.

If any other individual or agency attempted to purchase Treasury bonds with an account that had a falsified balance, that individual or agency would be prosecuted for fraud.

I suggest you read the book "The Creature from Jekyll Island". The report from the Grace commission is also very informative. Once you clear out all of the smoke and mirrors, this information can be found on the very site you directed me to.

No one is debating the authority of the Federal Reserve System. Many here are very familiar with the Federal Reserve Act of 1913. We know the signatories, and the history of its passage in the Senate. Yes, at this time, we are stuck with the Federal Reserve System.

What we are are debating is the fairness, ethics, constitutionality, and the long term viability of the Federal Reserve System.

I personally do not advocate a return to the gold standard. It had its own problems.

But it makes no sense to squander billions annually in debt service to the Federal Reserve when we do not have to. After all, if we can issue a dollar bond then we can issue a dollar bill. They are both financial instruments. One bears interest the other does not.

It also makes no sense to have a small, private group of select appointees from the for profit banking industry, deciding the monetary policy of the country.

As the late Mr. Friedman put it, "Any system which gives so much power and so much discretion to a few men, so that mistakes .. excusable or not .. can have such far reaching effects, is a bad system. It is a bad system to believers in freedom just because it gives a few men such power without any affective check by the body politic."

Our monetary policy should be decided by Treasury officials that have absolutely no conflicts of interest with the financial industry. Our monetary policy should follow our population numbers. Not the "Pump and Dump", oops... I mean the "business cycle" decided by the secretive Federal Reserve. All policy meetings should be held in public venues.

Another important point to consider is the damage the Federal Reserve System has done to our constitutional system of checks and balances. Prior to the Federal Reserve Act, the Federal government was relatively small. It was funded by tariffs, excise taxes, and the political will of the people.

After the 16th Amendment and the Federal Reserve Act the government has in effect an open ended credit account in the people's name. It is interesting to note that both the 16th amendment and the Federal Reserve act of 1913 were championed by the same group of individuals.

With unlimited funds and no oversight our Federal government has grown to absurd proportions.

This growth and centralization of power transcends traditional political party lines. This trend is not a Republican or a Democrat thing. It is a "Juggernaut" party thing. Huge government serving the wishes of huge money trusts and special interests. To the detriment of the common citizen.

With the recent executive orders suspending habeus corpus, the 5th amendment, and the patriot act, a strong case can be made that we now live in a police state.

If the definition of a police state is one where every aspect of your personal and professional life is monitored, regulated, and taxed. Then I submit to you that we do indeed live in a police state. But don't take my word for it. Name one aspect of your life that has no interference from either the state or Federal government.

I am more convinced now than ever that our monetary system's sole purpose is not to fund our elected leaders. But to excert control over the common man and to milk from him, his wealth in the form of interest.

Interest paid to service a debt that was manufactured from thin air. That interest is paid to a select group of plutocrats. A global variation of the Ponzi scheme.

Of all of the candidates we are offered at this time, only Dr. Paul has spoken of this fraud. That is why I print and distribute his flyer's. That is why I donate my time and wages to him.

Good day to you. Sincerely

Lost in Samoa

PS.

We forgot to debate the legal, moral, and ethical points of Fractional Reserve Banking. Oh well maybe next time, canvassing calls.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Osborn F. Enready, Toledo, Ohio — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 14:29:20 GMT

I totally support Ron Paul, he is exactly the cure for the Constitutional failures in this country over the last 40 years, and is probably one of our last hopes for regaining Constitutional Government once again. Voting Ron Paul to break the 157 year bi-partisan monopoly on politics would be the best thing moderate or swing voters may ever do.

Ask yourself a question:

How can you have a Constitutionally Limited, Democratic Representative Republic, without enforcing the Constitutional Limitations?

You can't.

Ron Paul is answering the call to restore those Constitutional Limitations, and restore the checks and balances in our nations government.

