Libertarian America - Bruce Cohen

Talk Block with Ron Paul

2011-12-30T18:21:00.000-08:00

I recently was sent the Foreign Policy Statement from the Ron Paul Campaign by a friendly Ron Paul supporter.

My Response:
"all those points are very good ones and even the ones I disagree with have merit behind them.

I WANT to discuss those issues. Discuss them with you, with Ron Paul, and with the rest of the LP and the wider libertarian movement.

And yet, there's the rub.

When people Ron Disagrees with want to discuss Foreign Policy, for example, he gets all wound up and angry. He uses terms like "neocon" in an inappropriate and insulting manner, and frankly a clearly incorrectly.

I don't appreciate him shutting down discussion by calling anyone names, much less calling me a "neocon".

I also don't like him calling me a "Zionist" in an inappropriate and derogatory manner.

You see, through decades of being a leader and activist in the California LP and the wider libertarian and freedom movement of Southern California, I've become allergic to that.

For too many years, the Ron Paul disciples have all spoken to me, and about me in this kind of derogatory manner.

And you know what? After a while I realized I didn't have to keep my head down and take it anymore.

It cost me a few elections, but so what?

If I were President, and I never will be, I would not only want a Donald Rumsfield as a foreign policy advisor, but I would also want a Ron Paul type. He'd have to deal with the racism problem first, but certainly his type of philosophy.

You see, I'm all for being careful about spending money overseas in any way, and doing as little as possible, if in fact doing it not at all could be achieved, so much the better.

Ron Paul accuses me of being a profligate spender of the lives of young Americans. And it's just insulting.

He shuts me and anyone else down before we can even discuss the matter with him and frankly, I'm tired of having a conversational partner that doesn't want to converse.

I feel the same way about Israel and Hamasbollah.

Ron Paul doesn't care what I say or what my concerns are.And that's my problem with him on Foreign Policy.

I'm 100% good with his positions, minus the racism, to be worthwhile points that MUST be considered before we send children and rifles overseas to settle my personal interests.

I still want to know more about Newslettergate.

I have problems with the racist comments, the racists supporters, the racist newsletters, the meetings for lunch on Tuesday at Thai food or whatever it was that Doctor Paul has never denied meeting with these people for.

I want to know about his relationship with William Carto.

I want to know why he thinks Hezbamas and Iran are morally equivalent and even superior to Israel and for him to explain how Israel ripped anyone off, much less any Palestinian Arabs.

But it all comes back to the fact that Ron Paul and his staff, supporters and friends all call me names.

I don't appreciate the Jew Zionist Neocon crap every time I say I'm concerned about some Foreign Policy Issue.

And every time Ron Paul does so, I'm going to cry racist.

Gary Johnson Announces Libertarian Presidential Bid

2011-12-28T11:02:00.000-08:00

Gary Johnson had his much anticipated Press Conference this morning at 10 AM Mountain Time in the Capitol Rotunda of New Mexico.

He formally 'left' the GOP yesterday, and has absolutely milked every drop of PR possible out of the process of changing parties.

Good for him.

Gary clearly brings a new standard of quiet and professional competence and confidence to both the Libertarian Party and the 2012 Presidential Race.

Gary has all of the positives you can say about any of the Candidates in the other two parties, with none of the negatives.

Gary has none of the racist skeletons in his closet that Ron Paul has and none of the Socialist/Big Government skeletons of Romney and Gingrich.

What he does have is a track record of successful Governorship of New Mexico. He spoke today of having vetoed more Bills than every other Governor combined in the other 49 states.

Gary clearly counts better than Obama, who has the USA with 57.

Gary is also clearly pro Israel. He clearly pointed out that his position on Israel is one of the three major points he differs with Congressman Paul on.

Governor Johnson said: "Israel is and has been an important Military Ally."
'It's naive to think that Israel won't address the Iranian problem.'

'The US should not give Foreign Aid to Israel.'

'I wholeheartedly support ...continuing to be Israel's Ally Militarily.' (order of sentence halves reversed for clarity)

Gary wants to cut the Military Budget by 43%. He pointed out this only turns the budget clock back seven years. He also proposed that Military Alliances that cost money are not 'Foreign Aid'.

Gary took many digs at Obama and Paul, not the least of which was when he stated: "It's not the messenger, it's the message - it's the agenda", challenging the cult of personality.

