Ron Paul’s newsletters, now on Twitter

We’re all familiar with Ron Paul’s outspoken public persona, best exemplified through his brash YouTube ads, which are big on tough talk, short on specifics.

However, just a few decades ago, Paul, the GOP presidential candidate, quietly projected a very different image. From the late ‘70s to the early ‘90s, his monthly newsletter was rife with absurd tirades tinged with racism and homophobia.

A new Twitter account, @RP_Newsletter, is set on making a record of some of Paul’s most radical past statements. Here’s just a taste:

“On the streets, black crime against whites is the norm, with some of it even justified as ‘fighting the power.’”

“‘Senior Democratic officials’ say the Congressional gym has become a hotbed of homosexual activity, presumably by Republicans.”

The anonymous account holder declined an interview with the Daily Dot.

“Passions are running high among the Paulites,” he told us in an email.

That may be a bit of an understatement. The account, which has accumulated 4,000 followers, has elicited polarizing reactions. Those who don’t support Paul are shocked that somebody who had espoused those views is a potential candidate.

“Had to unsubscribe from RP_Newsletter. Is this really how millions in the US (ie supporters of Ron Paul) think? Terrible, bigoted nonsense,” tweeted @jjkennard.

Supporters, some of whom argue that Paul had little to do with the newsletters’ content, are concerned that Paul’s past views will derail his present election chances.

“Something as stupid as the RP newsletter issue is going derail his campaign. Why I have no faith in the political process to bring freedom,” tweeted @mrktanarchist.