WWW.LP.ORG MINIMUM GOVERNMENT • MAXIMUM FREEDOM Don’t miss your chance for naming rights on the The Party of Principle™ David F. Nolan Memorial Office Building!

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June 2013 The Official Newspaper of the Libertarian Party Volume 43, Issue 2 In This Issue: LP Facebook page showcasing Libertarian Solutions takes off Chair’s Corner ...... 2 new focus on Libertarian Solu- own vantage tions, especially those that feature points, individu- Building Fund ...... 3–4 LPA Libertarian candidates running for Newsal LP Facebook office, is fueling rapid growth of the Lib- volunteers pro- Elected Libertarians ...... 5 ertarian Party’s Facebook page. In the past duce a variety of year, the page attracted 123,000 new follow- content that can Libertarian Candidates ...... 5–7 ers, a 57 percent increase. connect with , at-large representative new audiences Libertarian Party Speaks Out ...8 on the Libertarian National Committee who are wait- and former congressional candidate for LP ing to encoun- End the Income Tax ...... 8–9 Maryland, has been the primary driver of a ter Libertarian Arvin Vohra new Facebook strategy that combines col- ideas. Illegal IRS Power Grabs ...... 9 orful, eye-catching graphics and a touch of “Just as we believe parents make bet- Affiliate News ...... 10–11 humor with bold Libertarian Solutions cre- ter decisions for schools than the state, we ated by a diverse team of Libertarian vol- believe that Libertarians are the Michigan ...... 12 unteers. best at deciding what would most effective- Central to Vohra’s strategy is crowd- ly convince their friends and family mem- Debate Exclusion Lawsuit ...... 12 sourcing, the practice of pooling ideas, bers,” Vohra said. “We put out a variety of skills, and content from a large group of material to give Libertarians different op- Campaign Finance Lawsuit .....13 contributors in an online community. Vohra tions on what to use to bring their friends started a two-person team in 2012 for post- and family over to the cause of freedom.” Simple Libertarian Solutions ..13 ing new content, along with former LNC continued on page 6... representative John Jay Myers, and rapid- Battling GOP in Montana ...... 14 ly expanded the effort to include activists throughout the . Relentless Offense ...... 15 More than 50 active Libertarian vol- LP Media Buzz ...... 16 unteers across the country have lent their skills and ideas to the LP Facebook page. By originating content that reflects their

Memes featuring Libertarian Solutions created by the LP Facebook team. Page 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org June 2013

The following became Lifetime hair s orner C ’ C Members of the Libertarian Party between March 19, 2013, and June 12, 2013:

All politics is personal Terry F. Albertson (MT) Terry W. Klotz (IL) by Geoffrey J. Neale, Chair Pranav Badhwar (DC) Jeffrey Allen Kopczynski (CA) William A. Buzzell (MD) Spencer Lambert (UT) ormer U.S. Speaker of Leader Robert H. Michel of Peoria, Illinois opposed the the House Tip O’Neill, bill, but O’Neill delivered an address broadcast in Peoria David Chandler (ME) Tom Laurent (TX) a power broker of im- that showed how many infrastructure problems in Peoria Woodworth Clum (CA) Barbara LeClerq (KS) F Austin Cook (MD) M. Ann Leech (OH) mense skill and influence, would be fixed by the bill. coined the phrase “All Politics “‘By hitting his rival where he lived, O’Neill trans- Ilene Davis (FL) Theresa Renae Luevano (CA) Is Local.” This is completely lated a wholesale debate over national economic policy Heath Dearman (MS) Alan T. Matsuda (HI) true, when taken in the context to the local, retail level,’ said Chris Matthews of the MS- George Dick (KY) Fred K. McCoy (VA) of how it was meant. NBC show Hardball.” Some libertarians think O’Neill’s practice of this philosophy diverges Sacha Dubearn (FL) Alexander M. Newton (CA) this means that only local-level greatly from any libertarian solution, but his point, when Abigail DuBéarn (FL) Ryan Oneglia (CT) activity matters, and national taken in the context of what he meant, is absolutely true. George M. Felber (CA) Harold B. Peterson (CO) politics is inconsequential. That’s not what O’Neill meant. Since “all politics is local” — or personal — we Andrew H. Fischer (OH) Stephen J. Pilling (CA) O’Neill meant that most people vote based upon how must emphasize to the voters how a vote for a Libertarian David Grill (IL) Christopher C. Robin (OH) their vote affects them personally. They vote based upon will affect their daily lives. Our executive director, Carla Ray Hachem (VA) Melissa D. Scott (VA) how they think the candidates will affect their lives. Most Howell, is the driving force within our party of “Libertar- voters do not vote based upon high concepts and philosophy. ian Solutions,” and she has it completely right. We must Linda Hinkle (CA) Richard J. Secula (MI) Does anyone really think that O’Neill, the most promote exactly how we will change the political reality Stephen Hutchens (CO) David A. Stotz (CO) powerful person in the U.S. government after the presi- on the most local level of all — voters’ own lives. Philos- John A. Iler (FL) Jeff Van Epps (NY) dent, was endorsing a “bottom up” approach to govern- ophy is foundational, but it’s a hard sell. Money in your Matthew Judkin (NV) Eugene A. Ward (NY) ment? If so, he never voted that way in his life. pocket is an easy sell. Freedom and is a hard sell, Martin Joseph Keller (GA) Lowry R Watkins Jr. (KY) From Wikipedia: but being able to own a gun, or smoke a cigar, or marry Kathleen M. Kelm (CO) Wayne G. Whitmore (NY) “During the 1982 Congressional elections, whom you want is a much easier sell. O’Neill’s seat was challenged by lawyer Tip O’Neill observed that people vote based upon Frank McNamara, who had financed most of his- cam how it will affect their lives. Would we have it any other The Libertarian Party grants Lifetime paign with money from oil interests in Oklahoma and way? Membership to individuals who Yours in liberty, Texas. Voters in Massachusetts, plagued by oil prices and contribute at least $1,000 during a poor economy for many years, felt no love for McNa- mara and his oil money and instead mocked him as he any 12-month period. Call 202-333- announced his candidacy on the steps of the US Capitol. 0008 to find out how much more you “Later during those elections, O’Neill introduced would need to donate to become a a $1-billion jobs bill to the table. House Republican Lifetime Member today.

Libertarian Party News LP News Send News, Articles, (ISSN 8755-139X) is the official Essays or newspaper of the The Purposes of the Libertarian Party: Photographs: The party is organized to implement and give voice to the principles embodied in the State- Libertarian Party® of the United Libertarian Party ment of Principles by: functioning as a libertarian political entity separate and distinct from States. Opinions and articles 2600 Virginia Avenue NW, Suite 200 all other political parties or movements; moving public policy in a libertarian direction by published in this newspaper do not Washington, DC 20037 building a political party that elects Libertarians to public office; chartering affiliate parties necessarily represent official party Phone: (202) 333-0008 throughout the United States and promoting their growth and activities; nominating candi- positions unless so indicated. E-mail: [email protected] dates for president and vice president of the United States, and supporting party and affili- ate party candidates for political office; and, entering into public information activities. NATIONAL CHAIR: Send Address Changes To: Geoffrey J. Neale Libertarian Party LP NEWS EDITOR: LP NEWS ASSOCIATE EDITOR: 2600 Virginia Avenue NW, Suite 200 2600 Virginia Avenue NW, Suite 200 Carla Howell Eric D. Dixon Washington, DC 20037 Washington, DC 20037 E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (202) 333-0008 CONTRIBUTORS: Email: [email protected] Eric D. Dixon, Carla Howell, Mike Fellows, Ivan Glinski, Maxim Kniazkov, Michael Cloud

Yes! I would like to help fund this once-in-a-lifetime project! A new headquarters for the National Libertarian Party The David F. Nolan Memorial Building

Vol.I 43, AM I ssueENCLOSING 2 MY BEST GIFT OF: The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 3 ___ $25,000 I will sponsor one of just five Liberty Rooms open for dedication. Don’t ___miss your $10,000 chance My name for (or Naming the name of aRights loved one) on will the be the David only name F. inscribed Nolan on Memorial one of just 25 NolanBuilding Building Founder plaques to be displayed permanently in the Nolan building. Great___ news! The $5,000 Libertarian My name National (or the name Committee of a loved is on e) yourwill namebe one appear of just 50 inside names this inscribed historic building,on a Nolan right alongside ready to buy an office space for the party’s new national David Nolan’s. Building Hero of Liberty Plaque to be permanently displayed above the Benefactor plaque headquarters in the Washington, D.C., area, which will Naming opportunities are strictly limited. Many have below. substantially reduce the party’s annual operating costs. This pledged and will donate soon. All donations will be handled ___ $1,000 My name (or the name of a loved one) will be one of just 200 names inscribed on the Nolan building will be named the David F. Nolan Memorial Building, on a first-come, first-served basis. So please don’t wait. Place Building Benefactor of Liberty Plaque. in honor of our party’s founder. your name next to David Nolan’s by selecting the naming Don’t___ miss this $500once-in-a-lifetime My name will opportunity be inscribed to in havethe handsome, opportunity leather-bound that’s right Nolan for Building you today, Defenders before it’s of too late! Liberty Registry that will appear forever in the foyer of the Nolan Building. David___ F. Nolan $250 Memorial My name will Building be inscribed Fund on a Nolan Donors Building as Friend of June of Liberty 10 framedare listed certificate on that page will 4. % be delivered to my home. (Contributors at the $250 and above levels will also receive invitations in 2013 and 2014 Select a donor level: £ You will___ be named a sponsor $100 of one I will of justbe recognized five £ You in will LP beNews recognized as a Nolan as a NolanBuilding Building Advocate £ For of a giftLiberty of $100 and or more my nameyou will will be recognized rooms open for dedication in yourappear name in a(or special Benefactor section of of the Liberty LP website by having dedicated your name to Nolan by Building name in contributors.LP News as a Nolan Building the name of a loved one) at the David F. Nolan (along with others) inscribed on an elegant Nolan Advocate of Liberty for your donation to the

