An Independent Libertarian

Libertarians stand in a unique position in the political landscape. We do not have the luxury of voting across the board for Libertarian candidates due to the simple fact that we do not have candidates in every single race in the country. Thus, we get to choose from the two major parties, and perhaps occasionally another third party or an Independent.

To my way of thinking, this is splendid. I can exercise my independence by voting for the best candidate, regardless of party affiliation. This is the only prudent course for one to take IF one is concerned about personal integrity.

Integrity goes out the window if I vote for a candidate in one of the two major parties 'just to punish the other side,' or to attain 'gridlock in government.' Such notions are totally untenable to those of us who are concerned about personal integrity and voting for the best candidate for the job.

This is why the present call by some in the 'Libertarian Democrat' movement to vote for Democrats in exchange for some nebulous tip of the hat toward Libertarians, or to create gridlock in Washington, is one of the most repulsive proposals to come down the pike in a very long time. Such a thing flies in the face of principle, honesty, integrity, and trustworthiness.

As an Independent Libertarian I am free to vote for anyone, of any Party, who comes closest to embodying our ideals. Casting a vote for someone whose Party has created big government, sought to destroy 2nd Amendment rights, opposed almost every tax cut over the last 40 years, and looks with disdain on any movement that promotes private or homeschool education, is tantamount to betraying every single principle that Libertarians have stood for through the years.

Let's get our bearings about us again. Join me in casting your vote for the best candidate on the ticket. Use your head. Vote your conscience. Don't fall for ill-fated, underhanded schemes. Selling our birthright for a bowl of stew will come back to haunt us eventually.

Let's not make that mistake.