Ron Paul (P)/Mike Gravel (VP) '08!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Nck, Clifton Park, NY — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 14:53:41 GMT

Don, I meant "Congress has the authority to print money" as the legal part, and "but it has to be based on something," as the opinion part. Sorry I wasn't clear. All money needs to have value beyond the paper it is printed on, or you might as well just use it wipe your keister. Money printed out of thin air means to use it you would be buying a loaf of bread with NOTHING. So, the person that sold you the bread now has NOTHING. That is not capitalism, that is fraud or theft. The money might as well be counterfeit. Buying goods and services with paper that holds no value in and of itself is to trade NOTHING for SOMETHING. It gives artificial wealth to the person or persons that creates the money. If you say backing it in gold and silver is bad, I won't disagree with you based on your argument that they are volatile commodities, but as you suggested we can back the dollar on some sort of combination of items. Gold and silver just seem to be the most value rich items that aren't otherwise needed in industry, outside of jewelry production. We wouldn't want to value the dollar on food or water which are valuable always but that are not rare and also are destroyed soon after their purchase, by consumption or waste. Pick an item we can agree on it, that can be stored in trust long term and we have a relative solution to the thin air problem which creates artificial wealth. Artificial wealth is the main problem with the Federal Reserve and the system it perpetuates.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Richard Lake — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 16:07:48 GMT

I never heard of Ron Paul til the debates, and WOW, was I shocked. He has my vote for sure. As a young professional who pays 30% in taxes including Social Security, I'm not worried about how the federal gov. is going to operate...that's an inane question, since Ron Paul knows more about economics than tweedle dumb and dumber in power right now...they know so much that we are in serious debt and no one cares obviously except Dr. Paul. This is a blessing.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

JT Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 17:15:36 GMT

Not the government, the mainstream media, the ruling elite, nor anyone can stop the Ron Paul Revolution now we will ride this wave all the way to the White House in 2008. You cant fight against the youth you cant stop our movement. RON PAUL 2008

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Boston, MA — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 17:25:16 GMT

You ask where the government will get all its money if there is no personnal income tax? The answer is - corporations! Business tax!

He is also against the wastefull and detrimental 'war on drugs' as well.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Billy Kilford — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 18:25:45 GMT

I think this man is incredible!! I can't believe a person that actually knows something about government is running for PRES!!!

RON PAUL 08!!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Pete, Miami, FL — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 20:25:07 GMT

As far as the IRS being legitimate,

EVERY SINGLE DAY IT IS EXPOSED MORE.

Wake up people you’ve been groomed and brainwashed into good little sheeple!!!!

FACTS

The IRS is nor more federal than Federal Express.

The amendment allowing to IRS to operate was never Ratified

People are Fighting the IRS and WINNING their lawsuits MORE AND MORE everyday, Solely on the FACT that there is NO LAW ANYWHERE IN THAT MOUNTAIN OF A TAXCODE BOOK that says a private citizen HAS to pay a tax on there income.

IRS loses challenge to prove tax liability
Lawyer is acquitted after arguing income levy lacks legal foundation

http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=56855

ALL of the tax dollars that are collected DO not even go towards things like roads and schools it goes SOLEY AND 100% to paying off the INTREST incurred by the US Debt to the IRS Which is A PRIVATELY CONTROLLED BANK!!!!!!!!

WAKE UP !!!!!!!!!

Google video

America Freedom to Fascism WATCH IT & LEARN!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Lost In Samoa — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 12:24:22 GMT

Don? Hello?

Bueller..... Bueller...... Bueller.....

Oh Well.

In direct response to your assertion a few pages back in this very blog.

Our money system is not sound.

The Federal Reserve System is a fraud against the common citizen.

The graduated income tax is Federally enforced extortion.

These concepts are not a "Conspiracy Theory".

They are fact.

PEOPLE,

READ
LEARN
EDUCATE YOURSELVES
BE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOURSELVES
VOTE

Thank you for your time.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Don — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 12:59:59 GMT

Lost in Samoa,

The Federal Reserve is a financial institution. Most of its assets are "financial assets" i.e. cash, cash equivalents, Treasuries, etc., and longer-term financial instruments. But this is not novel for a financial institution.

