TRENTON – State Sen. Mike Doherty (R-23), Oxford, this afternoon formally endorsed U.S. Rep. Ron Paul (R-TX) for president.

"For the last 100 years, the Constitution has been ignored in this country,” said the prospective U.S. Senate candidate and proud U.S. Army veteran.  “In 2012, we are going to elect a man to restore liberty.”

The presidential candidate was present to receive Doherty’s endorsement on the steps of the Statehouse Annex before a ripped crowd.

 Prof. Murray Sabrin described Paul as a champion of civil liberties, limited government, a balanced budget, free enterprise and peace.

“If you are going to use our military, you must get a declaration of war first from our Congress,” shouted Doherty.

Moments later, “End the Fed! End the Fed! End the Fed!” erupted from the large crowd waving Ron Paul signs.

At least one tricorn hat was visible among them.

"If we had only listened to our founders, we wouldn't have to be putting up with this," declared a well-received Paul, referring to the chokehold, as he sees it, of the military industrial complax and big government.

Paul told PolitickerNJ.com of Christie, "I don't know him. I have no idea what he's going to do."

Asked if he intends to endorse Doherty for U.S. Senate, he said, "Sure."

The chants of Doherty! Doherty!" filled the courtyard.".