People in the news

Ron Paul (R-Texas)

U.S. Representative (since January 1997)

(Congressional Bio Database)

Why He Matters

Paul is not, nor has he ever been, a Republican leader in the House. When he ran for president in 2008, he lost every single Republican primary. For nearly a decade, he wasn't even a member of the GOP.

But a combination of timing, technology and four decades of political activism on the conservative fringe have turned Paul into a sort of icon with an activist networking and a fundraising list that puts those of his colleagues to shame.

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Background

At a Glance

Career History: U.S. House (1997 to present); Libertarian Party presidential nominee (1987 to 1988); U.S. House (1976, 1979 to 1985); Ob/Gyn (1968 to 1996)
Birthday: August 20, 1935
Hometown: Green Tree, Penn.
Alma Mater: Gettysburg College, BA, 1957; Duke University, Md., 1961
Spouse: Carol
Religion: Protestant
DC Office: 329 Cannon Building, Washington DC, 20510, 202-225-2831