Governor Johnson came across as humble, thoughtful, humorous, relaxed and confident.

Early on, he threw a lot of red meat to the Libertarian crowd stating, "The LP is the Third Party!" He further pointed out 61% of Americans are willing to vote Third Party.

Gary made the case for the Fair Tax, and while I personally disagree, his point that it was 'the best of the worst', and his explanations of how it would be an improvement over the current system are very persuasive and certainly could resonate with voters at least as much as the Herman Cain 9-9-9 plan.

Viewership of the live feed rose steadily throughout the Press Conference that began promptly on schedule. This is in direct contradiction to all LP events starting on 'Libertarian Standard Time'.

I caught the feed when it was in the high 600s, ending up at over 1850 viewers.
He raised $8,675.31 raised from 103 donors at end of Conference. Total event fundraising traditionally will be much higher than the first final number.

The Chairman of the Libertarian Party and several other Libertarians, notably California LP Candidate and big Marijuana Legalization guy Steve Collet were in the Audience.

Gary wants to immediately withdraw from Afghanistan, is against Eminent Domain for the Keystone Pipeline, and for term limits and free markets.

The free market thing may be the fourth place where he and Ron Paul differ, since it seems that Gary is not against NAFTAesque treaties.

The audience was smallish, but enthusiastic, and kept the Governor on his toes with a wide variety of questions.

Governor Johnson for President Website: http://www.garyjohnson2012.com/

Note: as of 45 minutes post Conference: $10,141.32 raised from 112 donors.

Breaking Live: Three Million Lives on the Line for Freedom!

2010-03-14T23:39:00.000-07:00

http://www.redshirttv.com/

Three Million protesters in Thailand are demanding the
corrupt and illegitimate government of Thailand step down.

This is the third day in a row that Bangkok is at a standstill.
All shops are shuttered and locked.
There is very little traffic except for the protestors and
the Army.

The protesters have given the Prime Minister ten
minutes to resign, or else.

The military is ready for a fight and has leveled
their weapons at the protestors and have stated
they are prepared to fire on them.

These are real freedom fighters, not some petty
folks defending bad behaving children in the LPCA.

http://www.redshirttv.com/

Even if you can't understand a word of Thai,
you can immediately get the gist of what's
happening and the emotions behind it.

All of Thailand is wearing red shirts today.

And so am I.

Good luck and bless these brave people.

I fear there will be blood spilled today.

I see no way out.

Libertarian Trial of the Decade!

2010-02-01T11:10:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's far more interesting and complicated than that, but I'm accussed of puffery and egaggeration far too much as it is.

I haven't been blogging for a long time, work, heath, travel, the sun was in my eyes, the other kids don't like me, I have 1000 excuses.

But there is just too much 'inside baseball' not to cover within the Libertarian Party of California that's not really being discussed elsewhere.

So, for the very few people who are interested in filling in the blanks about the ever deepening scandal and problem, this is one more place to go.

If you hate train wrecks, please look the other way.

About my upcoming trial:

First of all, allow me to have some fun.

This is the Defense's Theme song:

The Defense dedicates this to the Prosecution and their leader,

King Naga and his Knights of the Wobbly Table

Heads Will Roll

by the

Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Off with your head

Dance 'til you're dead

Heads will roll

On the Floor

You can last

Take the past

Shut your eyes

Realize

Off with your head

Dance 'til you're dead

People Don't Kill People, Buckets Kill People

2009-02-05T10:24:00.000-08:00

Home Depot - Baby Killer?

Regulated by:
The Department of Pools, Spas and Water

It's absolutely intolerable that the Obama administration is
ignoring this horrible threat to the life and safety of American
children that looms above us every day.

Buckets alone kill far more children than firearms.

Of course, we must move towards banning all private
swimming poools, since they kill even more children.

But American is not ready for that, so we must move
more slowly there.

We need to have mandatory swimming pool and
spa licensing and registration.

Pool and spa classes.
A waiting period for prospective pool and spa owners.
And a very strict licensing process for pool and spa
dealers and contractors.

Finally, to stimulate the economy, we need to create
a new Federal Department. The Department of Pools,
Spas and Water.

This will also be good for the environment. As you know
there is a horrible international drought and water shortage
CRISIS.

Greedy Republicans and Libertarians who use more
than their fair share of water must be reined in.

Copyright Bruce Cohen, February 2009

Founding Fathers or Funding Fathers? - Why the Bailout is NO Emergency.