If one goes to let's say Bank of America's balance sheet, one finds a similar situation: mainly financial assets and longer-term financial instruments (e.g., loans and leases).

http://media.corporate-ir.net/media_files/irol/71/71595/reports/2006_AR.pdf (page 101)

With respect to the business cycle, such cycles are not an "invention" of the Fed. They existed before the Fed was created. Fed policy, of course, can have an impact on such cycles. So can fiscal policy be it a supply side or Keynesian impact.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Lost In Samoa — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 16:33:42 GMT

Hi Don,

Good to see you again. Here let me help you out a little.

"The Federal Reserve is a PRIVATE, FOR PROFIT financial institution. Most of its assets are "financial assets" i.e. cash, cash equivalents, Treasuries, etc., and longer-term financial instruments. THESE INSTRUMENTS HAVE NO BASIS IN ACTUAL VALUE, BUT ARE A COMPLEX SYSTEM OF SHIFTING DEBTS NOTES THAT APPEAR AS ASSETS. IN EFFECT A SHELL GAME TO OBSCURE THE FACT THAT THEY HAVE NO INTRINSIC VALUE. But this is not novel for a financial institution."

What possible argument could you make that would convince the common citizen that allowing the Privately owned Federal Reserve to create debt based money out of thin air is good for them?

The same money that we labor to imbue with value.

We as a nation do not have a sound monetary system.

Our monetary system was designed and implemented by a small group of plutocrats.

Their sole purpose was gaining the maximum amount of profits for themselves and their stock holders.

This is not a "conspiracy theory". It is very well documented.

Highly suppressed, yes.

Inaccurate, no.

Thanks for the conversation. I'm going to the county fair to "Paul-inate". Enjoy your day. Sincerely

Lost In Samoa

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bill O. Rights, Grand Rapids, MI — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 17:13:18 GMT

Ron Paul will win!

Ron Paul is 1st in YouTube, Meetup, MySpace, Technorati, Alexa, Google, etc. The old media is just too slow to realize what is happening.

Ron Paul places 1st or 2nd in every straw poll, debate, and active participation survey.

Dr. Ron Paul has the most contributions from U.S. military personnel & veterans above all other candidates. So support the troops and vote Ron Paul!

Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton were doing about the same in the 'Scientific Polls' at this stage in their elections. ‘Scientific Polls’ at this stage only measure name recognition. Over the next six months Ron Paul will gain name recognition. Most people who learn about Ron Paul become major supporters.

70% of Americans want us out of Iraq and want change.

Ron Paul is only republican candidate against the war.

Ron Paul only needs about 30% vote from republicans sick of the war and abuse of powers to win in republican primaries.

Dr. Ron Paul is the man of integrity and courage that America needs at this time.

“Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost.” John Quincy Adams

We are making history – Vote Ron Paul!

Visit YouTube and search Ron Paul to learn more…

Join the Revolution -- Restore the Republic -- Save the Constitution!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tim, California — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 19:40:56 GMT

Carrie in Iowa, There are a few ways to save money. One is for tax cuts then you can also spend less, while the income tax does pay for the national debt we could save billions on a non interventionist foreign policy. Not to belittle you but you sound like a Democrat, relying on Govt money to take care of you, just an observation. Dr. Paul is for personal responsibility and while he supports a small federal Govt he also wants this to be a republic where the states tax and regulate themselves voting on whichever tax or needs a state may need. Its very important to separate the two types of Govt we have here and there role as it was intended to be.

Ron Paul in 08

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jive Dadson - California — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 21:50:48 GMT

"This ron paul cat does have some interesting ideas, but how can a candidate without the backing of the corporate machine stand a chance in politics today?"

The internet has changed the rules. The question now is whether or not the defenders of the constitution can use the internet to organize a winning campaign in the brick and mortar world. How will we know if we do not give it our best effort? Or freedom and prosperity are at stake.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Joe Lawson — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 23:09:44 GMT

To Carrie of Eastern Iowa,

We have only had income taxes since I believe 1913. Where do you think all the money came from to build roads, bridges, the White House, Schools, public Universities etc before 1913? Answer not from Income Taxes. The fact is that the United States spends much of its money trying to protect its global empire. The Iraq war alone is over 400 billion dollars and growing, remember we only have 300 million people in the United States, think how much every single person would get if your divided just that portion of the Federal budget up.

