Ron Paul Will Never Win in 2012, But Why Is He So Popular?

Impact

I find the massive following Rep. Ron Paul (R-Texas) has be the most interesting phenomenon in politics today.

He definitely has the most loyal, passionate, and actively involved fan base of any politician in America. His supporters make their presence felt in every online poll, forum, and blog. They make their voices heard at rallies, town halls, and debates. I bet he’s even got more fans on PolicyMic than any other politician, including Obama. His influence and appeal among the millennial generation is unquestionably strong and they defend his stances and views harder than any other supporters I know.

Yet come every election year when he runs for president, he never wins a single state. In both 2008 and 2012, he’s yet to obtain a majority in any primary. Polls have also shown his support significantly lowers the older the age group is (ironic, considering he’s 76). 

I have my theories, but I’d like to get the PolicyMic community’s thoughts (particularly from his fans) on these questions: How come Ron Paul never wins a single state in a presidential election?

Is it a generational thing?

Will his views have any chance of becoming mainstream in the future? Or are they simply too dangerous, impractical, and out of touch with most Americans?

Photo Credit: DJotaku