In precious years, when Paulites were just as dedicated, he finished 4th or lower with 12% or less of the vote. The sudden surge, especially since the “Tea Party” folks don’t like him, is suspect.
Tea Party ‘Revolution’ Targets Ron Paul in GOP Primary
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/02/18/tea-party-movement-betrays-ron-paul-gop-challengers/
In previous years, let’s say 2007 and 2008, Ron Pauls supporters weren’t as numerous (2007), or were either too inexperienced or were beaten by active campaigns (2008). Nobody is running now, not Paul, Romney, Palin or anyone else.
Paul has passionate supporters and a self organizing campaign.
I was pretty surprised by the convincing victory at CPAC.