For more info go to the following link

http://nationalpriorities.org/index.php?option=com_wrapper&Itemid=182

ronpaul2008.com

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Tony, NJ — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 05:55:35 GMT

Ron Paul is the first candidate in a long time that has integrity. He is consistent and he is not bought and paid for by big business. He believes in freedom and he believes in the constitution. Anyone who asks "Who is Ron Paul" and is sincere only needs to do a little research to find out the truth. And the truth is that Ron the best candidate running for America. Period. Go Ron Paul !!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Bill O. Righs, Grand Rapids, MI — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 06:32:23 GMT

Ron Paul is doing pretty darn good at this stage.

Ron Paul is 1st in YouTube, Meetup, MySpace, Technorati, Alexa, Google, etc. The old media is just too slow to realize what is happening.

Ron Paul places 1st or 2nd in every straw poll, debate, and active participation survey.

Dr. Ron Paul has the most contributions from U.S. military personnel & veterans above all other candidates. So support the troops and vote Ron Paul!

Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton were doing about the same in the 'Scientific Polls' at this stage in their elections. ‘Scientific Polls’ at this stage only measure name recognition. Over the next six months Ron Paul will gain name recognition. Most people who learn about Ron Paul become major supporters.

70% of Americans want us out of Iraq and want change.

Ron Paul is only republican candidate against the war.

Ron Paul only needs about 30% vote from republicans sick of the war and abuse of powers to win in republican primaries.

Dr. Ron Paul is the man of integrity and courage that America needs at this time.

“Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost.” John Quincy Adams

We are making history – Vote Ron Paul!

Visit YouTube and search Ron Paul to learn more…

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Joe, Davis, CA — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 07:01:23 GMT

Ron Paul would unilaterally eliminate trade barriers. Why is that good? If we eliminate trade restrictions, allowing any country to import goods and services into the U.S., we get goods and services, and they get money (i.e. paper). That paper is only good for one thing: Buying things in the U.S. They can hoard money, like Japan did in the 1980s and like China is doing now, but eventually they will have to use it to buy U.S. goods and services. But if they hoard money (by, for example, not allowing Chinese consumers to import U.S. goods), the value of their currency will rise vs. the U.S. dollar because there will be no demand for U.S. dollars (why would a Chinese person want to buy U.S. dollars if their government won't let you buy anything from the U.S.?). Eventually, they have to start spending their dollars, which results in a huge export boom in the U.S. But the pent-up demand makes U.S. exports more expensive to them. To make a long story short: They give us two cars today and we give them $10,000 dollars each (or $20,000), then when they finally decide that they better spend their dollars, they give us back the same $20,000 dollars and we give them only one car. Thanks suckers!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

David., Harrison, Ar. — Sun, 29 Jul 2007 16:15:24 GMT

I don't think Ron Paul will cut the US completely away from trade with nations, but not allow trade to control what the US does as far as hurting the US in anyway.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Brock, Springfield Mo — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 16:19:24 GMT

Carrie, you still don't understand how everything has been laid out. You ask questions that prove your ignorance to this.

"And finally, as far as the income tax being used to pay our national debt - how do you propose we pay without it? Or should we just not pay it?"

The Federal Reserve was created (central banking system, what we fought the UK against for freedom) and since then we have had to pay interest on our own money. Before then our gov't had the right to print money and only printed as much as we had in gold to cover it. Since then the fed reserver (central bank not owned by gov't) has been printing our money but we have to borrow it with interest. THIS IS WHAT THE PERONSAL INCOME TAX PAYS FOR. This is the majority of our debt.

What we do is abolish the IRS and fed reserve, and forget about the interest accrued debt (or sue them for all our money back). If we printed our own money again and regained the gold standard the INTEREST ENGINE wouldn't be able to keep pushing up our national debt.

"Third, for all of you who say that even without the personal income tax, we would be able to spend as we did in 2000 or 1997...is that really going to get the job done?"

Give me a break, you only THINK nothing was going on overseas that costed billions of dollars. We have MULTIPLE fortress's in over 3 of every 4 countries on this globe. In the middle east alone we have be continually dominating and monopolizing the land with BIG USA SHRINES to promote our power and reach.

