Breaking News: A Ron Paul surge in Nevada

Boy, oh, boy! Hidden behind all the hoopla, headlines and the Nevada caucus victories of Mitt Romney and Hillary Clinton is one little-noticed but stunning political development and number:

Ron Paul, the one-time Libertarian candidate and 10-term Republican congressman from Texas, was in second place. That's right, Second Place. The 72-year-old ob-gyn who's always on the end of the line at GOP debates or barred altogether, was running ahead of John McCain, Fred Thompson, Rudy Giuliani, in fact, ahead of....

all other Republicans except Romney, who easily captured his second state in a week after Michigan.

Now, Romney and Paul were basically the only Republicans who actively campaigned and advertised in the desert state. But a win is a win. And second place is second place. When Romney won Wyoming a couple of weeks ago, Paul won zero there.

In Iowa, Paul also beat Giuliani and he topped Thompson in New Hampshire, where Paul was excluded from the Fox News debate, which only energized his fervent followers. His jump in GOP election standings comes despite recent reports about a long series of newsletters from the 1990s carrying Paul's name and numerous racist and anti-Semitic remarks. Paul has denied writing them and denounced their contents.

Thanks to those passionate and tireless supporters, Paul, the only Republican to oppose the Iraq war and favor significant dismantling of the federal government, won about 10% of the vote in Iowa and 8% in New Hampshire, coming in just behind the former New York mayor in the Granite state.

But in Nevada today with a poor Republican turnout of less than half the Democrats (just under 45,000 vs 115,000) and with 99.7% of the precincts reporting, Romney had 22,644 votes, or 51%. Paul had about a quarter of that, 14%, or 6,084 votes.

Paul built a slow steady lead of about 400 votes over the veteran Arizona senator's 5,648 total.

Huckabee sneaked past Thompson into fourth place with 8%, or 3,613 votes, a tiny vote lead over the former Tennessee senator, who had 3,518. Both had 8%. Giuliani, who's counting on a late-state surge to salvage his one-time now-faded national front-runner status, had only 4% of the Nevada Republican vote with 1,910 ballots. And California's retiring Congressman Duncan Hunter was last again with 2% or 890 votes.

Now, of course, comes tonight's South Carolina primary vote results where Paul needs to be a bit more realistic perhaps. He's got three campaign offices there and has advertised and campaigned actively. But McCain is well-known there, has been ahead in polls, relying heavily on his strong support in the state's large active and retired military population.

And, as in Iowa where he won the caucuses, Huckabee is counting on another large turnout among South Carolina Christian evangelicals. Polls showed the Baptist preacher narrowing McCain's lead in recent days and Thompson, the former senator who's got the most riding on a strong South Carolina showing to invigorate his sagging campaign, also gaining some.

It was reported to be snowing heavily in the state's Piedmont region, where the evangelicals are concentrated, and that could depress turnout, while McCain's coastal territory was getting some cold rain. Now, whose crowd gets more depressed? And can Thompson make a strong enough showing to stay in the race? He planned to return home to ponder the future with no campaign activities planned for coming days.

The results tonight will show whether Ron Paul's fine morning and afternoon turn into a nice all-around day or not. Either way, he was likely the top GOP fundraiser in the fourth quarter, raising nearly $20 million, and his website reports gathering in another $1.34 million so far this month. So while Giuliani stopped paying his top staff this month, Paul is likely to linger long.

Paul's crowd plans another "money bomb" on Monday when thousands will deliver new donations on the same day. One previous time they did this, the Paul campaign set a new one-day online record of $6 million.

--Andrew Malcolm

Comments

[Duck Soup]

RP has tapped into something. People want the truth. They are tired of old style politics. Too bad RP is not viable. Obama, however, is.

What about Clinton? What does Clinton's outrageous robocall in Nevada say about her? It is not just an isolated incident. Want to make a difference RP supporters? Want to change politics. Want to make your vote actually COUNT towards someone who wants change and can actually get elected President?

Would love to hear your POV and hear your vote in who will bring more change to America - Clinton or Obama.

[Jed Merrill, ConservativeRepublicans.com]

Congrats to Dr. Paul on a thrilling second place finish. I am personally a Mitt fan, and pleased to see McCain fall to third place in this contest, especially given that Ron Paul actually does have some positive things to say and would govern more conservatively than McCain.

[Tara]

Thank you for writing this article about Ron Paul!

[David Cisco]

Who is Mitt Romney?

[charlie]

Thanks for the article Andrew!

I wonder what other lame excuses the MSM is going to come up with now to exclude him from future debates. Ideas, anyone?

[JP]

Motivating news--libertarianism is indeed alive and well in the West.

This naval officer will be marching with Dr. Paul for the Martin Luther King money bomb!

[Jamie]

In an honest election held in an honest culture and country, an honest man like Ron Paul would already be president.

[david from texas]

Thank you Andrew Malcolm for the article about Ron Paul!

I heard you the other day on XM radio (POTUS 08), and enjoy listening to and reading your perspective.

Your article today is an excellent analysis of what happened today. Your work is a breath of fresh air, and reflects REAL journalism, unlike the garbage that comes down the pike in the MSM.

(Well, thanks for your kind words. Appreciate you visiting us and taking time to leave a comment. Hope you'll come back often and tell your friends about Top of the Ticket.)

[Bob Pylant]

GO RON GO!!!! Slowly but surely Ron Paul is getting his message out and rising in the polls.... People are waking up the blacklisting of Ron Paul by Fox, CNN and MSNBC - now THIS VERY DAY - those same networks are are only posting the Winner... why?? Ron Paul won second naturally... When he placed fourth in Michigan they only reported first, second, and third... (RON PAUL) WAS in fourth by only a few votes....
This is BLATANT MEDIA BLACK-LISTING and I thank Los Angelas Times for reporting a good article on a candidate who wants to reduce the government, get rid of the Patriot Act (which is in direct violation of the bill of rights), get us out of Iraq and all the OTHER countries who dont need us - Stop funding Israel AND THE opposing Arab countries (i.e. funding both sides) etc. etc. etc..
GO RON GO

[Dan]

Thanks for this blog. I see your blog once in a while and you have been for the most part objective. Although Ron Paul Supporters can sometimes come off a bit difficult to deal with, you have to understand frustration is the main reason behind it.
Thanks anyway,

(Well, not you've tried us, hope you'll come back more often and spread the word among your pals. We try to be entertaining and enlightening and sometimes provocative.)

[Fabian]

This is why we need to keep our fervor and focus! Five months ago, NOBODY gave us a chance in hell to place second in any state, look at what happened today!

[Tess]

Ron Paul for the Win! Ron Paul has staying power, supporters, and bank to win this. Thank you for noticing Mr. Malcolm, and actually reporting this victory for Ron Paul and his message. Just wait for the California Primary, the Ron Paul supporters will be out in great numbers.
http://ronpaul2008.com

[Lorenz]

Seriously - I love you guys

(Well, we love regulars like you too. Spread the word.)

[TEFLON RON]

Cream, the cream always rises. Slowly but surely the message is spreading.

[Billy]

Once again, Andrew Malcolm is one of the only people keeping an eye on the real story here. I don't think many people have realized that if the Republican Primary continues as it has, there will be a brokered convention in Minneapolis with Dr. Paul as the kingmaker. I think he'll have some demands (in writing) before he forks over his delegates.