2009-02-04T20:14:00.000-08:00

Founding Fathers or Funding Fathers?
Why the Bailout is NO Emergency.

I've been dreaming of the day when Democrats would
scream 'the sky is falling' and no one would listen.

Or at the very least, no one would believe them.

No, let's make that any politician, including
Republicans and even my own Libertarians.

And here we have it, where each day Nancy Pelosi
screams more loudly and more desperately about
what an emergency we have on our hands.

Make no mistake.
DC, we have a problem.

But it's not an emergency.

The emergency passed long ago, say during the
Clinton and Bush administrations, when the
watchdogs allowed Barney Frank and Barak
Hussein Obama to give and take financial favors,
and ignore fundamental economic principles
that lead us to where we are.

The GOP, so desperate to be 'kind and gentle'
mildly and meekly made a few demurring
statements about the problems, but put up
nary a fight, much less a protest.

And, despite my differences with Congressman
Ron Paul about Foreign Policy, here he is, right
about the big picture again.

And what did the wise old Paul tell us all
along, again and again?

He stated the obvious: We can't fight a war
or defend ourself if we're broke.

There is a tiny glimmer of hope in Congress,
finally. Now that the Republicans are in the
minority again, they standing against big
government spending. (Who knows why they
must be in the minority opposition to do so?)

And we're broke, people!
B-R-O-K-E

Our national debt exceeds the entire net worth
of every American, COMBINED, I'm told.

That's the very definition of being broke.

When you owe more money than you're worth.
And we are REALLY broke, because we are going
further and faster in the hole than ever before.
Fortunately, it seems that America is waking up.
America is against the so-called 'bailout'. Obama
and the Democrats realize that, and that's their
real hurry, where their emergency lies.

Because, it's their emergency, not ours.

There's another reason for the hurry.

Democrats know if they don't get this passed in
a hurry and they don't get their mitts on this
money, OUR money, and fast, they just might
not, because America, even on the liberal
coasts, is against this.

They want your money,

and they want it now.

They finally have an excuse to fund the social
engineering programs they have been dreaming
of for generations. Yes, the Marxists are here,
and they are not your friends.

And finally: They want someone to blame.

This is a delicate balancing act.

The Democrats and their leader Obama don't
know if the economy will pull out on their
watch or not. They don't really care, either.

But what they DO want is a scapegoat.
If they can't get this passed, and things don't
get better, they can blame it on us for not
letting them have the money to 'stimulate'.

As for me?

I prefer to keep the money right where it is now.

In your pocket and mine.

In the bank accounts and retirement funds
of the good Americans that earned it.

There is NO rush.
Take your time.

The longer it takes to pass this bill, the more time
America has to wake up and come out against it.
_____________
A special note of appreciation is due to the
the public figures who have been pointing this
out for some time and continue to:
Mark Levin, Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity,
Glenn Beck, Wayne Root, Michael Savage
and Michael Medved.

Ron Paul against Israel and the USA

2009-01-04T11:01:00.000-08:00

"Why can't Israel do what they think it's in its best interest without seeking approval from Washington?"

Ron Paul - 2008 Presidential Campaign Statement

Source:

http://snipurl.com/paul-israel

You'll want to watch this video, at least the first few minutes: http://www.lewrockwell.com/blog/lewrw/archives/024704.html

Note Congressman Paul says:

This is a "pre-emptive war" (It's not, and so what if it is?)
We should not choose sides - right or wrong
Since Hamas has fewer arms, Israel should not fight back
Fighting has been going on there for decades (So?)
The Arabs there have a tough life, so cut them some slack

Doctor Paul contradicts himself, clearly showing his bias.

He says the US gave them a 'green light', by not saying anything
against the Israeli military operation.

But all along, he's been saying the Israelis should be allowed by
us to fight back. He's also said we should stay out of it and not
tell Israel how to handle this problem.

Which is it? Stay out of it, or say no? One can't have it both ways.

This seems to prove the concerns that he's an anti-semite.
I find it hard to believe he can possibly talk out of both sides of
his mouth this way and not truly be anti-Israel and anti-Jew.

I say this as a supporter and defender and even a sometime
employee of Doctor Paul.

One worries when Ron Paul and Roseanne Barr agree.

This is not about American involvement. Ron Paul only
complains that we didn't say no to Israel, of course after
he's said for years American should not comment.

