It is really simple

[dude58677]

Libertarianism was unknown before 2008 because third party candidates cannot get their names on the ballot and it is still true to this day. Ron Paul ran as a Republican so he could get the message out. It worked. In 2010 many libertarians who were inspired by Ron Paul's campagin strategy of running for President as a major party candidate ran for office at local, state and federal elections beating out establishment candidates for office. The message resonated not only because it is sound but also because it is the answer to our problems in this country. Now Ron Paul is leading in Iowa.

This is why Ron Paul is a heavy favorite to become President and why he will never run as a third party candidate.

[TheTyke]

Agreed. He found out from trying both which worked better... and now we all know!

[Michigan11]

Let's not use labels though, we are taking over the party and the media all in one.