Texas Congressman Ron Paul (R) has placed second in The Republican Party’s Iowa Straw Poll, held today in Ames, Iowa. Dr. Paul is one of only two candidates in this year’s field who favors marijuana legalization – former New Mexico Gary Johnson being the other.

Ron Paul finished less than 200 votes behind the poll’s winner, Minnesota Congresswoman Michele Bachmann. While the straw poll is non-binding, it is usually an indication of where candidates stand early on in a party’s nomination process.

Dr. Paul’s continued momentum in the race means there will be a discussion about The War on Drugs and legalization going forward. It’s true that the country is embroiled in an economic catastrophe, but legalization has a place in that discussion as well. Job creation, savings of government resources, and tax revenues are major reasons legalization should be included in economic discussion.

1. Congresswoman Michele Bachmann (4823, 28.55%)

2. Congressman Ron Paul (4671, 27.65%)

There were roughly 17,000 votes cast in the straw poll, and the results ensure that Congressman Paul will remain on the national radar for a good time to come in this race.

- Joe Klare