This is not about the deficit as America is not sending
any money to Israel to fund this war.

The only thing that has changed is that finally Israel is
responding to having their cities rocketed and bombed.

He also complains that Israel might turn off water
or traffic into the terrorist zones.

Well, if the terrorists hate Israel and Jews so much,
why don't they generate their own electricity and
grow their own vegetables.

When Israel pulled out of Gaza and forcibly expelled
the Jews who had lives, businesses and farms there,
all those buildings and businesses and farms were
left intact for the Gazans to use.

Did they?

No, they vandalized and destroyed it all.

I say shut them off and let them work their way out.
Better they should focus on growing carrots and
purifying drinking water than shooting rockets.

Where in the World is Wayne? (Allyn Root)

2008-12-03T13:19:00.000-08:00

Where in the World is Wayne?

Bruce Cohen - December 3, 2008

There was a lot of concern about

the so-called mainstream

candidacies of Libertarians Wayne
Root and Bob Barr.

This concern came from within the Libertarian

community, echoed in the mainstream press.

The concern was about the overlapping questions of Candidate

motivation, effectiveness and perseverance.

In other words, why are these people running?

How well will they do for our movement, our Party, our Brand?

And finally, how will they do after the election is over and the

bright lights are turned off?

It's no secret I'm a big fan of Wayne's, so don't be emailing

and blogging about how I'm biased. I'm going to stipulate

to that right up front here.

Post Election, Wayne hasn't let up at all.

His assertions that he was not a temp, but the real deal, hold

up just fine when looked at in the post-election light.

Wayne is still pounding the pavement for the Libertarian

Party, promoting our agenda and brand.

And doing so rather effectively.

During the election he shocked a lot of people by being the

first Libertarian VP Candidate to get so much major media

coverage, in fact, arguably more than Bob Barr, the top of

the ticket LP Candidate for President.

So he did well leading up to the election...

Did he go away, and prove right the folks making negative

predictions about him?

Not at all.

Since the election, he's continued to be a regular on

major media, appearing on both TV and radio to major

markets. Wayne has discussed everything from the

non-bailout 'bailout' to what it means for Obama to win.

Recently, he was on Fox News' top-rated business show,

Bulls & Bears. Watch it here: http://snipurl.com/730rc

Instead of giving up, he's increased his commitment to

the Libertarian Party and to our mutual effort to change

America for the better.

Wayne realizes the Libertarian Party is the only remaining

Political Party with any shot at change, or with any leverage

to truly make a difference.

He's still appearing on Neal Cavuto's FOX show, on a regular

basis, and nationally syndicated radio shows, such as the

Mancow Show and The Jerry Doyle Show.

Wayne has been appearing on Neil Cavuto more often

even than Ron Paul, another Libertarian hero.

Some of you may think it's a bit early to think about the

2012 election for President.

Wayne doesn't think so.

I agree.

What we need is a leader, a promoter and an organizer.

We need not just a pretty face, but someone that can

explain Economics to the average American, and make

the case for personal freedom from the standpoint of

a squeaky clean 'Boy Scout'.

And that's Wayne.

It's one thing for Cheech and Chong to make the case

against the War on Drugs, but when the tee-totaling

father of four home-schooled kids make the case, it

starts to gain credibility.

It's one thing for Atheist Penn Gillette to come out for

a wider separation between church and state, but when

Wayne, a born-again Christian with deep Jewish roots

does so, it's a big deal!

As a small businessman turned VP and Presidential

Candidate and Author, Wayne can rail against government

bureaucracy, overregulation and taxes like no one else.

And he does, all over the media!

Wayne is set for life, with a successful business, a beautiful

family and home and all the toys one might want; not to

mention an amazing job, traveling the world.

But he's not satisfied.

His newest book, "The Conscience of a Libertarian" is due
to be released, by one of the biggest publishers in the world,
by Christmas.

Wayne could be enjoying the holiday break. Instead, he's
writing six to eight hours a day- all for our Libertarian cause.

Wayne is someone who loves to build and improve things,
for himself, and those around him.

So, for those Libertarians and Americans who've been

asking themselves where Wayne is, be assured he's getting

less sleep than about anyone I know, working on his

marriage, family, business; for the Libertarian Party,and

on creating a successful Libertarian Presidential Campaign

in 2012.

And the book.

I'm watching Amazon for my first chance

to pre-order it.