Memorial ___ Building with Other a contribution ______of $25,000 Building Benefactor of Liberty Plaque to be building fund, and your name will appear in a or more (maximum $32,400 per calendar year). displayed forever in the Nolan building with a special section of the LP website dedicated to Names of donors at all above levelsdonation will be of printed $1,000 orin more.LP News Limit: and 200 appear in a specialNolan Building section contributors. of the LP (Nowebsite. limit) £ You will be recognized as a Nolan Building Founder by having your name (or the name of £ For a gift of $500 or more you will be recognized £ Other Amount: ______a loved one)Please inscribed confirm on a beautiful exactly plaque how youall wantas ayour Nolan name(s) Building to Defenderappear when of Liberty permanently by inscribed at the David F. Nolan its own that Memorialwill be displayed Building permanently or other in theoption youhaving have your selected: name appear ______forever in the leather- Contributors at the $250 and above levels will Nolan building with a contribution□ I do not of $10,000 wish my or namebound to be Nolan inscribed. Building Defender of Liberty also receive invitations in 2013 and 2014 to private meetings with the Libertarian Party’s national more. Limit: 25 Registry that will be placed in the foyer of the Nolan Building. (No limit) chairman and executive director, where you’ll able £ WillFrom: be recognized as a Nolan Building Hero of Return To: Geoff J.to Neale, discuss theChair party’s progress and strategy. Liberty by having your name (along with others) £ For a donation of $250 or more your name will Names of donors at all above levels will be memorialized on the Nolan Building Hero of be inscribed on a Nolan Building FriendLibertarian of printed National in LP News Committee and appear ,in Inc a special section Liberty Plaque above the Benefactor plaque with Liberty framed certificate you’ll be proud2600 to Virginia of the LP Ave., website. NW, Suite 200 a donation of $5,000 or more you. Limit: 50 hang in your home. (No limit) £ Washington, Check DC if you 20037 do not want your name to appear. I WOULD LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE BY: O Check (payable to the Libertarian Party) O MasterCard O Visa O American Express O Discover (No corporate contributions please) Name______Name on Card ______Mailing Address ______Account #______Expires ______Signature Occupation ______Employer ______Federal law requires political committees to report the name, mailing address, occupation, and name of the employer for each individual whose total contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year. Political contributions are not tax deductible. PAID FOR BY THE LIBERTARIAN NATIONAL COMMITTEE, INC., 2600 VIRGINIA AVE., NW, SUITE 200, WASHINGTON, DC 20037. NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE COMMITTEE. Please confirm exactly how you want your name(s) to appear when permanently inscribed at the David F. Nolan Memorial Office or other selected option:______□ Check if you do not want your name to appear RETURN THIS COMPLETED FORM WITH YOUR CONTRIBUTION TO: 1303 LPN Libertarian National Committee, Inc., 2600 Virginia Ave., NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20037 or CALL (202) 333-0008 TO DONATE BY PHONE or DONATE ONLINE AT www.LP.org/office-fund Page 4 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org June 2013 David F. Nolan Memorial Building Fund donors as of June 10 Founder Hero of Liberty Liberty Room Elizabeth Twilley Nolan Stanley J. Foss Melodie K. Rufer Chris J. Rufer John M. Taylor, MD, MBA

Benefactor of Liberty Mark M. Adamo Heath Dearman Matt Judkin Fred K. McCoy Lawrence Keith Samuels Terry F. Albertson George Conrad Dick Daniel M. Karlan Douglas R. McKissack Richard J. Secula David Aschmann Carl G. Ellis Dave Kaufman Mike & Lisa McQuaid John E. Shuey Rick Ayres Richard C. Evey Martin Joseph Keller Mark & Misella Monoscalco Philip W. Smith Anina and Ben Bachrach Andrew H. Fischer Paul Klinefelter Chuck Moulton John R. Sparduto Pranav Badhwar June R. Genis Terry W. Klutz Alexander McCue Newton John R. Starynski Richard W. Bennett Frederick & Patricia Graboske Ralph & Alice Kopczynski Ryan T. Oneglia Ray Strong Andy & Jill Binsley Mark A. Grannis Robert Steven Kraus Michael Panella David K. Walter William A. Bockoven III M.D. David Grill Spencer Lambert Donald M. Parrish Jr. Eugene A. Ward William A. Buzzell Ray Hachem Richard Lannom Harold Blair Peterson Lowry R. Watkins, Jr. Chung K. Chang Thomas F. Hastings Tom & Mary Laurent Stephen & Soheyla Pilling William & Kathleen White Woodworth Clum Linda A. Hinkle Richard Nadler Rob N. Power George R. Whitfield Austin Tyler Cook Stephen Hutchens Ann Leech & Ken DeJager Patrick C. Richmond Wayne G. Whitmore Sue Cox & Rob Newshutz John A. Iler Theresa Renae Luevano Martin Riske Matthew Paul Wicklund Ilene Davis John M. Inks David R. Mason Richard S. Roth Lily Tang & John Charles Williams Michael De Mello John Brady Jones Alan T. Matsuda Mike Runnebohm The Zsidisin Family

Defender of Liberty Sharon A. Ayres Jerry E. Bloom Linda S. Comstock Leonard J. Karpinski Mel Pinney Dr. Curry B. Taylor Alvin C. Bailey John M. Bowers Jason A. Field Vicki Kirkland G. Luke Roe Richard H. Timberlake Jr. Marel K. Bates Maryann Cazzell Jimmy Eldridge Gardner III Art Lebowski Melissa D. Scott Drury L. Vinton David P. Bergland John W. Cheney Gary Greenberg E. Davison Massey Patrick-Andrew F. Shuey Jonathan R. Walsh David E. Blau G. Alan Clark Kurt G. Horvat David C. Morris Gary Strebel

Friend of Liberty Mark N. Axinn Michael L. Dudley John L Hillhouse Randall A. Miller Seamus Fogarty Riordan Karen S. Steingraber Kennita Lane Watson James J. Baxter Bradley Elliott Mark W.A. Hinkle Roy Minet Michael John Rollin Mark Szulc Kristina Lea Webb Robert E. Booth Anthony Federici James R. Joy Richard P. Myers John Roszmann Nicholas Taiber Neal O. Willmann Albert Brown Matthew Garcell Dennis Knizley David L. Neumann Neal R. Rzepkowski Dorothy L. Taylor Beth Jo Woodell George L. Cady David Garcia Bruce K. Lagasse Stan L. O’Dell Kenneth M. Santema Charles B. Tolleson Irvin E. Chambers Shawn Gill Keith Laube Edward C. Olson Roy Shelton Archie W. Trawick Stephen Dennett John G. Gomez Andrew Makrides Otilio R. Perez Robban Ariel Sica M.D. Patrick J. Traynor John V. DeThomas Chip & Connie Gore David T. Manley Jesse Keith Phillips Jeff Skvorc Christopher E. Tremann Duane W. Dossinger Marc M. Harrold David L. Maris Myron O. Richardson John N. Sorensen Arnold J. Trembley

