Ron Paul announced Tuesday that he is creating an exploratory committee for a 2012 run. Local Iowa activists to boost Paul

Saying his issues are catching fire with the public, Ron Paul unveiled his Iowa leadership team on Tuesday, where he also formally announced the creation of his presidential exploratory committee.

Paul frankly explained Tuesday that he was launching an exploratory committee in order to meet the requirements necessary to compete in the first presidential debate being hosted May 5 by the South Carolina Republican Party.


Paul also said he’s been encouraged by what he sees as momentum on his issues, such as cutting spending, auditing the Fed, and ending foreign engagements.

“It is intellectual, I believe politicians reflect an intellectual climate,” Paul said. “And that is where we are having the most impact.”

The Texas congressman named longtime Republican activist Drew Ivers as chairman of Paul's Iowa campaign. Ivers served the same role for Pat Buchanan in 1996 and 2000, as well as for Pat Robertson in 1988.

Paul has also chosen David Fischer and A.J. Spiker to serve as his Iowa campaign co-chairs. Fisher is an active member of the Polk County GOP, currently serving on the group's executive committee. Spiker meanwhile is a former chairman, co-chairman, and treasurer of the Story County Republican Party, and a resident of Ames.

"Iowa has a special place in American politics, and Dr. Paul is very pleased to announce the launch of his exploratory committee in the capitol of the Hawkeye State," Paul aide Jesse Benton said.

"We are also extremely proud to enjoy the support and leadership of Drew Ivers, David Fischer and A.J. Spiker," Benton added. "All three men are pillars of their communities and leaders of the Republican Party and will be tremendous assets as Dr. Paul makes his final decision about the 2012 presidential campaign."

Paul announced Monday that he is creating an exploratory committee, putting him one step away from a full-fledged presidential campaign.