“You know, there’s a lot of talk about what you should seek in a president. And I’m not one that is prone to talk about, “I do this”… “I will do this.” But I can talk generically about what, I think, a president should be able to do, and should do. One thing the American people want—and I agree with them—they want a strong president. There is no doubt about that. But the question you should ask: Where should those strengths be directed? Should the strength of a president be directed toward building the TSA and Homeland Security and policing the world?
“No, the strength and the character of the individual should be directed toward standing up for freedom, standing up for liberty, and restraining government. That’s where the strength should be,” Paul, 76, proclaimed in a speech in Exeter, N.H. He actually had announced his candidacy for the GOP nomination earlier in the day in an interview with George Stephanopoulos ABC’s “Good Morning America.”
Paul, an obstetrician who has delivered 4,000 babies, has represented Texas three times in the U.S. House for a total of 12 terms. He is known as “Dr. No” for his objection to most government spending and as the “godfather” of the Tea Party movement for libertarian philosophy.
He and his wife Carol have five children, including Sen. Rand Paul, a Republican from Kentucky.
Profile Details
- Birthplace: Pittsburgh, Pa.
- Family: Carol Paul (wife); Children: Ronald Paul, Jr., Lori Paul Pyeatt, Senator-elect Randal Paul, Robert Paul and Joy Paul-LeBlanc.
- Religion: Baptist
- Job before candidacy: Congressman
- Political experience: Ran for president in 1988 as a Libertarian and in 2008 as a Republican; 12 terms in U.S. House.
- Most recent book written: "Liberty Defined: 50 Essential Issues That Affect Our Freedom" (2011)
More on Ron Paul: He hopes the third time is a charm.
Pros: Committed core of supporters who will walk over hot coals to cast a ballot for him. Ability to raise big money online from those who are attracted to his libertarian philosophy.
Cons: Positions on Iraq/Afghanistan and legalizing drugs put him at odds with a majority of the GOP base. Committed by narrow sliver of support that is tough for him to expan
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