Politics & Government

Ron Paul: 'I'd Be a Good Whistleblower' [VIDEO]

The Texas congressman chatted policy with residents at a private house party in Rye on Thursday.

In Ron Paul's eyes, the United States’ current problems are "much bigger than just a few people" and their ideas, although the Texas congressman said Thursday he hopes he can lead a philosophical shift, if elected president, that can solve those problems.

Paul spoke at a private house party on Pioneer Road in Rye Thursday night to roughly 40 area residents, mainly trying to convey the idea that the nation needs to stop "floundering around" and shift its priorities.

"We've lost our confidence and our freedom," said Paul, whose stop Thursday was the first in the area since he in New Castle last weekend.

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Paul said the current economic climate is similar to that of the 1970s, a time that he said frustrated him and inspired him to seek out political office.

Now, Paul said he hopes others will have the same reaction and stand behind him to help create the first “significant new jobs” in a decade, cut the debt by reducing military and other spending, and reevaluate and reduce the scope of government.

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“We have got to look at the foundation,” said Paul, who is considered radical by some because of his desire to eliminate many levels of government regulation. “That’s what we’ve got to do to rebuild.”

Thursday’s house party was hosted by Hugh and Andrea Lee, of Derry, at their Rye home, which was built in 1730 and was once Miriam's Tea Room.

Hugh Lee, an undecided Republican, said he hosted the party because he shares some of Paul’s beliefs and wanted to give friends and neighbors a chance to chat with him in an informal, more “candid” setting.

What he heard, he said, was “music to his ears.”

“I’m proud to have someone here who practices thinking and common sense,” said Lee.

Among the individuals who attended Lee’s private gathering were Executive Councilor Chris Sununu, State Rep. Patrick Abrami and State Sen. Jim Forsythe, the chairman of Paul’s Granite State campaign.

Paul took a variety of questions Thursday, including one about his fruitless 2008 presidential campaign, a campaign in which Forsythe was an active supporter but held no official title.

Paul said he has “improved many things” since those failed efforts, and said what he needs now is for his “momentum to continue” after several strong local and national poll showings.

Then, he said he’ll be able to bring something in 2012 that he feels Washington currently lacks.

“If I get there, I’d be a good whistleblower,” said Paul. “Now, whistleblowing is considered treason. I think we need more whistleblowers.”


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