For the most part, the libertarians I run across and are friends with are usually not very religious, so it struck me as rather odd to see a very libertarian candidate (Ron Paul) note that he does not accept evolution. Makes me wonder whether that could put a crimp in some of his supporters as libertarians are not necessarily the bunch who will not accept with so much factual basis behind it.

Personally, any candidate that is not willing to change one’s belief when the facts are right in front of you is certainly not a candidate for me to support. The commenter on Andrew Sullivan’s blog says it well:

A reader writes:

I too, wanted to pretend like I didn’t see that video of Ron Paul saying that he can’t accept Evolution.  I admire the man.  He is clearly the most legitimate GOP candidate.  But this has completely damaged my perception of him.  As an Athiest, I often find it absoultely mind-boggling that so many people in the United States, in this day and age, can still deny that Evolution is real.  But the truth is, while pretty much any person you meet who doesn’t believe in Evolution is doing so for religous reasons, it is important to note that this issue goes far deeper than just religion itself.  After all, the present day Vatican, and even Pope Benedict have a very sober stance towards Evolution.  So this to me, highlights why Paul’s denial of Evolution is such a big deal.