Advocate of Liberty Thomas Spencer Adams Frank J. Bowman J. Wendell Drye Leslie S. Grunes Roger Leahy Patrick Mullins Dr. Kelley L. Ross II. Brett Tondreau Arnold Adicoff Robert A. Boyce Sr. Michael J. Duffy Michael Guida Howard M. Ledger Robert T. Murphy Dennis L. Schlumpf David E. Trend Ken Ainsworth Michael Mark Brady Barry Dyer Tim R. Hagan Thomas Leone John D. Myles Charles E. Schmid Frederic A. Triplett Robert E. Alexander Elizabeth C. Brierly Joseph S. Edgar Scott Hakaim Martin B. Lessans Lenard L. Nelson Judith A. Schubert Dean L. Tucker Karen A. Allard Morton Brooks John J. Eige George S. Halepis Arlene L. Libby Karen Netherton Rostislav Serota Paul Albert Turbiville Girish Altekar Richard A. Bulka Emerson Ellett Steven E. Haskett Michelle Liberman Kova Larry Nicholas Warren D. Severin William Twilley William E. Anders Zakri Burns Frank & Susan Evan Bert G. Hassler Steve Lill Byron K. Nichols James J. Sewell Cary G. Van Haaren Mike E. Anzis Michael R. Burris Gregory Fahy & Nooshin Fahy Scott B. Haworth Richard W. Loomis Robert Nomura Hendrik W. Sharples Edward Van Peenen Thomas C. Areton Mark A. Byrne Robert Falk Keithen Hayenga Ann Loudermilk Josef Novak Gregory A. Showman Leslie Van Sickel Kenneth H. Ashby Fred Dan Fernandes Heinemann Family Trust Vance Lowry Henry O’Donnell Tod Shuttleworth Keith Allan Vanderlee David F. Bagby Carl Case Francis L. Findley Susan D. Henderson David Macko Chuck Ohmstead Michael E. Siedlecki Don Ver Plank Anthony G. Bajada Constance Catalfio Bryan Fiore Werner Hetzner Sharon R. Maguire J. Joseph Ory Donald Morison Silberger Erik Viker Paul L. Baker William J. Chiarchiaro Stewart Flood Lazarus Long Brian E. Malby Gardner C. Osborne Joseph P. Silvestri Bettina B. Vinsant Gordon J. Bakken Gerald J. Chimenti Perry Forstrom Maxwell M. Hovaten Jon Alan Maras Paul Albert Panichelli Sara L. Sjoberg William P. Voegele Arthur C. Barker Christopher Michael Clark Paul Fortson Christopher Hoyt William H. Markle Gerald A. Phillips James E. Smith George R. Wager Lawrence R. Bartley Martin H. Coalson Robert H. Franke Irving Ingraham Edward D. Marsh John J. Pilger Jeffrey D. Smith Arch Wakefield John H. Bauman James Costello Bob Frey Ken Jackson Deryl W. Martin John Leo Pluswick Marshall Smith Robert L. Walton Brian Baymiller Steven D. Creacy Dick Frieden Peter W. Jacobs Gregory Mason David Porter John C. Sproul Dan B. Waylonis Rex Bell Nancy A. Crow Stephen M. Friedlander David C. Jahntz Brent Mayberry Carl Quinn Jeffrey Wayne Stathes Richard Wesselmann Robert C. Wes Benedict, Jr. James E. Curtis E.N. Friesen Joseph M. Jichetti Michael J. McClung Saul Rackauskas George M. Stephens Gary R. Westmoreland Ruth E. Bennett Christopher J. Custer Frank A. Frisch Dan Johnson Timothy D. McCulloch Jonathan W. Ragle Richard Stob John W. White Lynn J. Berg James Danly Mark Gaston Jason Lance Johnson Thomas C. McDonald John R. Redding Josef A. Storm Henry I. Widman John Alan Berkley Jeremy S. Davis Jason B. Geyer Kip Raymond Karl W. Scott Meeks Charles Regan Thomas J. Sutkowski Daniel Paul Wiener David L. Bersohn Jon Steven Davis Richard L. Geyer David Kattau Nik Meurer Steven Reinhart Robert P. Sutton John Wines Thomas L. Bitner Michael DeVanna Steven M. Gilbert Donald K. Kaup James S. Miller Stuart L. Resnick Carl Martin Swinney Bernhard Wolf Jacqueline Blanchard-Fentiman William Manca Di Villahermosa Ginny Godfrey Nick Kratz Lane E. Miller Owen Riehle John F. Tepley David B. Wolfe Henry Blazek Jerry L. Dixon Martin Gold Jon Michael Kueny Rachel L. Moore Tracy Ritchie David L. Thomas Mark W. Zacharias Walter E. Block Robert J. Donovan Robert Gordon John R. Kuhn Ronald G. Moore Gary Dale Robbins Larry D. Tice Jan-Mark Zentler Stuart Boreen In Memory of Cyril B.H. Fentiman James P. Gray Jeffrey A. LaCroix Bill Morris Bruce Roll James L. Tobin Wilbur Zielke F. Y. Bowling H. Bruce Driscoll Matthew E. Greco Patrick J. Lawlor Lori Motola Hoffman Robert Scott Rose Aubrey Tolson Vol. 43, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 5 Libertarian wins Page, AZ, city council election GA Libertarian fights to Aims to cut millions in spending, taxes “I hope my victory brings more youth to pay cut property taxes, federal attention to the policies that affect all of us,” Tappan he city council of Page, wrote on his Facebook campaign page. “I see more funding, school mandates Ariz., has a new mem- Libertarians coming out every day.” ber fighting to promote Like many residents of Page, Tappan is concerned fter spending less than a year on T the city school board in Mariet- economic growth by cutting about the constantly rising cost of city government. millions of dollars in spending “The city budget has grown from about $15 mil- Ata, Ga., elected Libertarian Brett and cutting taxes. Libertarian lion to $20 million over the last 10 years, and the popu- C. Bittner can claim his first success in Levi Tappan received 816 votes lation has practically remained the same,” he said. reining in government spending. (23.3 percent), the highest vote He noted that the city has financed its most recent “Our 2014 budget is predicated total among six candidates development projects through heavy borrowing, and on a decrease of property taxes,” said Levi Tappan competing for three open seats. ended up $16 million in debt. Just servicing this debt, he Bittner, who leads the Libertarian Par- A lifelong resident of the city, Tappan credits pointed out, now costs Page $1.2 million per year. ty of Georgia as its executive director. Brett Bittner his widespread presence in the community as one of Tappan said that privatizing some money-los- “And so is our 2015 budget projection.” the deciding factors in his election. ing facilities like the municipal golf course and a city- Although the property tax rate decreases are modest — of “I kept a real low budget and went door to door, owned sports complex could be part of the answer. 0.48 mills and 0.71 mills, respectively (one mill equals 1/1,000 talking to people,” Tappan said. Another obvious way to cut spending, he suggested, of a dollar), they represent a positive reversal in a system that Tappan had an early taste of his eventual elec- would be to rein in routinely excessive police over- has for years drained the wallets of local residents. toral success during the March 12 primary. During time requests. Bittner said that the board was able to reduce its tax claim that contest, the ex-Marine scored 15.9 percent of Tappan, who works as a sonographer at the because of a gradual revival of the Marietta real estate mar- the vote. He finished second in a field of 10 candi- local hospital, believes that his decisive victory on ket that has plagued the housing industry since the 2008 crisis. dates, which included prominent local businessmen Election Day represents a mandate from Page voters. More homes are being built and more units are coming out of and members of the community. He lagged behind “From my numbers, it sounds like the citizens foreclosure, he said. the winner, well-known local businessman Dennis liked my ideas, so that’s what I’m going to go with,” This year, he also fought valiantly against a Cobb County Warner, by only 1.2 percent. he said. continued on page 14... CT Libertarian aims to boldly downsize city government backed by full slate of LP candidates eteran Libertarian William • Eliminating the job of city manager and other layers of H. Russell believes the city If elected, Russell promises to “apply unnecessary bureaucracy. Vof Norwich, Conn., has hit a meat cleaver” to the budget and city Russell said that he would like to launch the process bottom — and only Libertarians bureaucracy, demonstrating to Nor- of privatization in the school district, but acknowledged can salvage it. Russell plans to run wich residents that the Libertarian so- that implementing such a plan would require similar pro- a full slate of Libertarian Party can- market reforms at the Connecticut state level. didates in the Nov. 5 local elections lution of is the key To bring about real change, Russell would need co- for the first time in local history. to economic growth and prosperity. operation from throughout the city government, so Russell Russell has already qualified William H. Russell is urging voters to elect the entire “Team Russell,” without for the mayoral ballot. He is now in the time is ripe for Libertarians to take the reins of power leaving any holdovers from previous administrations. the process of assembling six candidates for city council, in Norwich and turn it around. “Once we take Norwich, people will see what can one for treasurer, and six more for the board of education. To qualify for the ballot, Norwich law requires peti- be done, and we’ll be able to expand our agenda to a Three candidates — Michael Holman, Kyle D. Gray tions with 30 verifiable signatures for candidates for trea- different level,” Russell said. “Libertarians need to start and Ashley Pryski — have already signed up for the City surer and the board of education — and 38–48 for those making a name for themselves locally.” Council race, Russell said. Given voter disgust with the running for city council. Russell plans to complete this Russell thinks voters may be primed to look outside current officeholders, he is optimistic about recruiting the paperwork well ahead of the Aug. 7 deadline. the traditional Democrat-Republican matrix and reach remaining 10. If elected, Russell promises to “apply a meat cleav- out to Libertarians for answers because of an encouraging “We have people leaving in droves,” Russell said. er” to the budget and city bureaucracy, demonstrating to showing by independent candidates in a recent election. “The employment situation is terrible. The only jobs you Norwich residents that the Libertarian solution of small In the 2009 Norwich mayoral race, an independent can- can find are minimum wage jobs, and you can’t live in government is the key to economic growth and prosperity. didate came in a very strong second, with 32 percent of Norwich on that amount of money.” Russell’s agenda includes: the vote, ahead of the Democratic candidate’s 17 percent, A crushing tax burden, in his view, is depressing the • Cutting down the city budget, currently projected to and within striking distance of the Republican winner’s amount of investment and other business activities occurring reach $206 million, to 25 percent of its size. 47 percent. in Norwich, making the city an unattractive place to live. These results, according to Mr. Russell, indicate that “My own property taxes went up 100 percent over • Reducing property taxes by 50 percent in the first year Norwich is ready for a political alternative to shrink gov- the past seven years,” Russell said. “People are fed up. and another 50 percent in the second. ernment, allow the private sector to grow, and restore the They are selling and moving to other places.” • Eliminating the Norwich Community Development . Successive Republican and Democratic city admin- Corporation, which, in Russell’s words, has done “a “We need real change in Norwich,” he points out. istrations have grown government, and Russell believes lousy job attracting business to the city.” “And with my Libertarian team, it is coming.” Page 6 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org June 2013

Facebook fan growth of experience, and they were extremely ...continued from page 1 helpful with logistics.” Tapping into a variety of skills, as The brief, punchy messages on the LP well as content and style, is central to Facebook page aim to promote the benefits Vohra’s social media strategy. of major cuts to government, especially “We have people who really know those supported by LP candidates. how to create edgy, in-your-face viral ma- “Electing candidates is a means to an terial,” he said. “We have people who know end,” Vohra said. “The goal is to cut gov- how to make slick graphics with a very pol- ernment and increase liberty.” ished, official look. We have people who It’s not always easy, though, to get know how to reach out to the right, the left, that across to activists, many of whom have the liberty movement, and the apathetic. had little exposure to political commentary This gives the 350,000 people on our page outside of that which advocates Big Gov- a wide variety of what to share with their ernment. friends and family.” “The biggest drawback is the training According to Vohra, the idea of time required to help people learn to stay crowdsourcing came from discussions with on message,” Vohra said. “The media and LP Virginia Chair Chuck Moulton, who set status quo parties are experts in distracting up the original national LP page. people from focusing on major cuts to gov- “He pointed out that the Libertarian ernment. It can be tough to not get distract- Party has a ton of talent that we had not re- ed, but our more experienced volunteers are ally started to tap, and that we now had the extremely helpful in that area.” technology to do so,” Vohra said. “With While the decentralized participation Chuck’s help, as well as feedback from that social networking makes possible cre- our first round of volunteers, we were able ates challenges, it also helps to solve prob- to build systems that allow a large number lems by allowing those who have demon- of people with different areas of expertise strated an understanding of the task at hand to collaborate. Graphic designers, copy- to help lead the newcomers. The contribu- writers, essay writers, and social media tors check each other’s work. experts can work together to produce our The high participation rate on the LP content. Many of our volunteers are actu- Facebook page also makes it possible to tell ally social media professionals with years continued on page 7... Vol. 43, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 7