OPEN YOUR EYES.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

John Cumberland, Maryland — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 20:43:33 GMT

I want to see Ron Paul because he is our only hope. If he does not win I will move to another country that dosen't have any taxs at all.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jason, Tulsa, OK — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 22:20:13 GMT

Carrie,

I understood your first point, and I am glad to see that you are looking into it somewhat by asking these questions.

Regarding your second point, I will not get into the exact percentages, but I will say that the federal government relies on the federal income tax as a significant source of its income.

Of course, Ron Paul believes in limited federal government; therefore, while he would like to eliminate the federal income tax, he would also be interested in eliminating much of the federal government itself.

Although the federal government would ideally be reduced in size, there are areas, such as national defense, where the federal government is necessary, and these roles would not only be continued but also strenghtened by a reallocation.

While the federal government would be limited, the state governments would be allowed to thrive without federal regulation, and problems and needs would be addressed through a decentralized approach by local and state governments rather than through a centralized approach by the federal government.

Your third point raises the issue of the war on terror and other new demands on the federal budget, but as I mentioned previously, the federal budget would primarily consist of national defense.

However, Ron Paul does not believe in our current conception of national defense. I would summarize his approach to national defense as self defense as opposed to our current concept of national defense which I would summarize as imperialism.

Yes, there are terrorist threats to our country but spending trillions of dollars in Iraq is not making us safer. Ron Paul believes in bringing our troops home.

Yet, Ron Paul is not an isolationist. He is a constituionalist, and he believes in the advice of the founders. For example, George Washington stated in his farewell address in 1796 that we should open our commerce to all nations but avoid entangling alliances.

Therefore, Ron Paul would use the federal budget more efficiently in this regard, and although our current tactics might make you feel safer, in order to encourange a discussion on this matter I ask you to consider exactly how you are safer and also how you might be less safe absent these practices.

Finally, we could pay the federal debt by spending less in the absence of many federal departments and programs and changing the way we conduct our national defense through our foreign policy of imperialsim.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Jonas Richards Vernal UT — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 04:23:31 GMT

Chris is absolutely Correct! We do of course depend greatly on global issues. But we don't need to be the policemen of the world! Trade with them but don't get involved in their politics!

Think for yourself

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Joe — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 16:01:29 GMT

All your answers are here:

ronpaulforpresident2008.com

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Rahn, Loxahatchee, Fl — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 19:17:36 GMT

Ron Paul is an inspiration. If you want to know his position on just about anything... look here.

http://www.lewrockwell.com/paul/paul-arch.html

I think that will cover it. He is a BRAVE man, let's face it, if he is successful he will become the biggest target, media will denounce him, politicians will not cooperate with him, they will try to Carter him and if that doesn't work Kennedy him!
The only thing that can elect and Protect Ron Paul is a change in the hearts and minds of Americans that transcends Ron, so that if he falls we are all here to pick him up or become him. It is a fundamental change in the belief of what Government is suppose to do that is key in this debate.
Love, Strength and Peace

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Asheville, NC — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 18:07:23 GMT

Ron Paul Is Right – Sign and promote the Abolish the Federal Reserve Petition

Today in August 2007, the world financial systems and investment markets, real estate and the availability of credit are all under direct assault due to past actions of the Federal Reserve in the United States.

Read and sign the Ron Paul Is Right – Abolish the Federal Reserve Petition at http://www.petitiononline.com/fed/petition.html

Please link to the petition and forward this message to your friends and help the general public wake up during the current financial panic conditions to the problems we face from the Federal Reserve and Ron Paul’s solution.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Pat Johnson — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 18:11:47 GMT

I believe that Ron Paul is uniquely qualified to be our next President. We need to return to the Constitution, we need honesty in Washington, fresh new ideas, and we need big changes. This is only the beginning of the Ron Paul revolution. Every week, the meetup groups grow in numbers. I think that all of the naysayers will be surprised when Dr. Paul becomes a first-tier candidate. If he wins the Republican primary, he'll easily win the Presidency. He's the only one who can turn this country around. Don't be afraid to think for yourself and check him out. Don't let the news media decide the Presidency for you. Be prepared for the media to launch attack on Ron Paul. I hope that we will soon be hearing and seeing a barrage of Ron Paul information. I will vote for him!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