And why is Giuliani still being interviewed by major media? Didn't he spend somewhere in the neighborhood of 60 million for this string of 'bottom tier' finishes? What a joke.

[Sam]

Thank you for giving Ron Paul fair coverage.

(You're welcome. But it's our job. Hope you'll return often and spread the word about this spot.)

[Jess]

"One previous time they did this, the Paul campaign set a new one-day online record of $6 million."
more accurately, That is the record for one-day fund raising ever had, not just on-line.

(Well, to be fair, I think the Jerry Lewis Telethon would argue with that.)

[Robin Dicken]

I'm 6 foot 220 pound male heterosexual. Will you marry me Andrew? Go Ron Paul!!!

(I think I'll pass but thanks for reading us and making my day with your comment. Spread the word about this blog pls.)

[patty]

Wow am I the first to post a comment?!!!

Heartfelt thanks, Andrew, for giving Ron Paul the attention he deserves. You KNOW how much we appreciate it!!! See you again Monday after the next money bomb.

[InInkPlease]

Andrew you throw us another bone. I'll take it but sadly this is a blog. And only smart people ;) read blogs.

[Robin Dicken]

I'm 6 foot 220 pound male heterosexual. Will you marry me Andrew? Go Ron Paul!!!!

[Charles Bentley]

Ron Paul is my political hero. I would do anything for him. A True Hope For America and Humanity!
He has my support forever and I'm 27 years old!

[Randy Jones]

Andrew - Wow, thank you for the wonderful piece! If I still lived in So Cal, I'd have to subscribe to the LA Times (or at least run out and buy a handful of papers) in appreciation!

Randy Jones
Reno/Tahoe, NV

(Well, all you have to do now is return here often and readn and leave Comments. and hopefully tell your friends to visit too. We appreciate your visits and thoughtful comments.)

[E Philipp]

Ron Paul has done well, not top of the pile spectacular, but well in every State so far. I see this as quite a show of support from a very diverse demographic. It will be interesting to see how SC plays out this evening. So far I think Paul looks like a candidate with National support, isn't that what it takes to win in the general election? Just a thought...

[Albert Meyer]

Thanks Andrew! Ron Paul will not go away. If he had gotten his fair share of media attention, he would have been much higher in the polls and considered as a viable candidate. (He is viable, regardless of the media's insinuations.) Instead he had to fight his way through the media fog for some attention. The GOP is doomed. Their marginalization of Dr. Paul will cost them dearly in November. If Ron Paul is not the nominee, and he does not run as an independent, his supporters will vote for him as a write-in, but they will not repay the GOP's injustices with kindness. We will not forget! Some us, longtime GOP voters, will vote for the Democratic candidate to express our disgust at the GOP's betrayal of our interests. Until then we will continue the fight for our hero, the best man to run for the White House since the times of the Founding Fathers.

[Tracker]

Thanks Andrew. But you forgot to link to the money bomb site: http://www.freeatlast2008.com/

[Marta]

Yaaaay. We did it! No thanks to the LA Times and the rest of the plutocracy!
Yaaay!

[Andrew from FL]

Thanks for the great article!

And Paul may have advertised more than anyone but Romney, but he started off at a great disadvantage being the obscure figure he is. I doubt he even leveled the playing field when all was said and done.

[Manual Labor]

Sorry Paulies. Second in Nevada doesn't help. When are you going to quit wasting your money and pack it in? Personally. I'm sick of hearing, "The media is censoring Ron Paul!" No. There is no conspiracy. No media is "afraid" of him. He's just not newsworthy. His policies would be a disaster.

[Justin Schafer]

Dr. Paul is gaining momentum and we still have a long ways to go. People are waking up by the droves. America is sick, and Dr. No is our cure.

[Pete]

This is great!

Second place despite the mainstream-media blackout!

Go Ron Paul!

Swiss Friends of Ron Paul:
http://switzerland4ronpaul.blogspot.com/

[lastnymleft]

There IS 'hope for America', and his name is Dr Ron Paul.

Let's just hope that it's not too late for this country, and enough people wake up in time.

Thanks for the article - again - Mr Malcolm.

[JimS]

RON PAUL 2008!!

This made my day, week, year even :)

Now we MUST push harder...We must get some Press...GO RON GO!!!

[Lars]

It seems to me that some of the candidates will drop out sooner rather than later and the one candidate standing for a very long time will be Ron Paul. It will be interesting!

If you want to make sure your future articles get noticed by the large group of Ron Paul followers and other people interested in the Ron Paul message you yourself can add a link to your future articles at www.WhatTheySayAboutRonPaul.com.

[corey]

run ronny run

[Doug Jobes]

The New York Times still doesn't even show Paul on its Primary Season Election Results page: http://politics.nytimes.com/election-guide/2008/results/index.html . The NYT needs to wake up.

[TrueJustice]

This was a great day for Dr. Paul. This morning I was at the NJ Straw Poll where he won with 62% of the vote. Then he came in second in Nevada. He is slowly building his strength like a snowball rolling down a mountain.

[Scott Zambernardi]

You guys give a lot of positive articles for Ron Paul unlike most media outlets and for that I thank you.

[Dylan]

You state: "But in Nevada today with a poor Republican turnout of less than half the Democrats and with 98% of the precincts reporting, Romney had 22,390 votes, or 51%. Paul had about a quarter of that, 13%, or 5,802 votes."

These are real results:

Clinton 5,326 51% 12
Obama 4,739 45% 13
Edwards 394 4% 0
Uncommitted 31 0% 0
Kucinich 5 0% 0
Richardson 0 0% 0

Dem Total = 10495(98% reporting)

Romney 22,629 51% 18
Paul 6,077 14% 4
McCain 5,641 13% 4
Huckabee 3,607 8% 2
Thompson 3,518 8% 2
Giuliani 1,907 4% 1
Hunter 890 2% 0
Tancredo 0 0%

Republican total = 44260 (99% reporting)

Clearly showing a HUGE republican turnout of 4x that of the democrats.

Ron Paul vs Hillary vs Barrack

Paul 6,077
Clinton 5,326
Obama 4,739

This is the real story!!

(Sorry, Dylan, you're misinformed. The state reported about 115,000 Democrats caucusing while the GOP votes with 99.97 of the precincts reporting totaled almost 45,000, which is indeed a poor showing vs the Democrats.)

[Doug D]

I guess it just goes to show, if Fox News or anyone else wants to hold a debate with the top five Republican candidates, they will have to include Ron Paul and leave out Giuliani. Ron Paul is in the top 4 in actual votes received so far, first in 4th quarter cash, and first in grassroots volunteer activism.

Ron Paul actually received a lot of votes in Wyoming, but the way their county conventions are organized, only the winner gets a delegate. In some Wyoming counties, Paul earned up to 45% of the vote.

[Beth]

Andrew, thanks for writing this blog about Ron!

Beth

[andrew]

nice to see some decent coverage of the ron paul win.

[Tim]

Mr. Malcolm,

Great journalism!

You are the only one I can depend on to give an accurate and unbiased account of the ongoing primaries.

Keep up the good work. And thanks for being the best.

