Paul is a Constitutionalist, who does not believe in voting for anything that is not authorized by the constitution. As a result, he has consistently voted against prickly issues such as the military escalation in Iraq, or federal spending. He has stuck to his pledge of never voting for increase in taxes and advocated abolishing federal income tax. In fact, it his voting record that has earned him the title of Dr. No.

As a qualified obstetrician, Paul believes life begins at conception and maintains a pro-life stand. Nevertheless, he believes decisions regarding maternal and fetal health should be taken at the state level, and that federal bans infringe upon the rights of the states to make laws.

Paul is loyal to the creed of principled libertarianism, with its firm belief in a smaller, less intrusive system of government that would enable citizens to live and seek fulfillment according to their choice. His call for constitutionally limited government has been well received. The views he holds may be working in Pauls favor. At a time when there is a perceivable shift in trend towards a libertarian ethos, Pauls candidature seems to be sending the right signals.

Ron Paul is 10th-term Republican United States congressman from Lake Jackson, Texas. Paul has been described as a conservative, a constitutionalist, and a libertarian.

Written by Emma Johnson

Emmy Johnson has majored in American History. She writes on politics and current affairs.