KEITH CRAWFORD — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 19:21:01 GMT

In Texas not only are we fighting the "Patriot Act" and all the executive orders now our sovereignty is being put up for sale. Every one of these candidates with the exception of RON PAUL...Will go forward with the NAU or North Amercan Union. You don't hear about it because it effectively eliminates our common borders with Canada and Mexico. It will eliminate the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Why do you think it is that we can police 130 countries worldwide yet illegal immigration flourishes here? Why do you think that traitor Bush is trying so desperately to ram amnesty down the House and the Senates throats? RON PAUL IS THE ONLY CANDIDATE REPUBLICAN OR DEMOCRAT THAT WILL SAVE THIS COUNTRY..RESEARCH IT YOUR COUNTRY DEPENDS ON IT!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

KEITH CRAWFORD — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 19:24:23 GMT

A peek at Ron Paul's support

T McCoy, Suffolk VA — Sun, 19 Aug 2007 05:47:33 GMT

Brief Overview of Congressman Paul’s Record

He has never voted to raise taxes.
He has never voted for an unbalanced budget.
He has never voted for a federal restriction on gun ownership.
He has never voted to raise congressional pay.
He has never taken a government paid junket.
He has never voted to increase the power of the executive branch.
He voted against the Patriot Act.
He votes against regulating the Internet.
He voted against the Iraq war.
He voted against NAFTA and CAFTA.
He votes against the United Nations.
He votes against the welfare state.
He votes against reinstating a military draft.
He votes for conservative principles.
He votes to cut government spending.
He votes to lower healthcare costs.
He votes to end the war on drugs.
He votes to preserve civil liberties.
He votes to secure our borders with real immigration reform.
He votes to eliminate tax funded abortions & to overturn Roe v Wade.
He votes to protect religious freedom.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Sharpinchitown, Illinois — Sun, 19 Aug 2007 13:45:37 GMT

Ron Paul is the real deal. NONE of our taxes help fund anything but paying down our debt; so in other words, the bankers who give us approval to print more money (devalues the dollar, making you work harder to remain at the same economic level) "own" us due to the actions of a treasonous Congress.

I hope when he is president he conducts a complete investigation of the events of 911 because everything that has happened since then have been because of that event.

If that event was anticipated or our government was complicit in that event, then that means they deliberately did not prevent it. If that is true, the invasions of Iraq, Afghanistan, the creation of the Dept of Homeland Security and the US PATRIOT ACT were all the reasons WHY they allowed 911 to happen - they just needed a justification ("another Pearl Harbor event" as the folks from over at the Project for the New American Century stated and those people are Cheney, Rumsfeld, Feith and many others that were and are front and center in everything that has happened in the last six years).

We look more like communist Russia right now than the "freest nation in the world."

A peek at Ron Paul's support

sharpinchitown — Sun, 19 Aug 2007 13:55:47 GMT

To Bruce in LV: We are not to entangle ourselves with ANY foreign country; most of all not send our sons and daughters to shed blood for the interests of another nation, INCLUDING ISRAEL.

Why do you encourage us to violate the prime document upon which this nation was built? Because your loyalty lies with Israel first, second and third over the U.S.? If so, you should lose your American citizenship instantly. America is to be first, second and third in terms of her citizen's loyalty.

If you love Israel, honestly, you should move there and encourage change from within so she's not so hated for her policies and quite honestly, very nazi-like actions toward those she occupies (OCCUPATION IN ITSELF IS VERY NAZI-LIKE).

The US should not be intervening in the affairs of other nations.

There are just and unjust wars and WWII was a just war to fight.

Iraq, Vietnam, Afghanistan were NOT just wars. They were done for other, nefarious reasons.

Hopefully you will see the difference.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Garry Myers, Dallas, OR — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 00:43:53 GMT

Carrie, Eastern Iowa you should look into the history of the income tax. #1) it was only suppossed to be temporary #2) It was never to go above 1% #3)It does not support our government #4) It pays off the interest of our debt to China #5) It's against the law, there is no law that states we have to pay income tax. #6) It unconstitutional!!!