[muad'dib]

UH OH! You can literally and I mean LITERALLY see what this is doing to the election. Ron Paul comes from out of nowhere and snatches 2nd in a primary. There is a toltal media blackout right now on RP and yet he continues to have better and better showings. That tells me one thing, the west side of this country actually thinks for themselves and all the other candidates just puckered up bigtime!
Watch everyone try and skim over this issue as the day progresses....hahaha

[Clayton]

Thank you for your excellent journalism.

[Paulunteer]

Thanks for the great coverage. The L.A. TImes is continuing to show great leadership in covering the best suppressed story in the country - the rising tide of political support for Ron Paul for President, a true Constitutionalist!

Go Ron Paul!
Go Andrew Malcolm!
Go L.A. Times (for now)!

[Evan Martin]

The six million wasn't an "online" fundraising record, it was an all-around fund-raising record: No politician has ever raised that much in a single day.
The next donation is in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King.

(Glad you added politician because Jerry Lewis' Telethon would argue about you breaking the all-time one day record.)

[Mark Rauterkus]

This is a surge that I can live with -- a Ron Paul surge. That is a surge for peace and freedom.

Let's hope that Romney and the others flame out soon. Otherwise, we are all toast.

Ron Paul won't flame out. Likewise, the US CONSTITUTION won't flame out either.

[Chip`]

Thanks for pointing out that Paul came in second in Nevada....and beat Giuliani once AGAIN.

The first time I heard Paul speak at the debate Paul has been a real candidate to me! Maybe others will get a clue now.

[Bill in Montgomery ....]

If Ron Paul "shocks the world" and wins this election - or, more likely, influences future candidates who laregely echo Dr. Paul's speeches - some kind of freedom medal needs to go to this blog, the only one that has noticed the eye-opening results of this longest-of-longshots and a true grassroots campaign.

It takes a little courage to go against the grain, and risk ridicule, to pay attention to someone who so many ridicule.

Plus, it IS a story - which Andrew (almost alone) has picked up on.

So thanks for pointing out what so many in your field have not.

Bill in Montgomery

[Joey]

"Paul, the only Republican to oppose the Iraq war and favor significant dismantling of the federal government"

This will be the key to the GOP having a change to win the white house. If the GOP wants to win the white house, they need to say anti-iraq-war and fix the economy. Ron Paul is both anti-iraq-war and able to fix the monetary issues with the economy. If the GOP really wants to keep the white house, the GOP will nominate Ron Paul.

[Joel Broen]

Wow, this is huge. Ron Paul in 2nd place. It is fun to watch CNN and MSNBC totally ignoring this victory (2nd place) for Dr. Paul. They both didn't put up their pie charts for Nevada on the Repbuplican side nor have they even spoken about it. That's okay, we will win despite them.

[Zak Carter]

My account as to how I, a neo-con veteran of Iraq and Kosovo, came to be an anti-war protester.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDZLK8xXBRw

[Joe]

Check out the picture of fox news listing 3 candidates - mitt john mike - while excluding ron paul.
http://people.ronpaul2008.com/campaign-updates/2008/01/19/fair-and-balanced/

Is there anyone who still thinks fox news has any credibility?

[Lars]

It seems to me that some of the candidates will drop out sooner rather than later and the one candidate standing for a very long time will be Ron Paul. It will be interesting!

If you want to make sure your future articles get noticed by the large group of Ron Paul followers and other people interested in the Ron Paul message you yourself can add a link to your future articles at www.WhatTheySayAboutRonPaul.com.

(Well, Duncan Hunter just did drop out.)

(FYI, Duncan Hunter just did drop out.)

[Joe]

>>>>Posted by: Duck Soup
>>>>Would love to hear your POV and hear your vote in who will bring
>>>> more change to America - Clinton or Obama.

Both clinton an obama will be great for bringing socialism to america.

[Lars]

It seems to me that some of the candidates will drop out sooner rather than later and the one candidate standing for a very long time will be Ron Paul. It will be interesting!

If you want to make sure your future articles get noticed by the large group of Ron Paul followers and other people interested in the Ron Paul message you yourself can add a link to your future articles at www.WhatTheySayAboutRonPaul.com.

[ponraul]

um wow he got like a few votes in a poorly attended caucus vs. romney, who got way more, in a poorly attended caucus. Funny how the party of George Bush and Dick Cheney keeps losing out like that. Wonder why?

still the fact that St. Rudy of 911 is getting his backside thoroughly kicked in EVERY SINGLE CAUCUS AND PRIMARY and it's Paul doing it with Romney, well that's great news.

I'd love to see if all the hype ends with paul winning a primary somewhere important though. And I can't help but notice that the democratic primaries and caucuses get WAY WAY more people than the party of President Bush and VP Cheney.

[Joe]

There you go again Andrew. Pointing out a 20 year old letter, in which, you know good and well Paul didn't write. I challenge you to bring one writing or air one clip of the Honorable Ron Paul that confirms your smear that he is a racist. You're a despicable piece of crap. You don't fool me for a minute. And I sure as hell will never buy the LA TIMES. Now go lick you're master’s boot!

(Joe, Joe, Joe, you're recycling your old rants. I have no way of knowing anything other than his name was on those old letters and he now says he didn't write them, both of which are stated here. Thanks for reading.)

[Roger]

People –

It is ironic that we are sending to undeclared wars by Congress thousands of our young man and women to Kill or be killed “to bring Democracy and freedom” as President Bush once says, while here at home we have a set of media and industries conglomerate behaving in ways that point to a different trajectory. These groups are following the trajectory that our founder’s fathers were against it, the trajectory they suffered from, the one they saw and felt and united them to bring about our beloved Constitution.

For the most part these conglomerate using sillies excuses acting like third world countries do during any governmental elections. One need to look next door elections (Mexico) as well as Venezuela just to mention a few to see the similarities. If you look at those two countries past elections you will see the same pattern of distortions and half-truth to those individuals they do not want to get any track while giving as much media cover to those they represent and want.(did someone says Fair and Balance?) it must be an illusion. May be that is why In venezuela one main Tv station GlobolVision was closed by the goverment not so long ago for portraying to be "Fair and Balance" during the Coup d'état.

One need to think What is going on in this country? Do the economy controllers think that the American people is so concern about their daily chores that we have actually become sheep just as Judge Napolitano latest book “A Nation of Sheep” explain?

There is so much the American people can take before the giant awakes, and that my friends is what is taking place, this and other important issues is resonating to the American people of all ages and they are being carry by Dr. Ron Paul message.
It is the common citizen that are awakening from all the noise that for so long has been dominating the political arena and the people in general feels disfranchised.

A concern of our present and future wellbeing is at stake and change is desperate WANTED. Use the power of your vote and voice to bring change not just to the executive but especially the legislative branch.

http://forpresidentronpaul.blogspot.com/

[politicalsanity]

It is very disturbing that there is very little being said today of what happened in Nevada-- they are talking about Clinton and Obama being close, with Edwards a distant 3rd place; but they just say that on the Republican side, Mitt Romney won. They don't say who won 2nd, 3rd,or 4th.
Instead, they look to what is happening in South Carolina.

It continues to look like a near-complete media blackout on any positive news about Ron Paul; your blog seems to be one of the VERY FEW places that will even mention his name, much less report on his campaign objectively.

Thanks for your unbiased coverage; you have been bookmarked into my browser as my lead newsblog. 8)

(That's good news. Thanks for reading. Hope you spread the word to others.)