said. “We can see likes, shares, and com- Facebook fan growth ments, which help us continuously refine ...continued from page 6 our outreach materials.” book pages,” Vohra said. “Sometimes, that have helped our social media outreach. quickly which content people find the most The variety offered on the national what doesn’t work for national works well The game Who’s Driving?, which LNC Ex- engaging. LP Facebook page helps LP affiliates too. for states. We have also had some success ecutive Director Carla Howell developed, “The great thing about Facebook is “Our Facebook experimentation has driving volunteers to state parties. But the has been critical to shaping our current so- that we get immediate feedback,” Vohra been useful for state and county LP Face- bigger change has been ideas from others cial media outreach.” Page 8 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org June 2013 Recent news releases Libertarian Party speaks out! published at LP.org Govt. snooping demands immediate downsizing of all spy agencies granted the order to the “How many violations of the Bill of Rights will it Repeal Patriot FBI on April 25, giving take for civil libertarians to abandon their support of a the government unlim- president who has not only continued — but escalated — ited authority to obtain the sins of the Bush administration?” asked Geoffrey J. Act, FISA, NDAA the data for a specified Neale, chair of the Libertarian Party. aking its cue from George Orwell’s three-month period end- The FBI/NSA’s broad surveillance of domestic famous novel 1984, the Obama ad- ing on July 19. calls is allegedly authorized by the and by Tministration is mining customer data In addition, the 2008 reforms of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance from major Internet vendors and collect- NSA and the FBI are Act. Then–U.S. Sen. voted in favor of ing telephone records of millions of U.S. tapping directly into the the reforms. citizens indiscriminately — regardless of servers of nine leading “Full repeal of FISA, the Patriot Act and the whether they are suspected of a crime. U.S. Internet compa- National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and The (NSA) nies: Microsoft, Yahoo, massive downsizing of federal spy agencies is the only is currently collecting the records of U.S. Google, Facebook, Pal- answer,” said Neale. “Not maybe. Not later. Now. customers of Verizon under a top secret Talk, AOL, Skype, You- This will stop the incremental yet rapid decline of court order issued in April. It is requiring Verizon to give Tube, and Apple. Under a program called PRISM, they’re our privacy and civil , put a check on govern- the NSA information on all telephone calls in its system extracting audio and video chats, photographs, emails, ment power, and help to ensure that every American — and also demanding Verizon’s silence on the order. documents, and connection logs that enable government is afforded due process and justice if charged with a The secret Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court analysts to trace a user’s network of associates. crime.” LP statement on Boston bombing, Syria, foreign intervention Don’t waste time on IRS he Libertarian Party extends While we strenuously condemn acts it can to minimize civilian casualties. Per- heartfelt sympathies to the haps it does from their perspective. But investigation, abolish it surviving families of the of violence against innocent men, from an honest and realistic perspective, victimsT and all who were harmed women, and children as occurred their perpetual calls for military action do and income tax NOW by the senseless and violent bomb- on April 15, we also condemn not minimize civilian casualties, but in- he presidential ing in Boston on April 15 and its the U.S. government’s routine stead increase them. aftermath. We applaud the efforts So that they may avoid harming in- administrations of Boston-area residents and law perpetration of such injustice on nocent others, the Libertarian Party urges Tof Franklin Roo- enforcement officials who helped others throughout the world. President Barack Obama and members of sevelt, John F. Ken- to remove the immediate threat of Congress to: nedy, Lyndon B. John- additional harm from the alleged stay off the streets — without any threat 1. Stay out of foreign conflicts, including in son, Richard Nixon, perpetrators. of force — is a reasonable measure for Syria. The goal of our military should be Bill Clinton, and, now, Barack Obama While we are relieved that the Jus- authorities to take during an emergency. defense only, not attempting to brutalize have all been caught using the Internal tice Department has assured Americans However, threatening force in any way is the world into acceptance of our cultural Revenue Service (IRS) to target politi- that the surviving bombing suspect will a breach of our constitutional rights and is values, to impose “democracy” (its prac- cal enemies. receive a civilian trial, we are troubled unacceptable. We call for laws that impose tice in U.S. elections leaves much to be As long as we have the IRS — that, according to news reports, he was criminal penalties on any government of- desired), to control foreign resources, or and the income tax — we should ex- not read his Miranda rights prior to ques- ficial who oversteps his or her authority or to intervene for other purposes. pect more presidents to use their power tioning. Regardless of the severity of who in any way diminishes our constitu- 2. Immediately end all trade sanctions, to silence and intimidate free voices. the crime, upholding individual rights is tional protections. including sanctions against and No IRS investigation or firing of a few paramount. We call for ensuring that all While we strenuously condemn acts . Sanctions all too often scapegoats will change that. criminal suspects, including alleged ter- of violence against innocent men, women, end in war, as was the case in Iraq. “We must abolish the IRS and end rorists, are Mirandized and offered the and children as occurred on April 15, we Sanctions also lead to the starvation any need for a regulatory agency that right to an attorney before questioning. also condemn the U.S. government’s rou- and death of the innocent who are We also call for ensuring that all such in- tine perpetration of such injustice on oth- snoops into people’s private lives,” said blocked from food and medicine. They terrogations be, without exception, prop- ers throughout the world. As one example, Libertarian Party Executive Director Car- furthermore disrupt the peaceful influ- erly monitored and videotaped. U.S. drone strikes kill many times more la Howell. “We must draw back total fed- ence of international businessmen and We are further troubled by reports of civilians than terrorists. eral spending to the level of 1992, which women who have every incentive to martial law tactics, including the alleged Such disregard for human life is is more than enough to fulfill the govern- avoid war and violence. orders issued by Massachusetts Gov. De- morally reprehensible. In addition, it un- ment’s constitutional duties to protect our val Patrick for residents to stay inside necessarily engenders enemies of the 3. Begin to shut down the vast majority of life, liberty, and property. This will allow their homes and for stores to stay closed. United States. our foreign military bases and bring our us to balance the budget immediately, end Visiting homes to inquire of suspect sight- Spokespersons for the military claim troops home. Our wealthy allies can pay the federal income tax completely, and ings or politely requesting that residents that the federal government does whatever continued on page 14... continued on page 9... Vol. 43, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 9 Libertarian Solution: End the income tax By on which the politi- Absolutely nothing. vorite cause or charity in a way you’ve cians refuse to con- What claim should they have on never been able to do before? Harry Browne (1933–2006) was the Lib- sider legislation.your earnings? What will you do with that money? ertarian Party presidential candidate in Your entire life is Absolutely none. At last, it will all be yours — and the 1996 and 2000, an investment advisor fair game for them When we repeal the income tax, all government will no longer have a claim and a Times best-selling au - to enact rules. that you pay now in income and Social Se- on it. curity taxes will be yours at last — to do thor whose 12 books on finance, personal Benefits Other Benefits freedom and politics sold over 2 million with as you see fit. Imagine what That in itself is reason enough to copies. Harry Browne If yours is the average American would happen if we family, that means over $10,000 a year want to end the income tax. But here are omeday, I hope, April 15th will no repealed all forms that’s been going to the politicians will three additional benefits: longer be Tax Day but instead will of federal income tax — including the stay in your hands. They won’t have a • There will be a similar increase in take- Sbe known as Freedom Day — a personal income tax, the corporate income claim on a single dollar you earn. home pay for everyone you do business day to remember the huge, expensive, tax, Social Security, the estate tax, and the So what will you do with that money with — your customers or your em- intrusive, and meddling government that gift tax. A world of benefits would quickly when they no longer take it away from ployer — meaning that people will have once was and that we should be on guard come in the wake of repealing these taxes. you? more money to spend on what you have against forever. The first benefit is the most- obvi • Will you put your children in private to offer. That can come only after we repeal ous: all the money you’re paying in in- schools — where you could get exactly the income tax and reduce the federal gov- come taxes will be yours — to spend, to • A similar increase in take-home pay will the kind of education you believe best ernment to a size that can subsist on just save, to give away as you see fit, not as the occur throughout America, unleash- for them? the tariffs and excise taxes already being politicians think is best for you, best for ing the biggest boost in prosperity that collected. No flat tax, no “fair” tax, no the nation, and — most of all — best for • Will you start that business you’ve al- America has ever seen. There will be replacement tax of any kind — because themselves. ways dreamed of? a job for everyone who can work and charity for everyone who can’t. government has been made so small an in- You are the one who gets up every • Will you move into a better neighbor- come tax is no longer needed to finance it. day to go to work. You’re the one who puts hood, take your family on a better vaca- • Your life will be your own again: an end Today governments at all levels take in long hours. You’re the one who makes tion, arrange a much more comfortable to government snooping into your fi- 47% of the national income. That means your job what it is. and much more secure retirement? nances, an end to keeping books for the you work nearly half your life to support What have the politicians done to • Will you help your church or your fa- continued on page 13... the welfare state. And now there’s no topic earn that money?