Root versus Palin? Smearing the VP Candidates

2008-11-07T11:46:00.000-08:00

I read Michelle Malkin's most recent article, and
could not help but think how uncanny the parallels

between the McCain and Barr Campaigns were, as

well as the even deeper irony of how Palin and Root

performed, and in return, were mistreated.

No good deed goes unpunished.

[Note: Sarah Palin isn't really a Libertarian,
she only plays one on TV. Wayne Root is
the real deal, walking away from a near-
certain Senate seat to join the Libertarians.]

Malkin Article:
The cowardly character assassination of Sarah Palin
http://snipurl.com/57m9d

Uncanny the parallels.

The McCain Campaign was stuck in a rut.
Barr's as well.

Palin was inspiring, articulate, funny and likeable.
Root was too.

Palin got bigger crowds and more enthusiasm.
So did Root.

McCain's Staff Blew it on strategy, fundraising and
execution.
So did Barr's.

Palin worked her tush off to support McCain, never
saying a bad word about him or the Campaign.
Same as Root.

McCain's Staff worked to keep Palin out of the
limelight if/when they were both at the same event.
Just like Barr's people did with Root.

Read Michelle's article, but sub the names Barr for
McCain and Root for Palin.

"People who play fair, look good, have

successful lives and families get demonized

by the press and the left"

Libertarians have to get over the jealousy and
nastiness they're famous for.

Sarah and Wayne are both real Americans who know
what it's like to meet a payroll and pay taxes.

They know what it's like to meet the bills on a small
budget and survive in lean times.

They know how to face adversity without a
government paycheck or asking for a handout.

They also inspire jealousy from the left because of
their good looks and personal success.

Be prepared for the slime to come out when they
both run again. Personally, I look forward to a
Palin vs. Obama vs. Root election in 2012.

Partly because Palin has demonstrated her friendliness
and support of Libertarians in the past.

People who play fair, look good and have successful
lives and families get demonized - by the press and
the left. But then, I repeat myself.

Copyright Bruce Cohen - November 2008

Note: Many of Root's detractors said he'd leave the
LP for greener pastures immediately after the
election. But instead, he's already working on
his run for the LP nod in 2012.

Look for his book coming out Spring 2009:
The Conscience of a Libertarian

http://www.rootforamerica.com/

http://www.michellemalkin.com/

What's the Cure for Election Poisoning?

2008-11-03T15:46:00.000-08:00

What's the Cure for Election Poisoning?
'We had the best ticket ever and did nothing'

I'm feeling sick to my stomach right about now.

I've had this terrible queasy feeling for a while.

It's not what you think.

Sure, I'm totally disgusted with Barak Obama, the far
more evil of the two lessers.

But that's not it.

You bet I am totally unhappy and disillutioned about
the GOP's miserable choice of John McCain.

But that's not it either.

Yes, I'm disgusted that America is almost certainly
going to elect Obama as our President, a man who
holds no regard for the Constitution, the Bill of Rights,
not to mention personal or property rights.

But that's not why I'm feeling so sick.

I'm used to Democrats being Socialists and selling
everyone down the river, rich or poor. I'm used to
Republicans promising to be Constitutionloving tax
and spending cutters, but doing the opposite.

So what if Obama is a dishonest crook?
America hadthat in Bill Clinton for eight years.

So what if McCain is a kinder, gentler Socialist?
What do you call George Bush?

No, I'm so disgusted because my Party, the
Libertarian Party, has failed so miserably to have
any effect at all in this election.

"We never miss an opportunity to miss an opportunity. "*

Truly, in an election year, when we had arguably
the very best ticket we've ever had, as far as
saleablility to the American Voter, we did nothing
to take advantage of it.

The Barr Campaign is stuck in Neutral and the LP,
at leastat the national level, and in my state,
California, nothing much at all is being done to
promote what we have to offer to America.

In California, we have the fewest number of
Candidates on the ballot in recorded history.

The least we've had since our founding!

This under the so-called leadership of a CA State
Chair who had 'full slates' of Candidates his priority.

This is the same Chair who has publicly complained
"this job is too hard" (Why did you take it then?) and
"I can't get anyone to help me" (some leadership).

You bet I feel sick.

I've spent the majority of my adult life working for
the LP in one way or another, 20-60 hours a week.

