Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor,

I believe the problem the Libertarian Party faces is the idea that we are a Radical Political Party. People need easy access to well planned and detailed political policy. Perhaps an article in this newsletter going into policy more in depth.

I often find myself reading vague explanations of undetailed Libertarian ideas, mostly on a national level, and it always leaves me second guessing.

I also believe that we can never stop trying to reach new voters. As knowledge of the Libertarian Party grows new voters will come aboard. A lot of people do not know the power their vote holds. It’s our job as a new solution to educate these would be voters. It could be our key to victory.

Expand Knowledge; Expand Membership; Expand Votes; Expand Freedom!

P.S. $ Info on paying for a subscription?

Sincerely

Brennan Robbins

Kansas City, Missouri

Dear Mr. Robbins,

Thank you for your letter and for the several good points it makes.

The “Radical” label is something that, at least for some, will always be applied to Libertarians. Democrats label Republicans radical and vice versa, this is something that we shouldn’t be afraid of or pay much attention to. I personally consider sweeping and interfering growth of government as radical; Libertarian small government and personal sovereignty and responsibility are more natural and harmonious social goals and I suggest should be presented as such by Libertarian activists.

Easy access to well planned and detailed political policy is another topic you mention and I agree that much of what the Libertarian Party presents is what we are against or what we describe a Libertarian society as being. There is a wealth of information on how to achieve a more free society, but sometimes the lines of communication get blocked and we who know don’t always effectively guide people who are looking for this knowledge. To our credit , Michael Ferguson has an article called “Political Malpractice” in this issue of SMF that not only describes a problem but offers more Libertarian solutions to that problem. I would also suggest that you look up Dr. Mary J. Ruwart’s site at www.ruwart.com or if you don’t have access to the internet check at your local library for her books; probably her most well known book is “Healing Our World: The Other Piece Of The Puzzle.” Also ask about other books about the Libertarian Party and it’s policies.

Politically Homeless Booths and Tax Day Protest outreach programs are a great way to increase the publics knowledge about the Libertarian Party and it’s philosophy, but I personally believe that our best advertisement is voters who see Libertarian candidates every time they go to the polls. This probably more than anything shows the public that the Libertarian Party is a political movement that is a traditional and influential part of the political landscape. Libertarian candidates being present on every ballot will tweak the interests of some and they may inquire about the party. That is how I first learned about the party, something as simple as a candidate on a ballot.

I am glad that you are a Libertarian and I agree with your comments “Expand Knowledge; Expand Membership; Expand Votes; Expand Freedom!” Keep up the good fight.

In response to subscriptions, although membership in Missouri is free and includes a membership card, a bumpers ticker and three free issues of the “Show Me Freedom” state newsletter, the best deal for you and for us is a full annual membership in both the state and national organizations, it costs $25.00 and you receive a national membership card, the monthly national “LP News”, as well as the quarterly “Show Me Freedom” state newsletter and full voting privileges at the state convention. For more information or to join please send your name, address and zip. and optional phone number and email address to: Missouri Libertarian Party, P.O. Box 78623, St. Louis, MO 63178-8623 or call our toll-free number at 1-877-VOTE-4-US, 1-877-868-3487.

Thank you again Mr. Robbins for your letter,

Kevin Joseph Tull

Editor, Show Me Freedom