Abolish IRS NOW importantly, it will transfer wealth out of the wasteful, dysfunctional and destructive ...continued from page 8 Illegal power grabs: One government sector and into the productive give back an average of more than $12,000 private sector, resulting in a bounty of new to every family in America.” jobs and prosperity for Americans.” more reason to abolish IRS “We don’t need an income tax, and “We will make living in America we certainly don’t need the IRS,” Howell and doing business in America much bet- t’s bad enough license many tax return preparers and to said. ter,” Howell said. “Individuals, business- that Congress assess annual fees,” Buckley said. “There The Libertarian Party is the only es, and political organizations will all be has relegated is absolutely no statutory basis for this political party in America calling for I safe from government interrogation and to the IRS extraor- regulatory scheme.” both dismantling the IRS altogether free to express their political views. It dinary authority to Thankfully, the IRS licensing man- and dramatically and immediately will dramatically increase the wealth of create regulations. date was struck down in a lawsuit (the downsizing Big Government. the private sector and inspire hundreds of It’s worse that, even IRS is appealing). A lawsuit challenging “The Libertarian Party is running billions of dollars in investment in small when Congress re- the fees was dismissed, but another one, candidates to dramatically downsize the businesses and American jobs.” frains, the IRS is Allen Buckley brought by Buckley, is pending in U.S. federal government,” Howell said. “We Another benefit of abolishing the creating new regu- District Court. can cut federal spending by 50 percent, IRS is that it would become far more lations and taxes in defiance of the law. According to Buckley, the Obama or even 90 percent, and Americans will difficult to fund massive interventionist According to attorney Allen Buck- administration is creating law through be better for it. We can end the personal military presence and warfare around the ley, who was the 2004 and 2008 Libertar- regulations “to a level not seen since the income tax, the corporate income tax, the globe. ian candidate for U.S. Senate in Georgia, days of FDR. Regulations issued without death tax, and all federal payroll taxes. “It will also require our military the IRS reached new levels of power grab- statutory authority are now a common There will be no need for the IRS, nor budgets to go way down, which cur- bing in 2010, aimed at tax preparers. practice.” any substitute agency.” rently encourage overseas meddling and “After eight unsuccessful attempts Should Buckley’s lawsuit win, it “Ending the income tax, abolishing war,” Howell said. “We get rid of the to pass bills that would have permitted the would reverse the IRS fees now assessed the IRS, and cutting federal spending to IRS, we get rid of the income tax, we IRS to regulate the tax return preparation on the tax preparer industry. But, as long the level of 1992 means no more deficit dramatically downsize federal spending industry, the U.S. Treasury Department as there’s an IRS, more power grabs are to spending,” Howell said. “This will stop and taxation, and America and the world issued regulations based on recommen- be expected. One more reason to abolish inflation and stabilize prices. Even more will be better for it.” dations of the IRS that permit the IRS to the IRS. Page 10 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org June 2013

Affiliate News And Events

Affiliate news and events are a significant jump in voter registration provided to LP News by totals. Libertarian Party state affiliates. Statewide registration increased 2.61 percent. Democrat registration in- creased 1.21 percent. Republican reg- istration increased 3.80 percent. Lib- 44% growth in registered Libertarians ertarian registration increased 46.60 percent. OW! That shows how much This clearly shows that we have energy and enthusiasm we had momentum in our favor. Now, we need to Wat the state convention held on capitalize upon it. We need more people. March 31. Special thanks to Dianna Visek, We need this trend to continue. Many still Libertarian Party Regional Representa- don’t even know how to register to vote as tive, for being our guest speaker. a Libertarian. Many Iowans are finding that Lib- law did not provide for ertarian Party ideas are very appealing, tracking of voters who sought to be reg- as registered Libertarian voters in Iowa istered as Libertarian until Jan. 1, 2006. increased by 44 percent in the past The party first bought a copy of the state- year. Paid Iowa and national Libertarian wide list in Sept. 2006 (the graph’s first Party members increased by 17 percent The Missoula County LP in Montana participated in the Missoula St. Patrick’s Day parade with data point), and has purchased copies in this entry promoting the party. in the past year. We had several people 2010 and 2012. The LPKY will continue in attendance at the convention who in- to monitor and report our progress as we dicated that they are considering running increase our numbers statewide. party. You can find a local meeting on our for public office in 2013 or 2014. Officers Other noteworthy things: website, LPKY.org. Montana Working to defeat “top-two” legislation were elected to lead the state party for We now have five of six district As the weather gets nicer, we’ll use the next two years: Keith Laube, chair; parties operational. The fifth district is the LP door hangers we have to promote he last day to file for local elections in Ed Wright, advocacy and public policy forming now. We have two county parties the party to unaffiliated voters, wherever Montana is June 27. Several people chair and vice chair; Bill Steppan, secre- operational, in Campbell and Boone coun- people want to do the work — 4.5 hours have indicated a willingness to be- tary; Tim Hird, treasurer; Austin Griffith, ties, and have Kenton County spinning up of door hanging will count as a service ex- T come candidates. Contact your local county membership and development; and Chris in May. A few other counties (Daviess, emption in lieu of payment of annual dues elections office for more information. Honeck, campaigns and elections. Spe- Fayette, Grant, Pendleton, Marshall, and ($30). The area can be your local voting In March, the Missoula County LP cial thanks to Ed Wright for serving two Warren counties) have expressed interest precinct. This is a great way to spend a few had an entry in the Missoula St. Patrick’s terms as the state party chair. in starting the affiliation process as well. hours helping to expose other people who Day parade. The Ravalli County LP had a The Iowa Libertarian Party will This is a very good time to get involved in aren’t blinded by the old parties to the Lib- parade entry in the May 27 Corvallis Me- work to accomplish the following goals in the LPKY at a local level, as we grow the ertarian Party. the next year: morial Day Parade. Thanks to Jeff Fisher • Update the party website Registered Kentucky Libertarians, 2006–13 for his help. In 2008, the Ravalli County LP had taken best of class and best of • Increase communication with registered show in the parade. Libertarian voters through social media The Montana LP attended several • Increase the number of Libertarian reg- hearings of the Montana Legislature this istered voters and party members year. On Feb. 19, 2012, Libertarian U.S • Increase the number of Libertarian Senate candidate Dan Cox helped defeat candidates H.B. 439, the first of two “top-two” bills introduced in this year’s session. The other It is a great time to be a Libertarian! top-two bill, S.B. 408, was streamrolled through both House and Senate commit- tees and will be decided by the voters of Montana in 2014. Kentucky The Montana Legislature has the Libertarian registration increases 46.6% option of bypassing the governor’s desk when the majority feels a governor’s veto he LPKY has now had good voter may happen. The Republicans were the registration data for a year, be- majority, but didn’t have the votes for veto tween May 22, 2012, and May 21, T override power. The MTLP put together 2013. These numbers are provided by the State Board of Elections. The LPKY saw continued on page 11... Vol. 43, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 11