If you knew anything about the history of the federal reserve, the IRS, and Ron Paul you would know who you had to vote for in 2008! Rock on Ron Paul!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Queue, Philippines — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 11:31:13 GMT

Thank you for providing coverage to Dr. Paul's campaign MSNBC!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Ben Fondrk — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 22:19:55 GMT

I love Ron Paul because he is the only candidate who has solid fundamental beliefs (based on the constitution) and always votes based on them. For this reason he is the only politician I have ever heard who doesn't use rhetoric to consistently spout off platitudes, half-truths and lies with the intent of covering up policies that are fundamentally flawed or corrupt. In turn, he can choose policies that are truly good for Americans. He is the only candidate with the courage to set a new course from the one that is currently running the country into the ground (war/welfare state)

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Earl Morehead — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 03:45:44 GMT

Ron Paul's message was the same back in the seventies when I was attending college in west Texas (Sul Ross State in Alpine, TX..........
He has managed to "stay the course" all these years and I will continue to support his efforts even beyond his life span, as Freedom is his message, and the Freedom message is where the USA began....

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Karen, St. Augustine, FL — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 03:13:43 GMT

I don't want to go to the voting booth and have to choose the lesser of two evils AGAIN. I'm tired of it. Is it too much to ask for a President we could be proud of? All you have to do is go watch some of the Ron Paul videos and you'll see what all the Ron Paul supporters are talking about and why they're all fired up. My God, he's HONEST. To say that he doesn't have a chance is like saying honesty doesn't have a chance.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Kerry McDonald, Atlantic City NJ — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:23:50 GMT

If Ron Paul would really be an agent of change he would oppose the current undemocratic election system and offer multi-party system instead but it seems that the current way of handling things in Washington between the republicans and democrats is just fine for him and his supporters.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Sean, Melbourne, Florida — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 21:05:53 GMT

Kerry:

Did you know that the Libertarian candidate and the Green Party candidate were barred from the 2004 presidential debates? Did you know they were arrested outside the St. Louis convention center for trying to serve the "Committee for the Presidential Debate (CPD)" to let them into the debate? Did you know they were both on at least 48 of the state ballots? How do you expect third party candidates to participate in the process when the "media" only allows the one party (the Demicans/Republocrats) to "debate"? Did you ever watch the "debates" spoof on MAD TV? The current "party" leaders are all just different sides of the same coin! Dr. Paul is the only true statesman in the entire pack in "both" parties...

A peek at Ron Paul's support

mike hohlt marine, mn — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 17:53:55 GMT

Fox news text poll was won by Paul, and completely ignored by Fox News, something strange in the Giuliani news with fox. Can anybody explain why Paul is being ignored by press and news media. What news media broadcasts the truth. Fox is death against him, Hannity just snears and snickers when they talk about Paul, am I the only one that noticed that?

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Robert MacCargar, Waynesville, NC — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 01:35:31 GMT

One of the last comments was "Who is Ron Paul". I think that is one of the points of the article. Seek out Ron Paul, he is everywhere. The "Mass Media" may be selecting their winners as usual, but, the people will win this election. Ron Paul will save our Great Nation from destruction.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Stacy, Parker Colorado — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 20:33:36 GMT

Everything you wanted to know about Ron Paul, and then some...

http://www.fdrs.org/how_does_ron_paul_stand.html

http://www.ronpaul2008.com/

http://www.ronpaullibrary.org/topic.php?id=2

http://makesomechange.blogspot.com/2007/03/where-does-ron-paul-stand.html

http://www.house.gov/paul/

http://www.lewrockwell.com/paul/

http://www.ronpaulaudio.com/

The man gets my vote.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Reed — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 17:15:58 GMT

RON PAUL 2008!
NUFF SAID!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Shannon K., Herrin, Illinois — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 03:52:31 GMT