To piggyback on Wayne Root's recent article, I'm
suffering from 'Abused Volunteer Syndrome'.**

"Mister Root is clearly the future of the LP
at the national level. Good looking, friendly,
likeable, ORGANIZED, articulate.. ."

Now it's my own fault, not insisting the things I know
]are needed were in place, but... We need to be prepared.

And we are not.

We need to have the LP on the ballot in all 50 states,
way ahead of time, and not, like we did this time,
operate by crisis management.

Worse yet, fail, then blame others, and then waste
money suing everyone imaginable.]

We need to get more people involved way ahead
of time, phone banking, fundraising, recruiting
volunteers and candidates.

And we need to act like professionals that your
neighbor wouldn't be ashamed of.
(Because we smell bad, dress crazy, have bad
tempers, or support legal child porn.)

But most important of all, we need to stop
reinventing the wheel.

I mean that from two perspectives.

Number one, the 'business of politics' is almost a
turn-key, franchise business.

To set up a solid and successful base ofo perations, we
just need to follow the successful business model
others have already set up.

No creativity required!

Secondly, we have to stop throwing away the work
and effort of this years when next year comes along.

We need to have a legacy plan for this effort.

From Volunteers to Candidates, we ought to set them
all up with guidebooks and guidelines. This way they
don't all get thrown into the water while we hope they
can swim.

Because otherwise they'll give up and not come back.

The LP could have made a very big splash in this
election if anyone took us seriously.

But they don't.

And it's our fault.

Copyright November 2008, Bruce Cohen

*Abba Eban - Past Israeli Prime Minister

** Wayne wearing out several pairs of shoes
campaigning for us, quite successfully; a one-man
army, getting more media than every other LP
VP Candidate in history COMBINED is the one
bright light in this otherwise miserable failure
by the Barr team.

Mister Root is clearly the future of the LP at the
national level.

Good looking, friendly, likeable, ORGANIZED,
articulate.. .

Libertarian Sarah Palin to Debate Wayne Root?

2008-08-29T11:09:00.000-07:00

Libertarian Sarah Palin to Debate Wayne Root?

One can only hope.

It certainly would be far more interesting than
seeing her debate Biden, the Dela-where Socialist.

Clearly, this is a good sign for America and the
Libertarian Party. That folks in secret smoke
filled rooms wanted and needed our votes enough
to choose her means a lot.

Both Libertarians, and the larger silent majority of
libertarian thinking and leaning Americans, can't help but
be pleased McCain would choose this very pro freedom woman
as his VP running mate.

Sarah Palin has been touted as a good thing for America
and Alaska for a long time by Libertarian bloggers, not
to mention open minded members of the mainstream media.

I agree.

Sarah is the kind of 'small l' Libertarian I could get
very excited about.

I won't be voting for Sarah this season. Though if she
were heads up against Wayne Root for President the,
the choice would be tougher.

I just can't see voting for Sarah, when it would mean
being stuck with John McCain as President.

McCain just isn't very good on the issues important
to America and Americans today.

Besides, why waste my vote on one Libertarian when
I can get two for the price of one?

More importantly, I want a President who's good
on the Constitution, taxes, spending and equal rights
for all. Bob Barr, for example.

It was a very smart political move to choose Sarah
as a running mate.

This choice underscores how badly American needs
Libertarians. And not just Libertarian voters, but
a Libertarian in the White House.

Copyright Bruce Cohen, August 2008

www.GetBruce.com

www.GetBruce.BlogSpot.com

Keeping the Pressure Up on Iran.

2008-05-12T00:21:00.000-07:00

This picture is considered hilarious by the average
Iranian, showing the luxury the rulers live in.

Keeping the Pressure Up on Iran.
An inside glimpse at why we should not quit.

Bruce Cohen

The cracks are starting to show in the Iranian Regime these days.

People are freely telling jokes about the corruption and ineptitude
the Mullahs and Ahmedinijad display for all to see.

Iranians email each other pictures poking fun at the luxury the
elites live in, while Ahmedinijad preaches to the rest of the country
about how and why the US is to blame for things are getting worse.

Yes, Iranians are very, very proud at the beauty of their country.
They glow when speaking of their modern skyline and capital.
Iranians speak of how well the expat community is doing with
pride to any outsider.

But, get very far off the main drag, you'll see the poverty
and squalor creeping in.

Prices are skyrocketing on everything from food to fuel.

There is a severe electricity shortage, not to mention gasoline.

