Texas Representative Ron Paul appeared on Fox News Sunday this weekend to discuss the 2012 race and his prospects heading into January. Among the many topics discussed was whether Paul would consider launching an independent bid in the event he doesn't win the 2012 GOP nomination.
Here is Paul's entire interview from Sunday, November 6, 2011:
Report from CNN:
Washington (CNN) — Texas Rep. Ron Paul issued a trademark blunt response Sunday when asked if he might launch a third-party presidential bid in the event he fails to win the Republican presidential nomination.
"I have no intention (of) doing that. That doesn't make sense to me to even think about it, let alone plan to do that," Paul said on "Fox News Sunday."
When prodded further, Paul added it won't happen "because I don't want to do it."
Some Republicans worry an independent bid by Paul would split the conservative vote to ensure the re-election next year of Democratic President Barack Obama.
Paul, who is making his second run for the GOP nomination, has held a steady middle position in the polls so far, below the top-tier candidates but generally getting double-digit support to top the rest of the pack.
He advocates sharply reducing the size and role of government, including the end of a U.S. military presence in many places around the world.
Paul has a strong following this time around, however, he hasn't been able to break into the top spot among a majority of GOP primary voters and I suspect that challenge to remain heading to January.