[Maria]

Dear Mr. Malcolm,

I am a 43 year old married, mother of 2, who is a Ron Paul supporter, THANK YOU for a "fair and balanced" report.

I am also Latina and my husband is African American, our family and friends will continue to support Dr. Paul regardless of the assassination attempts on his character.

Thank you kindly.
peace

[NH]

To Duck Soup: Hussein Barack Obama is a big fat ZERO invention of the press.

Obama is just another CFR/NWO socialist and is NOT viable to anyone with a BRAIN.

Like Clinton, he's a racist to boot. Get a clue will you? RP supporters will never support either him or Hillary

[Glen]

The world supports Ron Paul. I am an Australian hoping Ron Paul gets a fair election and puts an end to the slaughter in Iraq.

See Ron Paul rLOVEution - POWER OF LOVE

[Oscar DeGrouch]

Ron Paul, President
Andrew Malcolm, Press Secretary.

(No thank you. Let's wait and see how you feel after you read some of the other Ron Paul items here or to come. I'm afraid we are equal opportunity offenders.)

[dylbro]

You state: "But in Nevada today with a poor Republican turnout of less than half the Democrats and with 98% of the precincts reporting, Romney had 22,390 votes, or 51%. Paul had about a quarter of that, 13%, or 5,802 votes."

These are real results:

Clinton 5,326 51% 12
Obama 4,739 45% 13
Edwards 394 4% 0
Uncommitted 31 0% 0
Kucinich 5 0% 0
Richardson 0 0% 0

Dem Total = 10495(98% reporting)

Romney 22,629 51% 18
Paul 6,077 14% 4
McCain 5,641 13% 4
Huckabee 3,607 8% 2
Thompson 3,518 8% 2
Giuliani 1,907 4% 1
Hunter 890 2% 0
Tancredo 0 0%

Republican total = 44260 (99% reporting)

Clearly showing a HUGE republican turnout of 4x that of the democrats.

Ron Paul vs Hillary vs Barrack

Paul 6,077
Clinton 5,326
Obama 4,739

This is the real story!!

[Joe]

Duck Soup! Obama something new. Give it a break. Obama is nothing more then a socialist fool. Don't even try and put your crap on a Paul thread. It will be a cold day in hell before a Paul supporter pulls the lever for the globalists new fool/tool. LMAO! Obama the CFR fool something refreshing! LMAO! Oh this stuff is funny!

[bridget pnzer]

Ron Paul rEVOLution! restore the constitution!

[Maria]

Dear DUCK SOUP,

"Would love to hear your POV and hear your vote in who will bring more change to America - Clinton or Obama."

NEITHER Obama nor Clinton will bring CHANGE. No matter how many times they say it. OBAMA TOP ADVISORS ARE BUSH/CLINTON STAFFERS AND CLINTON ADVISORS FORMER BILL ADVISORS. = NO CHANGE. Check out program below.

January 03, 2008
http://www.democracynow.org/2008/1/3/vote_for_change_atrocity_linked_us

Vote for Change? Atrocity-Linked U.S. Officials Advising Democratic, GOP Presidential Frontrunners
Independent journalist Allan Nairn and American Conservative correspondent Kelley Beaucar Vlahos discuss a little-addressed facet of the 2008 campaign: many of the top advisers to leading presidential candidates are ex-U.S. officials involved in atrocities around the world.

[Eric]

If Ron Paul is intelligent in his choice for running mate (Paul/Edwards, Paul/Obama, Paul/Thompson?), and his record campaign contributions continue, then I predict he will win the general election in 2008 and become the next President. His grassroots support is huge, his ideas and ideals are impeccable, and his appeal is universal. He speaks the truth, and will fight to make this country a better nation. I predict he will pick up a large percentage of undecided voters, and also pick up votes for candidates that don't win either nomination. Watch and learn. Ron Paul has my vote.

[Sharon]

Thank you for the fairly written article about Dr. Paul. Could you just imagine how many more people would vote for Ron Paul if he had some of the media coverage given to the other candidates. His message is clear and consistent and his voting record is exceptional. He is not afraid to speak the truth. He is not the most eloquent or charismic speaker, but what he says makes sense. He has cured my apathy. I love this quote from Ghandi, which applies to the situation with Ron Paul: "First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.”

[John]

Hey Andrew...I've been very critical of you and the LA Times before and I must say that your balanced reporting is coming along. With all the more positive comments and readership, your boss should consider giving you a raise. With that said, until I see Ron Paul in the LA Times with other "front runners" LA Times will always come short of good, balanced, reporting for the people.

[Jeanette Doney]

Ron Paul supporters appear to be such nice people. Look how they are so happy to just be number two. Imagine if Ron Paul won...well...then imagine if he was president. What a wonderful wonderful world it would be.
Yeee haw!!!

[Moose]

Here's one "surge" that'll actually work. ;)

[Daniel]

Take away the Mormon Vote and it would have been a close second.

(Take away any group of votes and the gap would have been different. So what?)

[Jay Straw]

Good article. Very good article. You even mentioned the results of Duncan Hunter--fantastic article.

(Thanks. Hope to see you back here. And now, tonight, Hunter has dropped out.)

[af90640]

"First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win." Keep up the support for Ron Paul!!!

[NutriaKing]

Thanks for the attention to Ron Paul who is generally ignored by the national media despite his steady progress. Being a Paul supporter, I must of course take issue with something in this article :-) and that is the comment that "Paul is likely to linger longer." I hardly call what Dr. Paul is doing "lingering". He has maintained consistently decent and improving primary results, while so many others have dropped out completely (Browback, Tancredo, Gilmore, Tommy Thompson) and consistently beaten Keyes and Hunter. He's beaten Fred Thompson and even Rudy Giuliani multiple times and by big margins. Only Romney, Huckabee, and McCain are competitive against Ron Paul now.

This 2nd place finish in Nevada should add momentum to his campaign as re-enthused supporters donate more money and new supporters come on board now that they see that "he can't win" is not true.

Giuliani primary results have been pitiful and he has no money to pay his staffers anymore, so he'll be dropping out soon. Huckabee won't do well except in the Bible belt. McCain, I believe, is also nearly out of money. So this leaves a weak McCain, Romney, and a cash-flush Ron Paul as the candidates that will keep moving forward. Lingering indeed!

[matt]

Thanks Andrew.

[NH]

Please get a clue! No RP supporter worth his or her salt would turn to OBAMA or Clinton!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

If they did it means they have no idea what RP Stands for.

[Steven]

Thanks for the article. I've been listening to Fox and CNN and MSNBC for an hour and haven't heard Paul's name.

Vote pro-freedom, vote pro-constitution, vote pro-life, vote pro-state's rights. Vote Ron Paul!

