Several hundred people rose early in support of Republican Presidential hopeful Dr. Ron Paul as he addressed the USM and Portland communities Monday morning at USM’s Abromson Center.
Flyers bearing Paul’s face and his slogan “The Doctor is in” plastered the walls outside the Hannaford Lecture Hall in the event hosted by the USM College Republicans.
Paul is the first Republican Presidential candidate to speak in Maine before the Republican caucuses, having chosen USM in recognition that Portland is one of the bigger cities in northern New England.
“We welcome speakers on campus who reflect Republican Party values,” said USM College Republican member Jason Lavoie. He adds however, “it is the policy of the College Republicans not to endorse a candidate in the primaries.”
The College Democrats as well were welcoming of Ron Paul’s visit.
“We believe that democracy should be open to all points of view,” said Elizabeth Trask, chair of the College Democrats. “Events such as these can enable students at USM to become more informed about the candidates, bring about discussion and debate, and it helps students figure out who they will support in the upcoming election.”
Lavoie recognizes that Paul does not stick to the party line as much as some other candidates. “He is a Republican, but definitely a little more Libertarian than most,” said Lavoie, referring to Paul’s advocacy of individual, rather that governmental, responsibility.
The Republican Congressman from Texas, often marginalized by mainstream media for his non-interventionist foreign policy and characterization as a libertarian, took a frank and humble tone while addressing those gathered.
“A strong national defense does not mean you support every militaristic action around the world,” Paul said, adding that his own foreign policy is to “bring the troops home.”
As the only Republican candidate who does not support current U.S. involvement in Iraq, Paul has seemed to find his niche in moderate and conservative college students to whom his policy of limited government and personal liberty resonate.
In addition to being opposed to foreign involvement, Paul advocates ending the federal income tax and reducing government spending by getting rid of most federal agencies. He opposes the Patriot Act and gun control.
Paul supports a strict interpretation of the Constitution, and does not believe in any government action-economic, militaristic, or otherwise-that is not directly outlined in the document. ” We need a lot more respect for the Constitution.” Paul said.
In regards to abortion issues, which Lavoie says is one of the most important political issues of our time, Paul is pro-life. However, in following with his opposition of governmental action, he opposes federal laws regulating or banning abortion.
In his speech on campus last week, Paul addressed many of these issues.
Though currently holding about 5 percent of the vote in the Republican Presidential race, Paul says he is encouraged by local media support and the vigilant efforts of grass-roots support.
Last November, Paul’s campaign had a one-day; Internet based fundraising drive that raised $4.3 million for his campaign, one of the most successful grass-root fundraising efforts in political history.
“They are not kidding when they say Google Ron Paul,” said one supporter during a brief Q&A session with the presidential hopeful, “it’s the only place I can find you.”
Mike Faiella, Paul’s New Hampshire Coalition organizer, recognizes the democratization of the media through the Internet as an important tool for politicians like Ron Paul.
Faiella cites last year’s YouTube-CNN Presidential debate as a great indicator of an alternative voice getting a chance, although he admits the event had it shortcomings.
“It was not a truly independent debate, since it was broadcast by CNN, but it’s a great idea.”
Paul’s strong belief in personal liberty helps his appeal transcend political parties.
Dylan Roberts, a Portland resident and ardent Ron Paul supporter, sees this as a great way for a 72-year-old doctor from Texas to appeal to college students. “This campaign has shown that there is no typical Ron Paul supporter.” Roberts said, “People who didn’t even know that they were Republican or Libertarian are drawn to Ron Paul.”
“He speaks logic and common sense effortlessly,” said Teryn Yudaken, a freshman media studies major who introduced Ron Paul at the event. She also admitted that “Dr. Paul cured my apathy.”
Paul made it clear during his speech that if he does not receive the Republican nomination for President, he will not jump ship and make a run at the White House as an Independent.
For information on the results of the Maine Republican caucuses, which were held last weekend, visit mainegop.com.