various events on April 26 and April 27 For more details on the Ohio Liber- in Granville, Ohio. tarian Party, go to LPO.org. Affiliate News And Events On Friday night, the LPO hosted a special event at the Buxton Inn, with Judge James Gray as the headliner. On ...continued from page 10 and non-members alike informed of LPNM Saturday, the LPO conference was held Texas some information on the top-two concept events and activities around the state. across the street at the Granville Inn. Looking for Lone Star liberty candidates and distributed copies to all 150 legisla- The morning started off with an annual tors. Republicans in Washington, Oregon, report from state chair Kevin Knedler, he party is currently interview- , and Arizona all opposed top- and was followed by Division reports ing candidates for executive di- two. State Chair Mike Fellows spoke North Carolina from directors Aaron Harris, Brad Low- Trector. More than 40 candidates against S.B. 408 in the House State Ad- Libertarian registration surpasses 20,000 ry, Bob Bridges, Michael Johnson, and have been considered for the position. It ministration committee in April. We have Joe Hassen. The balance of the day fea- is expected that the party’s state commit- a lot work ahead of us on this issue. For 0,000! That’s right, the number of tured various seminars and workshops. tee (SLECT) will make a decision on this full details, see the article on page 14. registered Libertarians in North Our annual awards presentation was very important item at the June 29 meet- People willing to donate on this issue Carolina, according to the NC Board held at the luncheon. Special thanks to ing in Waco. 2 LNC Chairman Geoffrey Neale and his The critical concern is funding. The can visit MTLP.org for more information. of Elections, crossed the 20,000 mark re- We are working on some meetings cently. Our next challenge is to get these wife Nancy for attending the Ohio Con- party is making progress on its fundraising this summer, and getting some booths at new members active and communicating ference. effort to make the executive director posi- local county fairs, including Gallatin, Mis- with the party. Ideas welcome. July 27 is the date for the annual tion viable. soula, Ravalli, Flathead, and Yellowstone. Please “like” our Facebook page: LPO cookout and fundraiser. It will “Since 2004, we have proven that a If you want to help in these outreach proj- facebook.com/LPofNC again be held at the Tiller Lane office capable and effective executive director is ects, contact the MTLP. The NC Democrats are only about complex. Starting time will be 4 p.m. Fi- an essential component of supporting our 800 likes ahead of us, and if we can sur- nance Director Joe Hassen will be the lead candidates, local leaders, membership, pass them we will broadcast it across North on this fun event. Details and pricing will and activists,” LP Texas Chair Pat Dixon Carolina and beyond. Despite which state be announced soon. If you want more in- said. “I am confident that the ‘LAUNCH you’re from, please like our page. formation, go to LPO.org or contact Joe at 2014’ campaign can grow the party and set New website, Facebook page, e-newsletter LPNC Convention was held on June [email protected]. new records in the 2014 election, if we can 7, 8, and 9 in Flat Rock, NC. Flat Rock Political Director Bob Bridges close the fundraising gap to hire an execu- he New Mexico Libertarian Party is in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the per- and Deputy Director Paul Hinds are tive director on June 29.” elected a new executive committee fect place for a long summer weekend. busy networking with potential 2014 The Libertarian Party of Texas has at its annual convention on May 4. Michael Cloud, Evan McMahon, Micheal candidates. They will also be con- a tradition of putting more Libertarians T ducting candidate training workshops on the ballot than any other state. The Serving as chair is Mike Blessing; as vice Pearlmutter, Brett Bittner, and Carla How- chair, Elizabeth Hanes; as secretary, Eli- ell all presented. during 2013. It’s important that the “Launch 2014” campaign hopes to break sheva Levin; and, as treasurer, Allen Cog- LPNC has been working with the candidates be prepared and start their all previous records. bill. Newly elected Central Committee office of NC Rep. Paul Stam to leg- petitioning in summer 2013. For more The party is challenged this year members include Mike McConnell, Marty islation to initiate a (very narrow) school details, contact Bob and Paul via email with a significantly compressed schedule. Swinney, Ron Bjornstad, Bruce Levin, voucher plan for less fortunate children. at [email protected]. The state legislature passed new election Sherry Heim, and Lee Hanes. Not exactly what the LPNC would have Congratulations to new LPO IT laws in the 2013 session that would move Also at the convention, webmaster proposed, but a step in the right direction. Director Michael Johnston. With any filing deadlines and the state convention Nick del Castillo was recognized for design- Mitch Bridges, our intern from Ap- volunteer organization, there is going to date earlier. The business of recruiting ing a new website, complete with new state palachian State University, has finished his be turnover. Fortunately, the Ohio team candidates will be much shorter. party logo and collateral images. The New internship and is now becoming involved is building a bench to address these chal- Regional conferences are also being Mexico LP recently debuted a new Face- in other areas of the party. lenges. Michael is our fifth IT Director planned for the fall to support candidates book page and soon will begin publishing Buncombe County (the Asheville in three years, but is ready for the chal- and county leaders. Depending on state an electronic newsletter to keep members area) is our electoral target for 2013. Bun- lenge. His main focus will be the Libertas party finances, the intent is to hold day combe has one of our highest concentrations IT project launch. This will include a new -long conferences in four or more loca- Want even more of Libertarian voters, and five seats are avail- website and database. tions around the state. able. Because of a lawsuit with the state and A reminder that the LP National Texans who are interested in repre- frequent updates from the Republican governor, House, and Sen- Convention will be held in Columbus, senting the Libertarian Party on the ballot LP Headquarters? ate, the Republicans have announced they Ohio, in 2014. During the recent confer- are encouraged to contact Heather Fazio at will run no candidates. Offer accepted! ence in Granville, LNC Chairman Geof- (512) 291-6671 or [email protected]. Become a monthly pledger frey Neale and National Convention Chair Candidate resources can be found at our and receive Liberty Pledge. Nancy Neale toured the downtown Co- website, www.LPTexas.org. lumbus Hyatt and area attractions. They If you are in a county where no Your monthly contributions Ohio were joined by LPO Field Development county organization exists, the party is will be used to grow the LP Preparing for 2014 national convention Director Brad Lowry. State Chair Kevin always looking for new leadership to help and make it stronger. Knedler joined them for dinner on Thurs- at the local level. Libertarians interested he LPO had its most success- day night. in serving as county chair can contact Visit www.lp.org/contribute For answers to questions, please state chair Pat Dixon at (512) 771-3936 to make your pledge today! ful state conference in memory. TMore than 60 people attended email the LPO at [email protected]. or [email protected]. Page 12 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org June 2013 GOP allies in MI courts subvert justice to block LP competition n May 1, Judges These public officials, along with the Republican Party, subverted the rule of law by keeping er wrote. “John Anderson ap- John Rogers, Damon 2012 Libertarian Party presidential candidate Gov. off the Michigan ballot in peared on the primary ballot OKeith, and Boyce the November election — in a callous display of indifference to voter rights. and polled 48,947 votes, 8% Martin of the U.S. Court of of the total. And he also ap- Appeals for the Sixth Circuit peared on the November bal- upheld a Michigan district lot that year in Michigan as a court decision that barred minor party nominee.” 2012 Libertarian presidential Winger noted that a nominee Gov. Gary John- valid method for indepen- son from the ballot, striking dent candidates to appear a blow against ballot access on the Michigan presidential and voter choice. ballot had been established Ruth Johnson Judge Paul Borman Judge John Rogers Judge Damon Keith Judge Boyce Martin Counsel for the Liber- Michigan Secretary Eastern District U.S. Court of Appeals, U.S. Court of Appeals, U.S. Court of Appeals, by the 1976 campaign of Eu- tarian National Committee, of State of Michigan Sixth Circuit Sixth Circuit Sixth Circuit gene McCarthy and the 1980 Attorney Gary Sinawski, campaign of Gus Hall. filed for a rehearing on May 15. his party affiliation to Libertarian. - Bor John Anderson, who first ran as a Repub- Winger also pointed out that the Republicans operatives and their man used Michigan’s “sore loser” law, lican and later as an Independent and set “sore loser” statute was not applied to the allies in government are concocting ex- which prohibits candidates from running precedent that the “sore loser” statute did presidential campaign of Theodore Roos- cuses to block Libertarian competition. on a party ticket once they’ve been on the not apply in the presidential race. Bor- evelt. Only in 2012, against Johnson, did In 2012, Republican Secretary of State primary ballot with another political par- man asserted, however, that the case did a court rule that “sore loser” laws apply to Ruth Johnson, through a series of unfair ty, as his reason to deny Johnson’s ballot not establish precedent because Anderson presidential primaries. rulings and delays, blocked Gov Gary access. But the “sore loser” law has never had not actually appeared on the Republi- The stepped-up Republican at- Johnson from appearing on Michigan’s been upheld in Michigan, nor in any state. can primary ballot. tacks on Libertarian candidates seen in general election ballot. Many candidates over the last 100 years As , publisher of 2012 is a sign that Libertarian ideas are On Sept. 6, U.S. District Court have appeared on presidential ballots de- Ballot Access News, pointed out, this as- gaining acceptance — and votes. The Judge Paul Borman upheld her ruling — spite being in the same circumstances as sertion is false. Libertarian Party plans to continue to with a lie. Johnson. “Anderson’s name did appear on the fight GOP assaults and to give voters Johnson had been on the Republi- To justify his ruling, Borman cited Republican presidential primary ballot in a choice for much less government and can ballot in the primary before changing the case of 1980 presidential candidate 1980 and his votes were counted,” Wing- more freedom. Gov. Johnson campaign takes on Commission on Presidential Debates ov. Gary Johnson, the 2012 Lib- president.” ertarian Party presidential nomi- Gov. Gary Johnson in two-way presidential polling against Pres. Barack Obama The CPD has close ties to the Re- Gnee, has taken the Commission publican and Democratic parties. The on Presidential Debates (CPD) to court RNC chairman serves on the CPD’s for excluding him from all three presiden- board of directors. tial debates last fall. The CPD excluded Johnson’s lawsuit invokes the Sher- Johnson despite his polling above the man Antitrust Act, which was passed in threshold set by the CPD to qualify can- the late 19th century to allow the federal didates for participation. government to regulate against monopo- The CPD requires that presidential lies involved in interstate commerce. The candidates poll at 15 percent or higher suit alleges that restricting Gary Johnson in five recent polls. Johnson easily ex- 15% CPD Threshold from the debates qualifies as a “restraint ceeded that requirement in seven sepa- of trade.” rate polls. Ballot Access News reported on The CPD’s rules did not specify May 31 that the lawsuit remains active, which opposing candidates must be in- (LASPAC) headed by Wes Benedict. these numbers, the Johnson campaign pending in federal court in Orange Coun- cluded in the polls, so the Johnson cam- Johnson polled at 19 percent and 24 per- filed a complaint against the CPD, the ty, Calif. A status conference is scheduled paign commissioned five separate poll- cent in the LASPAC polls. Democratic National Committee (DNC), for July 11. ing firms to conduct one-on-one polling “Our poll used the exact same ques- and the Republican National Committee “Someone has to stand up and call between Johnson and President Barack tion as a poll used in a run-up (RNC) on Oct. 18. The complaint argued this what it is — a rigged system de- Obama. Johnson easily exceeded the between Republican and that the defendants had prohibited John- signed entirely to protect and perpetuate CPD’s requirement with percentages Democrat Barack Obama, only we sub- son from participation in the debates in the two-party duopoly,” Johnson spokes- ranging from 23 to 46. stituted Libertarian Gary Johnson’s name order “to conspire and contract between man Ron Nielson said to U.S. News & Two additional polls were conduct- in place of Romney’s,” Benedict said. and amongst themselves to monopolize World Report. “That someone will be the ed by the Libertarian Action Super PAC Excluded from the debates despite the field in the race for president and vice Johnson campaign.” Vol. 43, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 13 LP signs on to amicus brief in lawsuit to remove limits on political speech he Libertarian National This gives them a monopoly over unregulated speech when Committee has signed on to “One of the dirty little secrets covering campaigns. They are free to cover candidates as Tan amicus brief in a lawsuit, of politics is that incumbents much or in any manner they wish. They are free to edito- McCutcheon v. Federal Election rialize in favor of or against particular candidates — while Commission (FEC), which chal- have rigged almost every law competing campaigns are saddled with contribution limits, lenges the FEC’s limits on how that bears on elections to favor restrictions, and reporting requirements. much people can contribute to po- Campaign regulations further stifle political litical campaigns. establishment candidates.” speech by requiring campaigns to reveal their donors’ A favorable ruling could con- Atty. William J. Olson — Atty. William J. Olson identity, which the FEC publicizes on the Internet. Me- tinue the work began by Citizens dia outlets sometimes use this information to publicly United v. FEC in 2010, further abolishing restrictions on the amicus brief, says that this argument only veils the attack candidates while their own political agenda re- political speech expenditures. The U.S. Supreme Court desire of incumbent politicians to further stack the elec- mains unexamined. agreed on Feb. 19 to hear the case in its upcoming term, toral deck in their favor. Campaign finance laws empower the mainstream late in 2013 or early in 2014. “One of the dirty little secrets of politics is that media to make or break candidates for public office — an The Libertarian Party stands firmly in favor of the incumbents have rigged almost every law that bears on extraordinary power that they jealously guard. Libertarian fundamental right to freedom of speech and freedom of elections to favor establishment candidates,” he wrote. candidates are more often among those they break than the press represented by the First Amendment to the Con- The mainstream media also advocates campaign those they make. stitution. A right to free speech is nearly meaningless if regulations that, they claim, prevent wealthy interests Olson’s amicus brief, representing the LNC and it’s not accompanied by the right to pay for the dissemi- from dominating politics. In practice, however, campaign several other groups, aims to correct the unfair advantag- nation of one’s views, which is why the LP platform calls finance laws magnify the voices of powerful, moneyed es enjoyed by incumbents and the media and give donors for “the repeal of all laws which restrict voluntary financ- special interests, which are better equipped to both com- to campaigns the same unfettered right to express politi- ing of election campaigns.” ply with and circumvent the laws, while squelching the cal viewpoints. A favorable ruling on McCutcheon v. FEC Incumbent politicians argue that campaign regula- voice of everyday citizens. could have a profound impact on Libertarian campaigns, tions help to create “fairer practices” in the political sys- The mainstream media has a strong incentive to lob- allowing candidates to receive unlimited donations from tem. However, Attorney William J. Olson, the author of by in favor of campaign laws, from which they are exempt. wealthy individuals.