[Russ]

Ron Paul, why cannot people see that he is the only AMERICAN running?
Paul represents the values LOST in this country and our founding ideas.
Why are people so blinded by the major media, who has done everything to keep Paul from being taken seriously? Of course, it's the Israeli firsters and the
open door immigration and the broken rule of law that is now a rule of flaw.
We must somehow get this AMERICAN elected. Any other candidate is just a repeat of the old worn out destruction of everything American. Hillary and Obama, McCain and Julianus, are all worthless and have the agenda of another nation in mind. All others flip flop on the issues and will leave the doors open at the borders, continue to make war for Israel and continue to destroy America. Paul is the only choice for INTELLIGENT voters. Of course we see there is not intelligence left in America, if voting for Oboma and Clinton are indicators. But as long as the communist news network (CNN) can have their say or Foxxed up liar news, America will be deceived to vote for scoundrels. Way to go La Times, you seem to be fair, so I like that. Isn't that what America is all about after all? Keep reporting in an unbiased way and we will keep reading La Times.

[Herbert]

I thought that Romney is a Washington lobbyist's tool...

And just how many Great-Grandmothers does he have?

[Trent G.]

First comment: WOW, look at all the comments! When did you post this Andrew?

Second comment: Andrew, your blog keeps appearing in my browser (I am always scouring for RP articles). I am becoming a regular around here. Thank you for bringing a fresh perspective from your desk at LAT. I appreciate your views, as it is rare to find a read that is fact based and not biased or filled with the regular recycled rhetoric.

(Well, we're delighted that you've become a regular and hope you help spread the word to others about our blog. The article was posted at the time in the bottom left corner, earlier this afternoon when the near-final results became clear.)

[Scott from Oregon]

The real story is that Ron Paul came in second while SWIMMING UPSTREAM against the media and the regular GOP.

Like his views or not, you have to give him and his supporters their due for beating down EVERYBODY and making it this far.

Ron Paul has been a bright light in the whole process regardless of his current standings. The media has been shown for what they are. The old school GOP as well. America is looking under the nooks and crannies of its own self because of Ron Paul, and the vermin are showing up everywhere.

[NH]

Eric grow up...NONE of your suggestions for VP are any good -- that would mean Dr P sold out...then we would not support him.

ALL of your suggestions are CFR shills.

[Another Perspective]

I am not a Ron Paul supporter, but I think the larger story here is that the Main Stream Media IS blocking (blackballing?) a very popular candidate.

(Well, not here anyway. Welcome to Top of the Ticket.)

[JIVEWIRE]

Andrew Malcolm is a fair journalist who is objective. Thanks for having integrity.

RON PAUL for the LONG HAUL!

DONATE Martin Luther King Day Jan 21st!!!

[chere]

Thank you for the great article. CONGRATS to RON PAUL, CHAMPION OF THE CONSTITUTION!! Here's my Mark Twain quote about Ron Paul:

"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."

Come Nov.2008 [3VOL] will be sworn in, & "We the People" have his back, from the WHITE HOUSE door to the CONGRESS FLOOR. Some have said that RP has tapped into the peoples frustration, But I think RP has tapped into the peoples HOPES. Desperation did NOT lead us to RP but INSPIRATION was our guide.

[Roberta]

Thanks you so much for this fair assessment of the Nevada primaries. I was monitoring the vote on 3 different sits and reporting to the blog on RonPaul2008.com. Let me tell you we were all jumping for joy and cursing the MSM for not mentioning Dr. Paul at all. At least you have given him a break and I appreciate it.

[Sam]

Thank you Andrew Malcolm for this article. Despite Ron Paul's second place finish in Nevada, the mainstream media refuses to talk about it or give him any air time. I commend you for your journalism.

[thetent.com]

AMERICA.
DO YOUR COUNTRY A FAVOR AND LOOK INTO RON PAUL

GOOGLE RON PAUL

[Julia]

Thank you for the honest and factual reporting. Congressman Paul is going the long run, which may change things quite a bit. He is against Nafta/Gatt and managed trade policies that have done a number on this nation, for protecting the borders, ending the unbelievably unsustainable military budget, which in this age and economy will surely help to sink this nation. He is for a strong, safe America. He served
on the Senate banking committee, actually reads all the legislation that comes before him and knows the true state of America. You will not hear him tell the American people what they necessarily want to hear, but what is desperately important for them to hear. Romney wants to increase troops by l00,000. Will it be your child included in that number? McCain is willing to commit America to a hundred years in Iraq, a nation that NEVER attacked us.
Hillary is talking gifts in a time where this nation is economically ready to sink, thanks to her globalist husband passing the Nafta/Gatt treaties. No wonder America needs healthcare! They need jobs too because of that! We need
our country back from the hands of these globalists and warmongers.
Ron Paul loves America and so do I. I will go with the one man who has
the most experience and the record of truth in what he says, backed up by years and years of voting records. I don't believe what politicians say in a race, I look into their records. That's why I am for Congressman Ron Paul.
Don't believe what they say about his followers either. Everyone I have met
are good, intelligent, thinking individuals that are supporting him and Congressman Paul is one of the most moral, thoughtful, humble and brave candidate
I'll ever see probably in my lifetime. He loves the constitution and so do many of us.

[George]

I really hope Ron Paul wins this thing. He's a refreshing change for this country. You know, instead of this so called 150 million dollar "stimulus" package that the current president wants to stimulate the economy with, why not just get rid of the income tax like Ron Paul wants to?? Talk about a stimulus! That would be about a 30-35% pay increase for everyone! That would definitely stimulate the economy!!

I'm voting for you Ron!

[jeff carruthers]

good job and thanks for the info. I will pass your name and paper along to others. I apologize for the few that run you in the dirt. At least you went against the main stream... as one mentioned earlier, we are frustrated at the media coverage....thanks again

(Thanks for spreading the word about Top of the Ticket.)

[Cynthai]

Thank you for the article Andrew! Ron Paul is the only candidate that will abide by the Constitution and the Bill of Rights which gives Americans their freedom in this country. He has a ten term track record of this for anybody that chooses to investigate. Paul is the Jefferson of our times. Dr. Paul is a amazing man that understands economic fiscal responsibility and wants to remove all unConstitutional bogus government agencies and give more money back to hard working Americans! Go Ron Paul!!!!!!

[Larry]

Thanks for noticing what I consider a victory in Ron Paul's campaign today. Funny how Fox news, nor CNN seemed not to notice. Maybe they'll notice tomorrow when Ron Paul breaks another online one day fund raising record. This is just the beginning! Ron Paul For President!!!!!!

[Scott]

Posted by Duck Soup:
"RP has tapped into something. People want the truth. They are tired of old style politics. Too bad RP is not viable. "

"Would love to hear your POV and hear your vote in who will bring more change to America - Clinton or Obama."

Here's my POV Duck Soup; Ron Paul is viable, very viable. And as far as Clinton or Obama, neither or bad change. But we'll take Obama as a running mate to beat Hillary, and Barack can learn from Ron Paul how to lead after his tenure, how's that?

[Kim Eisenhuth]

Great article and a great result in Nevada!! Go Ron Paul!!

[Paul Reszel]

Lincoln was caricaturized by the papers of his time as an ugly backwoods gorilla
and Ron Paul was insulted by an arrogant debate moniter about his "electability"--- because he was ENTIERELY DIFFERENT from the rest of the candidates.

I think he inadvertently hit on the answer to his question.
THAT is why people are attracted to principled Ron Paul --
-He is different from the smooth talkers. - who want to further lead America down the same path that has led too our Day of Reckoning .
The Gettysburg address lives on --not the two hour oration by the many words of Edward Everett. - and voters will forget the slick words of the machine candidates
Thank you for noticing a great patriot in the mold of our fighting forefathers

[bkusz]

Nevada and Las Vegas best represents capitalism and social tolerance which seems to be a underlying Paul message. Now had Paul been a Mormon with a few more million, he would have pulled a 1st.

