The Libertarian Party has always been present in one form or another in the United States, but it did not become a serious political force until after the Republican Party collapsed after NeoConGate. The Libertarians are extreme fiscal conservatives, and have never voted yes on a single spending bill, excluding relief efforts during times of crisis. The Party is also much more protective of individual liberty than its Republican cousins, and were staunchly behind the destruction of the DHS. Currently the leader of the party is former Treasury Secretary Ron Paul, who dissented from the Edwards choice of Senator Obama for fear of creating a socialist state. Ron Paul is currently the Minority Leader of the House, and has stated that he will not run again in 2012.