Party primaries are a prime opportunity to raise issues that are populist and popular, in an attempt to pursue a large following and support, and no less important - funding. But for some politicians and Presidential hopefuls, the limelight and media attention are an opportunity to raise some contested issues as well. One such candidate is Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul, and the issue on the table is online gambling.

Ron Paul, one of nine candidates for the Republican nomination in the 2008 Presidential election, has voiced his support of an initiative, an alternative to the current Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA), which was passed during the current administration, called the Internet Gambling Regulation and Enforcement Act (IGREA).

Congressman Barney Frank, Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, is a member of the Democratic Party. Paul decided to back Frank on grounds that he does not believe the government should regulate the Internet in principle. Paul added, with clear reference to gambling online, that he believes "strongly that people should be free to engage in the activities they wish as long as they are willing to take responsibility for their actions."

The Presidential Primaries season is prime time indeed for politicians to step up and speak clearly. Paul is obviously not concerned with being labeled as "pro-porn" or "pro-gambling." Such labels have too often been thrown at Congress members who have supported such initiatives as the IGREA. Speaking his mind is a welcome step. It can only be hoped that it be followed by other candidates and that the issue be resolved in an open and democratic way.