[Kevin Cain]

Andrew,
A very enjoyable article that proved to be the best news I have had all day. I spent the afternoon canvassing my neighborhood for Dr. Paul without much success. It will be interesting to see how it plays out once other "top tier" contenders drop out and he continues to campaign for the GOP nomination. At that point the playing field will be leveled.
This is the first primary that I have participated in and regardless of the outcome of Dr. Paul's campaign, my eyes have been opened to the horror that is our financial future as a country. There are the seeds of a revolution being sown with more common men and women joining our ranks everyday.
The common paraphrase of Admiral Farragut comes to mind who, upon entering Mobile Bay in August of 1864 exclaimed, "Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!"

[t quigly]

Andrew: Ron Paul's "...fourth quarter, raising nearly $20 million, and his website reports gathering in another $1.34 million so far this month."

And the 'Free At Last' moneybomb on Monday, 1/21 - Dr. Martin Luther King holiday, '
And the 'Ron Paul Tax Free Money Bomb!' on 4/17[?] when Ron Paul supporters donate their alleged $600 Duuuhbya tax refund to the Ron Paul campaign [see the Ron Paul Waroom, 'President Bush To Donate Millions To Paul Campaign' posting].

Ron Paul for the long haul !!
The times they are a changin'

[josh]

why cant we win we always come in 2nd but im sure we will win california and VA anyway

[D. M. Radtke]

Thank you Andrew
At last an honest reporter covering an honest man in the race!

[Rob]

Andrew,

I don't know what to think of you, at the moment...Is your recent change of heart concerning your coverage of RP...more "if you can't beat 'em, then join 'em." Or are you just "playing" all of us Paulites out there like the Pied Piper, as you sit back and watch our mood swings with your every article?

Exactly what are your intentions Sir? !

But not to knock you too hard, I thank you for the honest reporting, very hard to find these days, as you know....

So Go Ron Paul
and GO Andrew Malcolm, thank you

(Just doing our job, Rob. Telling the truth in our way and sometimes you like it and sometimes you don't. But this forum is always open to comment one way or the other. Thanks for reading and hope you spread the word about us.)

[John C. Randolph]

"Who is Mitt Romney?"

He's an empty-suit venture capitalist who pretends to be able to run a business.

-jcr

[letma]

Andrew admit it you have seen the light.. haven't you?

Its OK. Freedom is good. There is nothing wrong with understanding the importance of the Ron Paul candidacy and you are a better journalist for it.

Feels good doesn't it?

[Mike]

Wake up America the Revolution is here! Smaller government, less war, more money in our pocket, better education, all of this can be yours for the low low price of one vote. Or, you can keep on buying into the lies and broken promise's of the other phony candidate's who are actually nothing more than salesmen. Ron Paul is the ONLY genuine candidate who is really for the people!

Thanks for the article.

[Mike]

Overall, Ron Paul is in fourth... http://truthalert.net/Republican%20Presidential%20Candidate%20Rankings.htm

Thompson and Giuliani wish they were doing as well.

[Jason]

this country needs Ron Paul. When will the voters across the country wake up and stop listening to candidates who talk about change when someone like Ron Paul will make changes. He needs our help in making people know who the right choice is, so please spread the word.

[Milton Eisenbies]

Thanks for reporting RP results.. Go RP!!!!!

[david loftis]

Mr. Malcolm,
thanks so must for this Ron Paul story! Its about time he gets some press! Clearly people in general are some ill informed on whats actually going on in this country...very sad indeed. They get taken in by catch pharses, rallying around the flag ( hitler used this one), ignoring all that the corporatocracy as done over the past 50 yrs. and beyond. How many elected officials in other countries has the cia killed because they wouldn't give away their countries resources? Not to mention the civilians killed, ie, panama ( 2-3 thousand) to get one man for not going back on the canal treaty... that we came up with!totally illegal invasion of a country, to get a guy breaking U.S. laws... in his country! On and on!!! educate yourself people then vote... for4 Ron Paul!!

[NFaye]

I am celebrating Romney's solid wins in Nevada and Wyoming and Michigan. He is an awesome candidate who has solid support all across the west! Here are a few reasons I think Romney is the best candidate: Romney has the economic expertise we need. He has turned failing companies into productive, profitable businesses. Romney knows how to create and hold jobs! He has a history of asking the right questions, listening intently, analyzing and evaluating carefully, and LEADING in strength. Romney will bring new vision, fresh voices, robust energy, and efficiency to Washington. Romney will bring integrity, respect, and dignity to the office of President.
Romney is a family man of high standards who has personally lived conservative social values all his life. He is absolutely trustworthy. An intelligent vote is a vote for Romney!

[resimc]

I wish if the rest of the country can ee what the 13& of nevada voters (who vote for Ron Paul) see.
He is a man of honour, integrity.
We would like the media to report more on him.
Thanx for the writer of his article.
Go Ron Paul.

[Dan]

Andrew Malcolm - true patriot or god among journalists?

[Jeremy]

I think L.A. Times has got to be the most objective voice I've heard throughout this entire caucus. Huge props for not shutting out the underdog...America loves an underdog!

[craig seganti]

Yeah, but we Paul supporters are not familiar with reporters 'just doing their job'.

[Travis]

Great article. I think Ron Paul is going to do really well here in California. I was watching ABC News' coverage of the Nevada caucus. The only time they really talked about Ron Paul was when they interviewed some prostitutes who supported him. These professional journalists are professional smear artists. What a joke.

[Thomas Braun]

Great JOB all you Ron Paul LOVERS!!! KEEP IT UP! Now is the time to SHAKE THIS LAND!!!

Oh and Andrew Malcolm as Ron Paul's vice president is a ticket we can all be proud of!!

Thanks LA TIMES!

RUN RON RUN!!!!

[Gena]

Good going, Ron Paul!

To 'Manual Labor': We might be sounding like whiners to you, but we have our reasons! We are not making this up! The media really *IS* censoring him as much as they can (get away with)!!

Just LOOK!:

http://politics.nytimes.com/election-guide/2008/results/index.html

That pisses me off!! >>:((
What Bull!!

[Bob]

I for one will be calling the headquarters of the msm outlets numerous times on monday to calmly inform them of how to pronounce RON PAUL.

[Andrew]

Thanks for the reminder that there are still some Republicans left who oppose the war and favor protecting civil liberties. I personally left the party (former YR State Treasurer) and became a Libertarian (big "L") when the religious right took over. But Dr. Paul helps me believe that all is not lost for the GOP.

[Claus Nielsen]

Nice article, keep it up
(maybe even do more, remember there was a time when 2 men
with a typewriter made a big difference in America
- not anymore, other vice Bush would have been chased out of office long ago)

Anyway, - I'm from Denmark,
and I can't begin to tell you how much hope, this revolution is giving me..
The first time I heard Ron Paul speak, I was choked!
I mean his honesty, is like a silent scream,
why can't every American hear it - and see that he's special...