End the income tax Simple and direct Libertarian Solutions win votes ...continued from page 9 ne Libertarian candidate runs out their day. For many, politics is not a There are many simple, direct, and IRS, an end to fear of an audit, an for state office on this sales tax high priority. And even when it is, they attractive Libertarian Solutions end to rearranging your financial life cut: have family and work obligations that O for shrinking all levels of govern- to minimize your tax burden. If elected, I’ll champion a bill to ment: federal, state, and local. A leave them with precious little time. The end the state sales tax — now. list of examples can be found here: only exposure to a candidate they get may And there’s a fifth benefit that’s probably the greatest of all: No longer Another Libertarian candidate runs www.lp.org/sample-solutions come from a sentence they read in a news will the federal government have the for state office on a different sales tax cut: If you have ideas for more, please article, a sound bite on TV or radio, a tweet or a Facebook meme. resources to run our lives. It will be un- If elected, I’ll champion a bill to send them to [email protected]. That gives a candidate about 15 to 50 able to continue ruining what was once replace 2 percent of the 5 percent town — but not yours. Maybe you’ll end words to make his entire campaign pitch. the best health-care system the world state sales tax you now pay with a up with higher taxes because politicians In order to lay out a Libertarian Solution has ever known, destroying American local sales tax. Officials in the lo- will amend the candidate’s bill to keep the and its benefits in this short segment of education, making millions of people cal towns will want to compete for state sales tax rate at 5 percent — while time, it must be simple and straightfor- dependent on welfare, subsidizing for- residents to move to, and stay in, adding a new local sales tax on top of it. ward. It must deal with a topic that voters eign dictators and meddling in explo- their towns. So they’ll have incen- As a voter, which of these two Lib- already understand so that it doesn’t need sive foreign affairs. tive to lower the new local sales ertarian Solutions is more likely to directly a lengthy explanation. Otherwise, it sim- tax. As a result, the total sales tax benefit you, your family and your commu- ply won’t fit, and voters won’t get to learn Our Chance you pay will go down. nity? Which one inspires you more to vote? how electing that candidate can make their Repealing the income tax is the The first Libertarian Solution to cut Over-complicated, Rube Goldberg lives better. The candidate will lose both issue on which we can rally Americans taxes is simple. Its meaning is instantly solutions leave voters confused, uncertain votes and potential supporters. to cut government truly to the bone clear. Its benefits are direct and believable. and uninspired. They’re easy to ignore. This is especially important for Lib- — the bone being the functions autho- The second Libertarian Solution to Effective Libertarian Solutions are ertarian candidates who typically get less rized in the Constitution. Without the cut taxes is complex and convoluted. You simple and direct enough for a 12-year- media coverage than their Democratic and resources to meddle in our lives, the might have to read it twice just to under- old child to understand. Their simplic- Republican opponents. government will have to withdraw to stand how it would work. ity makes them far more compelling and When candidates run on simple and the limits of the Constitution. You may doubt whether the second memorable. direct Libertarian Solutions, many more And the rewards it offers provide tax cut proposal would actually yield a tax Simple and direct solutions also save voters will both hear them and remem- an opportunity to reach all Americans cut for you. Maybe the candidate’s theory precious time on the campaign trail. ber them. And instead of scratching their with a message of a better life — when is wrong, and towns won’t try to lower People are busy. Loads of distrac- heads, they’ll be marking their calendars we celebrate Freedom Day instead of the tax. Maybe they’ll cut taxes in another tions compete for their attention through- to vote Libertarian on Election Day. Tax Day. Page 14 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org June 2013 GA Libertarian Bittner ...continued from page 5 LP battles GOP-sponsored top-two bills in Montana he Montana Republican Party referendum that would enable a six-year failed to win the U.S. Senate seat LP Montana Chair Mike Fellows was extension of a 1 percent sales tax that Tor the governor’s seat during the Bittner says is fueling the growth of local November 2012 election, and is blaming present at the Senate hearing, and government. the Libertarian Party for their loss. Rec- “I was the only one of the board to ognizing that the LP held the balance of described it as “a circus,” with Democrats vote against it, and so it passed,” Bittner power in Montana’s election, the Repub- said. “But the debate offered me an op- licans have decided to sponsor bills cre- pounding on their desks, yelling along portunity to present the Libertarian Party’s ating a top-two primary process, which view on this issue. And I was happy to see would eliminate Libertarian competition with people in the gallery, demanding to that the ward that I represent voted two-to- from the general ballot. be heard. one against this extension.” The Montana Libertarian Party has More will still need to be done, become a powerful deciding force in Bittner said, so this November he will recent elections. LP gubernatorial can- tomatically elected. That provision fortu- League of Women Voters, and the West- run again for a full four-year term. His didate Ron Vandevender earned 17,729 nately torpedoed the legislation. Several ern Native Voice. It was clear that the bill term expires at the end of the year. votes (3.7 percent), more than double people spoke against this bill, including had been aimed squarely at the Libertar- Bittner won the Marietta School Board the margin of difference between the Re- LP candidate Dan Cox. ian Party. Ward 1 seat in a July 31, 2012, special publican and Democratic candidate, and A second bill, S.B. 408, is nearly Although Fellows had traveled to election in which he ran unopposed to Senate candidate Dan Cox earned 31,287 identical to the first, except for the- re Helena in order to lobby against S.B. fill a vacancy created by the resignation votes (6.5 percent), 66.7 percent higher moval of the 50 percent provision. With- 408, the Republicans were determined to of Logan Weber. than the difference between the Republi- out public notice for the hearing, the send the issue directly to ballot, because Although candidates for the No- can and Democratic challengers. Secretary of State’s office was the only the Democratic governor would have al- vember election have not been an- Although Libertarian vote totals opposition presented in its committee most certainly vetoed it, and Republicans nounced yet, he suspects that he will face had increased by more than 10,000 be- hearing. Another bill heard in the same did not have enough members to override an opponent this time, and that the race tween the 2010 and 2012 elections, Cox’s committee would eliminating same-day the veto. will be intense. That is why he believes Republican opponent Rep. Denny Re- voting, which would negatively affect Montana Libertarians distributed bold Libertarian ideas will help him get hberg increased his 2010 totals by only the efforts of third parties to rally voter emails to several members of the House over the top. 355 votes. Millions of dollars were spent registration and support on Election Day. pointing out that Republican Arizona “I have already planted the seeds of a by Cox’s opponents in this race, with Both bills passed along party lines and Gov. Jan Brewer had opposed top-two proposal to refuse federal funding for our Democratic incumbent Jon Tester ulti- proceeded to the Senate floor. legislation in her own state, and they dis- school district altogether,” Bittner said. mately prevailing. LP Montana Chair Mike Fellows tributed 150 informational packets op- “Conversations have begun.” This didn’t sit well with Montana was present at the Senate hearing, and de- posing the bills to all House and Senate The Marietta School District com- Republicans, who soon began trying to scribed it as “a circus,” with Democrats members. prises 11 schools attended by about 8,200 prevent Libertarians from competing in pounding on their desks, yelling along The bill will place a top-two ref- students. Its current budget is approxi- general elections. The first Republican with people in the gallery, demanding to erendum on the general ballot in 2014, mately $100 million, 11 percent of which attempt to pass a top-two bill failed, but be heard. Despite the noise, the Republi- and would be devastating for Libertarian is provided by the federal government. the second passed — and will result in a cans passed S.B. 408. It also passed along Party participation in Montana elections, “The trick is that federal money top-two referendum on the 2014 ballot. predominantly party lines in an executive allowing the Montana Republican Party comes with many conditions attached that Republican Rep. Scott Reichner committee session and in the state House. to eliminate competition from the general have to do with class sizes, school lunches sponsored the first bill, which would Fellows spoke in opposition to S.B. election. The Montana LP intends to fight and so-called lower-performing schools have allowed anyone in the primary who 408 at an April 15 hearing, along with this measure vigorously. Those wishing that cost us 14 percent of our budget to received more than 50 percent to be au- others including the secretary of state, the to donate or help may visit MTLP.org. implement,” Bittner said. “In other words, we have to spend $14 to get $11.” He said that this arrangement does Boston bombing force to fight it off, we can create a new stimulate the private sector economy, not make sense — not only to him, but to ...continued from page 8 alliance at that time. creating job growth. many other board members. That is why, for their own defense, and our military 5. Immediately reduce military spending “The United States’ vast military in his view, the dialogue on this subject “is bases in less friendly areas serve to cre- by 60 percent or more. When compa- arsenal is much too big, wildly over- moving in the right direction.” ate more enemies. nies like Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, priced, and morally unjustifiable. In ad- In the run-up to the November and Northrup Grumman profit from dition, high government spending to fund 4. Immediately end all military alli- polls, Bittner said he wants to build alli- war, they have a powerful incentive to the military contributes significantly to ances, including those associated with ances to get across the Libertarian mes- use their influence to encourage -mili inflation and the risk of an economic col- NATO. The Cold War is over. We have sage of small government and start act- tary conflict. Canceling multi-billion- lapse,” said Geoffrey J. Neale, chair of enough nuclear weapons to destroy ev- ing on it. dollar contracts for unneeded fighter the Libertarian National Committee. “By ery country on earth. No country can planes, ships, and other military equip- dramatically reducing military spending “We can’t change overnight, but we reasonably declare war on the United ment will reduce the incentive to lobby and adopting a noninterventionist foreign can do better with a different approach to States. The kind of terrorism we deal for military adventurism. Associated policy, we will foster peace throughout funding, matriculation, and