Ron Paul Finishes Third in Alaska

Scratch another state off the candidate's wish-list. From The Hill:

With 96 percent of precincts reporting, Romney had 33 percent of the votes cast, followed by former Sen. Rick Santorum at 29 percent.

Paul, who has performed well in past caucus contests, finished third with 24 percent. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich earned 14 percent.

The state's 27 delegates will be awarded proportionately later this month. […]

The result will be a disappointment for Paul, who is still looking for his first victory in the 2012 nominating race. The Texas lawmaker's strategy was to focus on geographic pockets in his pursuit of delegates, and he was the only candidate to campaign in Alaska ahead of the vote.

Related Reason coverage yesterday from Garrett Quinn, Brian Doherty, Lucy Steigerwald, Mike Riggs, and Shikha Dalmia. Read Brian Doherty's April-issue cover story on "The Ron Paul Moment."