Ron Paul likes his chances in New Hampshire!

CONCORD, New Hampshire - August 18, 2011 - Fresh off a strong finish in the Iowa straw poll, U.S. Rep. Ron Paul said Thursday that he's optimistic about winning the New Hampshire primary, despite what he calls a lack of media attention.

Paul finished 152 votes behind U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann in last weekend's straw poll and typically polls alongside the presumed top tier of candidates for the Republican nomination for president. But he's not always part of the national conversation.

"I don't know if frustrating is the right word," Paul said, commenting on the lack of coverage. "It is annoying, but I think I've put up with it a long time, so when I get a fair shake, I'm very pleased."

Paul is now one of two Texans in the race, with Texas Governor Rick Perry joining last weekend. Paul said the governor got too personal when he said Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke's actions were almost treasonous.

"I'm a pretty sharp critic of the Fed but I've never used those kinds of words," said Paul.
Paul also said that he doesn't consider Perry a threat, even though he's garnering a lot of the attention in the Granite State this week.

"I don't think he'll affect us because I see him as more part of the status quo," Paul said. "His positions aren't going to be like mine, and he'll dilute the other vote. I think he's a bigger threat to say, (former Massachusetts Governor Mitt) Romney."

Paul said that another non-issue is his age. The 75-year-old said it doesn't affect his ability to run the nation, and said he's in great shape.

"I've offered to ride a bicycle for 20 miles in Houston when the temperature is 100 and the humidity is 100, " said Paul.

Paul said he plans to be back in New Hampshire within the next several weeks. His campaign said that as support for him continues to grow in the Granite State, the next visit may be even sooner.