other issues,” with cannot be addressed by massive cuts in government spending will re- the world, preserve Americans’ wealth, Bittner concluded. “We can be moving in military alliances. If a threat were to duce the deficit, reduce inflation, and and make America safe.” the Libertarian direction.” arise large enough to require an allied Vol. 43, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 15 For Libertarians, best defense is relentless offense By Carla Howell, with minimal government will be LNC Executive Director dramatically better than it is today. We must pitch Libertarian ig Government advocates Solutions persuasively and relent- are pumping out proposals lessly. Our candidates and spokes- for expanding government person must lead the charge for less B government and more liberty. Our every hour of every day. Where are the proposals for less government? activists and supporters must inter- Many libertarians today who ject Libertarian solutions into their want much less Big Government are emails, their Facebook posts, their on the defensive. They’re fighting to tweets, and their everyday conver- stop more Big Government — rather sations whenever possible. than advocating measures that will reduce Big Government. Going on the offensive creates Self-described libertarians talk mandates for less government about what’s wrong with Big Gov- By running for office on small ernment, often brilliantly. But they government, Libertarian propos- routinely neglect to offer a Liber- als and featuring them prominently tarian solution to shrink it. To show in campaigns, elected Libertarians how to get from today’s Big Gov- create a mandate for implementing ernment to a much smaller govern- those proposals when elected. They ment that protects our lives, liberty can then say, “I got elected on my and property — and no more. To ad- proposal to [Libertarian solution to vance a libertarian agenda. shrink government], so that’s what They talk about the Constitu- we’re going to do.” This is their tion, US history, failed government most powerful tool for shrinking programs, voting procedures and all government while in office. variety of subjects with a pro-free- Illustration by Josh Wright for the game Who’s Driving?, which trains Libertarians to “seize the steering wheel.” Without such a mandate, dom point of view. But they squander the Government opponents. We’re allowing for freedom — and take control. We must elected Libertarians are much less able to opportunity to show how we can remove them to limit the parameters of political put Big Government in the back seat (or effect change. Special interests, govern- unconstitutional laws and regulations and discourse to Big Government — which leave it at the curb) — and grab the steer- ment employees, fellow politicians, and why doing so will make the lives of every- puts Big Government firmly in the driver’s ing wheel! the media will put constant pressure on day Americans dramatically better. seat. We’re helping to condition voters to We must supplant talk of endless Big them to go along with more Big Govern- When we play defense, or simply accept more Big Government — with no Government proposals with specific Lib- ment. They need a voter mandate to coun- neglect to spell out and call for ways to alternative in sight. ertarian solutions to shrink Big Govern- ter this pressure and to advance reductions dismantle Big Government, the only pro- We should not be surprised that the ment: in government. posals left on the table are those of our Big majority of voters in America — who • Dramatically lower taxes. Even when not elected, Libertarian Government opponents: new taxes, higher identify more with Libertarians than they candidates create mandates for less gov- taxes, more regulations, more prohibitions, do with either Democrats or Republicans • Remove government regulations. ernment and more freedom by publicizing more wars, more Big Government pro- — become complacent, stop voting, or • End prohibitions. and gaining acceptance for Libertarian grams, more bureaucracies, higher govern- even vote for Big Government candidates • Cancel Big Government programs. solutions. This can lead to those solutions ment spending, and more government debt. because more Big Government is the only eventually being enacted into law. Most newspapers, talk shows, and choice they ever see. • Withdraw from foreign entanglements. For example, Libertarian candidates news reports are devoid of a single pro- Libertarians must turn this around. • Dramatically reduce government spend- have run for office on ending the war on posal to shrink government. Most voters We must show voters how liberty is pos- ing. Cut NOW! marijuana and on marriage equality. Those have never heard one. sible by spelling out an agenda for less prohibitions have since been lifted in a You may hear talk of “spending government. By constantly putting forth • Pay off government debt. number of states, with many more moving cuts.” But almost invariably, the actual specific proposals, just as our opponents do • Dismantle thousands of unneeded fed- in this direction. Libertarians helped pave proposal being discussed increases gov- — but in the opposite direction. And show eral, state and local bureaucracies. the way to freedom simply by running on ernment spending! why they will yield huge benefits for voters bold Libertarian Solutions. So long as we allow this to continue, and for the people they love and care about. • Repeal thousands of laws. Rip ’em right The game Who’s Driving? trains and liberty loses. It keeps our Libertarian goal First, libertarians must wake up to out of the books! empowers Libertarians to go on the offen- of a small, constitutional government out how we’re being manipulated by allowing Then we must show how taking sive and to open up an exciting, life-alter- of reach. It keeps Big Government in the Big Government proposals to dominate these measures will make Americans ing conversation for freedom in America. driver’s seat — and keeps small govern- political discourse. freer, safer, more prosperous, better edu- To learn how to play Who’s Driving? ment tied and gagged in the trunk. Then we must fight back — and cated, and healthier. Why we’ll have more with your friends and area activists, visit: By neglecting to advance a libertar- turn Big Government conversations on peace, more justice, and more opportunity. www.lp.org/whos-driving ian agenda, we’re actually helping our Big their head! We must go on the offensive In short, how living in the United States Media Buzz About LP STAFF Important Change of Venue Notice the Libertarian Party LP NATIONAL CHAIRMAN July 2013 FreedomFest events “Looking for the hot new(ish) thing in Geoffrey J. Neale American politics? Try . Yes, that long-dismissed political phi- EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR moved to Planet Hollywood losophy that eschews government Carla Howell 3667 S. Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89109 intervention in favor of individual lib- erty is again coming into vogue, par- OPERATIONS DIRECTOR There was a last-minute change of venue for this year’s FreedomFest from ticularly among young voters.” Robert Kraus Caesar’s Palace to Planet Hollywood (down the street from Caesar’s). Washington Post, 6/9/2013 CANDIDATE AND AFFILIATE The Libertarian VIP Wine and Cheese Reception and the Libertarian National “The Libertarian Party definitely sees SUPPORT SPECIALIST Committee meeting have also been moved to Planet Hollywood. the likelihood of major political gains Bob Johnston Libertarian Party Events at FreedomFest amid the sensational revelations of a widespread surveillance program ASSOCIATE EDITOR & by the National Security Agency. TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPER Friday, July 12, 4:00 – 4:45 p.m. Gary Johnson, the 2012 Libertarian Eric D. Dixon Be Dangerous to Big Government — The Libertarian Challenge Presented by LNC Chair Geoffrey J. Neale and Executive Director Carla Howell presidential nominee, and Libertar- ian Party Executive Director Carla MEMBER SERVICES & AFFILIATE Sunset 5/6 Room, Planet Hollywood Howell both voiced confidence in RELATIONS MANAGER Friday, July 12, 6:30 p.m. interviews with Newsmax on Mon- Casey Hansen V.I.P. Wine and Cheese Reception day that the ongoing story about the Koi Lounge, Planet Hollywood agency’s Prism program would boost SPECIAL PROJECTS a political party that champions indi- Nick Dunbar $50 per person, includes wine & buffet (net proceeds to benefit the David F. Nolan Building Fund). Donors of $250 or more to the vidual freedoms.” MEMBER SERVICES SPECIALIST David F. Nolan Building Fund are invited free of charge. Newsmax, 6/11/2013 Molly Schwoppe Please visit www.lp.org/VIP-Reception to register. “Judge [Jim] Gray’s speech was one Sunday, July 14, 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. of the most exciting speeches I’d Libertarian National Committee Meeting heard from a Libertarian in a long Sunset 5/6 Room, Planet Hollywood time — not because I learned any- thing new about their philosophy — but because, if the Libertarian Party is now thinking this way about policy, What have you missed recently on LP.org? it could be in grave danger of being THE LIBERTARIAN PARTY® taken seriously, at last.” 2600 Virginia Ave. NW, Suite 200 • Hardy Macia, Libertarian activist and candidate, releases viral Huffington Post, 4/25/2013 Washington, DC 20037 video calling for legal home growing of medical marijuana (five Phone: (202) 333-0008 days before he died of cancer on May 13) “Idaho Chairman Rob Oates said the Fax: (202) 333-0072 Libertarian Party supports individual Web site: www.LP.org • Libertarian Arthur Thomas aims to shrink spending, debt in San liberty and personal responsibility Antonio and has become the third largest political party in America. Libertar- • Florida Libertarian Joseph Wendt nets 43% of vote on platform ians support the return of power to WHAT’S GOING ON to abolish his office individuals and believe the federal government has far exceeded its IN YOUR STATE? • Libertarian Chris Jenner wins college board election in Illinois, constitutional obligation.” hopes to slash millions in spending Idaho State Journal, 4/29/2013 A list of Libertarian events • Kansas Libertarians Ogle and Coen garner impressive vote “The Libertarian Party of Kansas can be found online at totals in city elections has experienced seven consecutive LP.org/event. You can get • Malterer for New Port Richey, FL, city council seeks cuts in years of increases in its number of more information by visiting business permitting, property taxes registered voters, including approxi- the website of your state mately 13 percent growth in the past • Overwhelming majority of Libertarians reject revenue-neutral 18 months.” affiliate. (See a list at LP.org/ tax proposals in poll Topeka Capital-Journal, 4/25/2013 states.) If there is an event you would like to see listed • Libertarian George Brown calls for end to corporate income tax, “[T]he newest revision to the Dis- reducing power of government unions in PA House race trict’s voter registration form in- on the website, please send cludes the Libertarian Party as one details to: • Libertarian John Wayne Smith aims to downsize government as of the printed choices. Though they Florida’s governor have never held elected office in the District, the Libertarians finally • Libertarian Party: Cut government waste to fix dangerous achieved major-party status last [email protected] bridges year when Bruce Majors, a chal- lenger to Democratic Del. Eleanor OR CALL THE LP HEADQUARTERS AT • Why don’t Democrats (and most Republicans) apologize to the Holmes Norton, carried enough American people when the stock market goes up (making Social votes to secure formal recognition (202) 333-0008 Security a bad investment)? for their party organization.” DCist.com, 3/8/2013