??? For President 2012

I know, the next presidential election isn't until 2012. You're probably thinking, "Why is this dude writing about who's going to run for president in 2012?!?" Well, it's not as far off as you might think. It's approximately one year until candidates start announcing they intend to run. People who are in the know in politics are already looking for the next president of the United States. So, I thought I'd run through some of the potential candidates and let you know my favorite.

1. Ron Paul

He ran a very strong campaign for president in 2008, mostly because of his wide grassroots support. This grassroots movement has only gotten bigger since the election. He won this year's CPAC straw poll - beating out Mitt Romney, who has won it the past 2 years. Granted, Ron Paul's supporters are very active and more than likely had winning the straw poll all planned out, but still he has very good name recognition. One downside: he is 74 years old and not getting any younger.

2. Gary Johnson

Former governor of New Mexico, Gary Johnson is very libertarian, in many ways similar to Ron Paul. He believes in limited government and a non-interventionist foreign policy. He supports decriminalization of Marijauna - which could be a sticking point for moral conservatives. He has expressed interest in possibly running for president in 2012.

3. Michele Bachmann

Currently serving in the U.S. House of Representatives, Michele Bachmann is more of your typical conservative on most issues. Slightly libertarian leaning, she favors government intevention on most moral issues. She speaks very passionately on limiting government growth, especially spending. She has expressed no interest in running, but Michael Savage on his radio show has said she should run with Mitt Romney as her VP running mate.


These are just my top 3 of the many possible candidates. Out of these 3, I'd have to say my favorite is Gary Johnson. I have been a fan of his since I heard him speak at Ron Paul's Rally for the Republic in 2008. He is very libertarian and can present his views in a convincing way. If he decides to run I will be supportin him in 2012.

Any thoughts? Who's your pick for president in 2012? Feel free to let me know in the comments.