The Ron Paul Effect

The impact of the insurgent candidate is hard to predict in New Hampshire. The New England state is a more natural fit for him than Iowa, with higher numbers of libertarian voters who wouldn't have been out of place at the Boston Tea Party (last fall, one of Paul's supporters showed up at campaign events dressed in full Revolutionary War gear, complete with tri-corner hat). Some political observers believe Paul will attract Giuliani supporters, who tend to be political neophytes. But he also competes with McCain for the "maverick" brand. And his strong opposition to the Iraq War could even win over independents who might otherwise back Obama.