Why is Ben Carson polling so well?

[Maxwell]

Because he's not a politician, and in some circles that is very appealing. There doesn't seem to be a fear to say what's on his mind, and that's something else a lot of people really like about him.

There is also definitely a lot of people in the GOP that are very rabidly anti-Obama, to the point where substance doesn't matter. Carson also appeals to that sentiment - he basically began his political identity as an anti-Obama juggernaut.

[Maxwell]

Beacuse people like his ideas and views. Some like his life experiences and not being a politician

Beyond a couple of pet issues (confederate flag, vaccinations), how is Carson different than any other GOP candidate? I've heard his foreign policy is a little offkilter, but I haven't heard anything specific beyond that characterization.