^But Paul showed his total novice stature by confusing a cable news interview with a philosophical debate. Competency at politics is part of the job he's trying for, and Paul demonstrated his lack of it. ^

^The guy comes across as somebody who's really burdened by his names. He's acting like the tormented lovechild of Ron Paul and Ayn Rand, and driven to extremes by his heritage. How do you outshine your father and godmother when they're two of the most extreme political thinkers America has ever known?^

Leaving aside your somewhat blurred definition of "rightwinger," no real argument here. Reagan, to name one, had a good grasp of the history and basic philosophy of conservatism, and some political and common sense. Rand Paul is relatively new to me, but I do know that Ron Paul has long been very low on my list of people I'd like to see as president.