It’s almost like clockwork. Libertarian Republicans, many of whom are opposed to the political leadership of the Republican Party, are looking for a politician to be their standard-bearer. This year, after enthusiastically backing Ron Paul in 2008, the Santa Fe New Mexican reports that these groups are looking (again) towards former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson.

Johnson, a two-term governor who preceded Gov. Bill Richardson, endorsed Ron Paul for President last year and spoke at Paul’s Rally for the Republic in Minnesota last year.

And almost immediately after Barack Obama’s election, a group called Gary Johnson for President 2012 sprang up on Facebook. It currently has 1,733 members.

The Santa Fe New Mexican noted a grassroots group has been running JohnsonForAmerica.com and that Johnson himself was set to launch a so-called 527 committee and serve as “honorary chairman.”

The committee, called “Our America” will not be able officially endorse or work against specific candidates, but can be used to raise money and push for political ideals; in Johnson’s case, small government and libertarian ideals.

Earlier this year, Johnson told the American Conservative that he was keeping his options open in regards to a 2012 Presidential run.