Ron Paul

Ever see one of those movies in which the protagonist discovers that the world we live in is based on an illusion, and that it's really controlled by the Matrix, the Illuminati or the number pi? Ron Paul is that guy. Just like in the movies, everything he says is true, but hardly anyone will listen to him — except the "tea party" movement, which his 2008 campaign for president helped to inspire. Paul says that limiting the federal government's powers only to those explicitly mentioned in the constitution would be the best way to guarantee the rule of law. He firmly believes that the US has harmed itself by creating the global money system and by intervening in the affairs of other countries. "Maybe we could take care of some people back here at home if we weren't spending $1.5 trillion a year on our militarism," he says.

Current age: 76

From: Texas

Religion: Baptist

Career path: Medical doctor

Current occupation: Member of the House of Representatives

Priorities: Liberty, isolationism, abolishing the Federal Reserve Bank

Motto: "The federal government shouldn't be in the business of... [insert any of several phrases here]."

His critics call him: Dr. No.

Distinguishing features: Resembles a beardless Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Clown factor: *

Skeletons in closet: 0

Religious fervor: *

Cuckoo factor: **

Ability to stretch the truth: 0

Troublesome aspects: Although Paul is in very good health, his age and frail appearance could turn off voters. Almost everything he proposes would require a long period of transition, which Paul acknowledges, in order to avoid large-scale disruption to the economy.

Why they won't elect him: Paul lacks a Congressional contingent of like-minded individuals who would go along with completely restructuring the federal government — not to mention the entire system of global capitalism. Also, not many Americans believe it's in their country's interest to force the Syrians, Israelis and Europeans to solve their own problems.

Why they might: Ron Paul has a completely honest and consistent position on everything. He has not ruled out a third-party candidacy if he is not the Republican nominee. The "tea party" would support him over most Republican candidates, throwing the race wide open.

Website: www.ronpaul2012.com

— Mike Pilewski

Read more about Election 2012.