The majority of the federal income tax goes to the federal debt every year. We spend 57 billion dollars that the U.S. doesn't have a day. More than 50 percent of the United States spending is on the military.... So if we cut spending then we could abolish the income tax and stop going into debt.
Research your stuff. If you do this you will see that Ron Paul is the most honest politician and the right choice for america. Please don't judge just based on political party. Vote for freedom...Vote Ron Paul.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Dean,arlington,tx — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:13:36 GMT

people want thier freedom
people want the value of our money not to deteriorate
people want liberty
people want peace
People want change
I think all will be surprised when "THE PEOPLE"
Elect Ron paul as our next President

http://www.jointhefightforfreedom.com

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Daniel Scales, San Marcos, Texas — Sun, 07 Oct 2007 16:14:16 GMT

Dr. RON PAUL for all who are not brain dead is the REAL DEAL in 2008!!!

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Brad, Birmingham, AL — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 22:30:29 GMT

You know what. I'm just gonna quit saying "Ron Paul". From now on its "President Ron Paul". He has my vote and complete support.

I only heard his name a couple of times before the first of this year. I was so completely disgusted with the front runner candidates that I almost stopped paying any attention to the race. Then I saw a few clips on Paul on Google. I researched the guy and holy cow! I found out this guy is what we need!

Lets be honest with ourselves. Do we really expect a big change in the spending habits and paternal patterns of Washington if we elect a Rudi, Romney or Hillary? Da!

When this guy talks it is a serious departure from the business as usual. He has a record that says it all. One of the most significant things I read was regarding his bill consideration. One of the first questions he asks when looking at a bill being introduced is: "Does the constitution authorize congress to do this or not?" If not then he doesn't even look at it. That says enough for me.

Fussing over what percent of the federal budget is paid for with personal income taxes is like arguing about what percent of the thief's loot came from the houses on the right side of the street! It don't matter! He's a thief!

President Ron Paul sounds better all the time.

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Gery — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 21:02:53 GMT

Hi you all,
Just to let you know that also non USA citizens support RP, so greetings from a Belgian but living on an island near Spain! Ron Paul's revolution is not only important fo the USA but for our entire planet. As you can see on this link I was already involved way back since I put Ron on my blog...anyway when you find the time see the Blog as this deals with...lets say some issues that go a bit further then elections...LOL...that's it, take care you all.
LINKS
http://global-collective-conciseness.blogspot.com/2007/05/ron-paul-hope-for-america.html">http://global-collective-conciseness.blogspot.com/2007/05/ron-paul-hope-for-america.html
http://global-collective-conciseness.blogspot.com/
http://mymindtwist.com/

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Norma Treese — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 08:36:51 GMT

I had been voting Democrate for the last 40 years, believing that the best I could hope to do, was vote for ,"The Lesser of Two Evils." Then about two months ago my 20 year old son told me about Ron Paul and what he stands for. I was so impressed, and I started doing my homework, finding out all I could about the man ,Ron Paul, and his voting record and his explanation of how his ideas for America could be achieved. I know without any doubt that candidate Ron Paul is the most sensible , no nonsense, inteligent, honourable man we could ever find. This time I'm not voting for ,"THE-LESSER-OFTWO-EVILS", I'm voting Republician, for ,"THE BEST MAN FOR THE JOB," the job being, showing us the way to get our America back to where it should be. Americans, "We have this one chance to get it right, "Let's Not Blow It." Ron Paul is not in it for the money, he is the real McCoy. Let's all do our part to make things better for All Americans," Vote Ron Paul for President."

A peek at Ron Paul's support

Norma S. Treese, Shamokin Dam Pa — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 09:00:08 GMT

I voted Democrate for over 40 years , I switched to Republician after hearing about Ron Paul and what he stands for. I researched him and the more I found out about Ron Paul the man , and his ideas for America , the more I agreed with him. I can finally vote for someone I believe in. He is not in it for the money and he is a man of integrity, not a mud-slinging, party designed plastic candidate. Ron Paul cares about his family, his country, and all its' people. If we all work together, with "President Ron Pauls'" guidance, we can restore America to it former place of honour and power, and world-wide trust and respect. Also, "The American Dream", was stolen from many Americans, with Ron Pauls' help we can give all Americans an equal chance to achieve their "American dream."