He raised almost $4 million over the Internet without spending so much as a thin dime (beyond transaction fees, of course). This sort of thing just isn't done - usually you spend between fifty and eighty cents for every dollar you raise.
So why did that happen? Ron Paul has a face for radio. His voice isn't pleasant. He's not great in debates. How is it, then, that he raised so much money so effortlessly?
Because his libertarian ideas are that appealing, and he's the only one out there voicing them.
Let me put this another way. A lot of people probably support Rudy or Mitt because of who they are, but the cult of personality only goes so far.
Ron Paul is an obscure legislator. He's no reknowned leader. But his appeal is in his ideas. And on that merit alone, he netted "the largest Internet fundraising day in U.S. history. [He] attracted 40,000 donors who gave about $98 on average."
His supporters are fervent, that's for sure. I saw that at the Iowa Straw Poll when I was there. I used to laugh about this guy because I thought he had no chance in hell, but frankly, if he's gaining traction with money so easily, then it's worth knowing why.
ETC: Pale Rider rides in with an interesting message to all Ron Paul supporters.
I've taken a look at Ron's positions now on his web site. More about that later.
Looking at Paul's website I'm actually in agreement in some way on everything but his foreign policy. Are those donating to him focused on what they are being told or do they form an opinion based on other influences? Such as debate performance?
I have to say I loved your link to Vodkapundit back in October. Cheers to anyone who makes more sense blogging while drunk than any of the main stream media (and was funny as hell).
I've looked at the clips of the debate, his comments on foreign policy, clips of his dialog with the 9/11 truther idiots, and various articles.
I don't know if I should reserve this quote from the movie Billy Madison for RP's debate comments on Iran having nukes or for Hillary's response when asked about Elliot Spitzer's plan to give illegals drivers licenses.
"What you've just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul."
Oh what I'd give to listen to a moderator respond with that the next time someone completely misses the boat with a response.