As I said I'm from Denmark, one of they few countries that was "permitted"
to vote on the European union, and we rejected it..
The government chanced the wording a little, had a new referendum
and it passed, but whit out the adoption of the Euro..
Now they are more desperate and are pushing it again,
whit out an referendum, and no one objects.. we to are also failing asleep..
So please, help us wake up!

Take Ron Paul to the white house, chase they owners of the federal reserve into the sea
- they are European anyway (but not welcome),
shut down they North American Union, burn the National ID Card,
stop torture, stop the war on drugs, stop the fear and warmongering,
end the war, and prevent an unjust war in Iran, but most of all,
go get your rights back, all of them...
And you may ones again become they moral leaders of the world...

[Ty - Colorado Springs, Co.]

Mr. Malcolm,

I'd like to thank you for what has to be the first, accurate and unbiased article I've read concerning Congressman Ron Paul and his bid for the white house. You, Sir, are a true newsman. Hopefully you'll still have a job tomorrow as the rest of the news media seems hell bent on blacking out Ron Paul and slapping around anyone who doesn't fall in step with them.

[Jeugenen]

RON PAUL RINGS IN THE DAWN OF THE AMERICAN REFORMATION AND END OF THE ERA OF THE UGLY AMERICAN

This Ron Paul Libertarian rebellion is an escalation and re-orientation of the American Cultural War, by the American People, against the rising governmental tyranny by Neo-Con Republicans and Neo-Lib Democrats.

It is sweeping across America like a wildfire, ignited by the illegal and unnecessary invasion of Iraq. It raises many crucial questions, such as:

Where does the American Constitution give my government the right to sacrifice precious American wealth and blood, in interests of domestic and foreign lobbies?

Where does the American Constitution give my government the right to allow my nation to be invaded and permanently occupied by illegal aliens?

Where does the American Constitution give my government the right to support the sacrificial killing of children, by their own mothers?

Where does the American Constitution give my government the right to support discrimination against traditional religious practices in public schools, universities, marriage institutions, armed forces, and governmental offices?

This creeping governmental tyranny, driven by culturally subversive Neo-Con and Neo-Lib minority interests, has now been going on for so many decades that the impending American Reformation is regarded with fear and loathing, by those who are to lose their illicit social and economic gains.

Like Gandhi, Ron Paul is drawing his intrepid volunteers from the full spectrum of humanity; and World is cheering him on to victory.

[Fred]

Hear the rumbling? Hear the boots marching? The Ron Paul Revolution is not slowing down. If you are a Patriot and are worried about where our Country is headed contact and donate to Ron Paul on Monday 1-21-08. Let's take our country back!

[Jeugenen]

RON PAUL FEAR AND LOATHING EXPOSES NEO-CON AND NEO-LIB HATE-BAITERS

In the American Cultural War, the antagonists can be conveniently divided into two broad categories: citizens who are the American People, and citizens who are consumed with fear and loathing of the American People.

As the Ron Paul Rebellion relentlessly advances across America like wildfire, the screams of the damned, Neo-Cons and Neo-Libs, grow louder; especially those of the hate-baiters swarming out of their closets, exposing themselves to the scrutiny of the World: the racist-baiters, anti-Semite baiters, Nazi-baiters, homophobe-baiters, xenophobe-baiters, theocracy-baiters, fascist-baiters, and insane-baiters; those growing cancerous elements that have done so much to give the American People their Ugly American reputation; and to manifest America’s long overdue need for a healthy rebellion, to preserve her sacred Constitution against increasingly dangerous social and economic governmental tyranny; and subversive control over American foreign policies by the bloody China, Mexico, and Israel lobbies.

Amazingly, the entire World knows exactly what is going on; and is cheering for Ron Paul and his rebel army.

Google: Who Would the World Elect; Mearsheimer Israel Lobby and US Foreign Policy; Stricherz Why the Democrats are Blue

[Bob Bowen]

Last week I cancelled my 28-year-old subscription to my local newspaper because they wouldn't print my Letter to the Editor (Dec 22nd) about their muzzling of Ron Paul news. Then they finally reported the fact that Ron Paul raised the $6million on the 16th, but headlined the article with a most unflattering photo of Dr. Paul and proceeded to print about three columns of negatives about his campaign. So I responded to that poor journalism and they changed two words in my letter which proceeded to give my letter a negative spin and distract any potential readers. Now I actually see something in this blog that reports fairly about Ron Paul's candidacy, so I have bookmarked your blog for future visits. I may have to join a friend of mine and take a closer look at the Los Angeles Times. I live on the High Desert between Victorville and Barstow and we have a fast growing Ron Paul Meetup Group that is going to give it our best shot to get Ron Paul's message out there and hope it can turn into some precinct victories on February 5th. Thanks Andrew for reporting the truth. I will be back.

[R]

Stop saying he's not viable. Viability depends on how many votes he gets. If you want him to run the country, just vote. Its as simple as that. Just vote.

[Jose Luis]

I'm hooked on LA Times. A complete media blackout on Ron Paul. I had to refer some of my friends to Andrew's Blog because my friends had no idea from the mainstream media that Ron Paul had come into second in Nevada. I have never donated to a polical campaign in my life but I am now. The next money bomb for Ron Paul on Monday will be my first. I wish I could stop being dissapointed when I see CNN/Fox News intentionally bypass any positive news about Ron Paul in an effort to keep his message silent. It is going to take all us to make this happen.

[Justin]

Maybe Ron Paul can hook up with Ross Perot as his VP and Ross can spend some money to get the word out.

The problem is that Paul's campaign staff does not know how to manage a campaign and generate publicity. They also do not know how to help Paul deliver winning answers that resonate with the public. This is the problem.

Justin

[tim]

Special thanks to the LAT for this artical. Question is: do the same stories get published in print by the LAT? Considering the beatdown intentional blackout of Ron Paul by the MSM we did fantistic in Nevada. A very special Thank-You from Minnesota to every Ron Paul voter in Nevada. great job!

(Every Sunday a few blog excerpts are printed in the newspaper. But this is the brave new free world of online. So we're on our own. I like that all of our articles are here forever to be read anytime a reader wants, while the newspaper is gone by tomorrow. Thanks for visiting. Hope you come back often--and tell your friends about us.)

[Tom J]

I just want to see Ron Paul at all of the debates, talking about the Iraq War, foreign policy and the economy. I hope his second-place finish helps achieve that.

[Bill]

With enough 2-4 place finishes, and staying in for the long haul as other's drop out, he could walk into a brokered GOP convention with the enough delegates to create quite an impact.

Make no mistake, the GOP candidate will be brokered at the convention, and Ron Paul could have a lot of delegates in hand.

The Nevada results are straw poll results, but a lot of Romney's supporters never registered as delegates. Ron Paul's did. So it's a media victory for Romney, but what about the convention?

Ron Paul is crazy like a fox. I will kick in some money on MLK day, just to see how bad the MSM wants to stop him.

[Tom Mead]

Happy to see Ron Paul get some exposure from the mainstream press (though I doubt this article will appear on A-1 tomorrow). Republicans will have to choose between a vote-winner (McCain) and a philisophical winner (Dr. Paul).

I know who they will pick, but at least Dr.Paul will be around until summer to keep the debates interesting.

It will take another 10 years before the Party is truly ready for a revolution.

(Of course this article will not be in the newspaper. This is an online blog. To be honest, with our growth in readership probably more people will read it here than might in the newspaper. So be happy.)

[Voter]

Great to see Ron Paul move on up in the polls

[Mike Klamecki]

I think the Republican party should consider "those passionate and tireless supporters" that Ron Paul has. Do they think that in the end they will end up voting for whoever the Republicans put up? Think again. Those who have voted Republican in the past, that are now Ron Paul supporters, will not vote for any of the Republicrats that are running. Thus, the Republicans will lose in November unless Ron Paul is the candidate. I feel that this is the end of the Republican party unless they wake up soon.

[dianna]

I HOPE MILLIONS OF AMERICANS, NO MATER WHAT COLOR OR CREED YOU MAY BE OR BELIEVE IN , WILL EMBRACE A REAL CHANGE FOR THE GOOD OF ALL PEOPLE IN OUR GREAT COUNTRY....RON PAUL TRULY UPHOLDS THE VALUES OF OUR FOUNDING FATHERS, AND WANTS TO SEE OUR NATION SURVIVE THESE CRITICAL TIMES OF ON-GOING CORRUPTION AND GREED.

[J Fox]

Mitt Romney is a globalist as evidenced by his membership in the Council for Foreign Relations (CFR).

Folks, this is not a game. It's Dr. Ron Paul as President or the New World Order/Empire/US imperial hubris. Face it. Sober up.

Mitt Romney is a globalist.

[Pauline]

Duck Soup: I hear you! My primary vote will be cast for Ron Paul, however I am currently campaigning for Obama because I do not wish to see a Clinton White House. Gheez! Being a citizen of our times is so complicated....

[matt steward]

RON PAUL REVOLUTION freewebs.com/ronaldpaul

[Phil Nunemacher]

As a recently elected Ron Paul delegate to the county convention in March, I can tell you that the 4 delegates from Nevada is the minimum he will get at the national convention. Based upon the other Paul delegates from my precinct I predict that he will get more like 10 to 12 delegates from Nevada at the national convention.

[P Campbell]

Duck Soup asks Ron Paul's supporters who would bring about more change, Clinton or Obama. My answer would be that Clinton & Obama would govern in a very similar manner, though Obama certainly has a more attractive personality than Clinton.

The question misses the point to Paul's support. The majority of Paulites less about change for the sake of change and more about a return to the principles this country was founded on, especially limiting the federal government's control over all aspects of our lives--something neither Clinton nor Obama offers.

[Chuck]

Nice to see a major media outlet giving some attention to Ron Paul! :)

[japattison]

Ron Paul, Are you Electable Sir?

This question came from a croaking neck that I saw on YouTube.

Well, I guess I can answer that! A resounding YES! The Nevada caucuses answered that. A resounding YES! He has more primary votes than Ghuliani and Thompson, who are supposed to be front runners. He IS electable. All it takes now is for the timid to come out of their closets and show their faces in November. No man, or woman, is electable if the people do not vote. Staying at home and hoping that your neighbor will vote for Ron Paul in your stead isn't the answer. That's how we ended up with Presidents like Bill Clinton and Geo. W. Bush. You've got to get up off your dead -- and go vote for him yourself!
Yes Andrew, Ron Paul is a strict Constitutionalist (That's something that Romney, McCain, Huckleberry, Obama, and Clinton and the rest of those Neo-Cons will never be able to claim!), and this country first elected Strict Constitutionalists - Washington, Jefferson, Madison, Adams (2 of them), to name a few. He is in good company. His supporters come from both sides of the aisle as well as the center - conservatives, liberals, moderates, libertarians, and socialists. His supporters include such diverse backgrounds as pimps and whores, lawyers, priests, preachers, Silicon Valley Geeks, Texas Millionaires, Nazi's, College Students, Blacks, Whites, Asians, Hispanics, Natives, Jews, Christians, Athiests, Moslems, Hindus, active duty Military and retirees.

Not to mention all of us that just consider ourselves as "regular Joe's" that remember what we were taught in High School about the Constitution being the Law of the land, and the Bill of Rights NEVER being infringed upon by such idiotic 'laws' as the un"Patriot Act," which is out to make patriots the terrorists,and the land-grabbing, slum-lording, employment-reducing factory and industry closers like Mitt Romney, John McCain, Mike Huckleberry, Barack Obama, John Edwards and Billary Clinton the heros.

We Ron Paul supporters may sound like a rabid bunch, but we are all patriots through and through with one goal, to take our country back from the globalists. Once again, the Constitution has to be recognized as the Supreme Law of the Land. If the Neo-Cons want to change the Constitution, there's a process for that ... it's called a Constitutional Amendment, not the un'Patriot Act.'. We can only do that if we stop these useless wars of occupation for the oil maggots, bring ALL of our troops home, abolish the income tax, the Federal Reserve and foreign aid. We need a man in the Presidential office who will stop the invasion of illegal aliens from both the north, the south, the former Soviet Union and Europe. End our participation in Nafta, Cafta, WHO, the UN, North American Union with their Trans-Texas Corridor, and everything else that threatens our sovereignty, and put the power back into the hands of the people, and not the politicians who have their hands into the lobbyist cookie jar from the time they get elected to the time they retire. Andrew, I invite you to Google the North American Union, and the Trans-Texas Corridor, and report on it just as honestly as you have reported on Ron Paul's 2nd place Victory in the Nevada Caucuses. If it isn't Constitutional, Ron Paul aims to prevent it if he can, I'm with him and the people are with him!

Ron Paul said it best when he said (I paraphrase) "It isn't about Ron Paul, it can't be about the man .... it's about the message, the message of Freedom."

Montanans for Freedom and Ron Paul!

Thanks Andrew Malcom for getting it right. A journalist is supposed to be just that, not ignore the news, but report the news. You have a new fan .... you are bookmarked for reference every day, ..... I will spread the word about your blog!!!

[GottaSay]

Gotta Say, You Go LA Times! If it weren't for you and a few others no one would even know Ron Paul was running for president.

Go LA
Go Ron Paul

[Sir Peter Codrington]

As a frequent visitor to the US and a British citizen I have been completely captured by the Dr Paul phenomenon. Although I have some reservations, in general, he is absolutely on the mark. Respect for your constitution as written and to be interpreted as intended by the founding fathers. Half a million US troops deployed around the globe should come home unless specifically requested by a foreign government, who are prepared to bare the cost and burden (except for paying their salaries) for their continued presence. It is sad that the general media have ignored Ron Paul almost completely, his message may not be main stream, however it appears to be dear to many Americans hearts and so it should be. I say go for it Dr Paul and your supporters

[Paul Boulanger]

I am forever amazed when someone states that a candidate is "not viable" or "not going to win so I won't vote for him". Voting is not like betting on a horse race where you benefit by picking the winner. Voting is a chance for your voice to be heard. Our founders paid for that right with the blood of our first patriots. I am voting for Ron Paul, the candidate who I most respect and desire to lead this country. Whether he wins or loses, I can sleep well at night knowing that I did not compromise my principles.

[Terrell Richardson]

Thanks for showing love to Ron Paul. I can't stand the mainstream media. This should've been top news on all the outlets. But they only mention "pretty boy" winning

Duck,
You really don't get it. Dems and Repubs now days are the opposite side of the same coin taking this country down the drain. Many Ron Paul supporters know this and stand by him steadfast realizing that it is more important to