And, not so strangely, the average Iranian wants the US
to stay in Iraq, at least until Iraq is stable, and the current
Iranian regime is replaced with a democracy.

The average Iranian, not to mention the educated middle
class, all realize how Jimmy Carter set the stage for their
current predicament, the lack of freedom and prosperity.

The religious police roam the streets, bullies, looking for
anything to cause trouble, anyone to push around.

The government is so corrupt, it makes Russia seem nearly
as honest as the United States.

I just 'spoke'* with one of my sources deep inside the Iranian
government. He told me they are very concerned with the
shortage of electricity. When I asked him what the plan
was to address this issue, he said laughingly, and I quote:
“economize”.

* Google Messenger

Now, this guy gets it. He sees things as they are, not as he
wishes they would be, or how he's told they are.

He went on to parody the government's attitude towards
things by making this statement, and I again quote verbatim:
“ahmadinezhad should pay money to make turbulence in
other countires likw Iraq , Lebenon ,....” (sic)

Then he laughed again.

I concurred that their current policy doesn't make sense.

He responded to me this way, “if Iran delete from middle
east , i think this place will get silent”.

This is quite telling.

Iran is on the brink. And we don't even need to nudge
them, we just have to not back down, and there will
be an internal revolution.

The conversation closed after I agreed with his statement,
with his closing comment: “iran is as same as a naugthy
guy in a class , who doesnt let anybody concentarate on
lesson!!!!!!!!!”. Again, verbatim.

Practically speaking, Iran is politically analogous to
Jimmy Carter. The ruling junta has evil in their hearts.

While the Chinese and Russians are bad, they are more
along the lines of the Clintons. Their lust for power and
gratification take up enough of their time to where it's
hard for them to cause real trouble.

If Iran reforms, the situation in Israel stabilizes, there
will be peace and stability in Iraq. At the same time, the
price of oil and food internationally will drop dramatically.

While I do want our troops to come home, now is not the
right time.

Our exit strategy in Iraq must account for its effect on
Iran, and frankly, increasing the pressure on the current
regime will also have a side effect almost everyone will like.

Done properly, we can clean up in Iraq and get out much
faster, more safely and not leave things a mess, like we
did in Vietnam.

Code Pink be damned, more people will die if we leave now.
Ask a US Marine, and Dollars to donut holes, he'll say the
same thing, and he'll say it will be US troops dying when
they have to go back.

Root, Barr, Gravel - 1, 2, 3 at Great Midwestern LP Debate

2008-04-05T19:16:00.000-07:00

Wayne Root on Top Again!

The predictions of many, of Root fading away to the pressure
of Barr, Gravel and Ruwart seem to be quite overstated.

While it's no secret I have been a fan and supporter of Mr.
Root from the beginning, this is not an opinion, it's the
results from the Midwestern Libertarian Conference.

In a few rushed phone calls with Convention attendees,
I got the news that many of us were dying to hear.

Who won the debate with so many big name newcomers?

Yes, it was a close photo finish, with Barr coming in a close
second and Gravel coming third, but Wayne Root won.

Gravel finishing in the money was a big surprise for me.
Mary Ruwart finishing out of the money was a bigger one.

Bad News for the Extremists in the LP

Those Libertarians who have a narrow view of what it
means to be a libertarian keep having both their
predictions and hopes dashed to the ground.

Their desires for an extreme and non-inclusive
platform seem to be drifting further and further
from their reach. The national LP has polled their
membership several times now, and in virtually
every case, the mainstream Libertarian view has
outpolled the excusivists by a landslide.

[Visit HERE to see some of those polling results.]

And now, with regard to the Presidential
Candidate selection process, every indication
says the mainstream, wide-appeal candidates
have the most credibility among the many
Convention attendees.

Libertarians are tired of being ignored.

Libertarians are tired of being irrelevant.

We have Cato and Reason and plenty of other
libertarian groups that are excellent for policy
wonking and 'education'.

But, a political party, and that's what the LP is,
should influence the electoral process in every
way it possibly can.

Choosing a Candidate that will appeal to Joe and
Jane Voter is the best possible way to do this.

No more boring speakers or angry fanatics need apply.

This is especially important when it comes to selecting
our flagship Candidate, the Presidential nominee.

And the rank and file Libertarian realizes this, now
much more than ever.

Libertarians want someone with real world experience
as a business, military or political leader.

Libertarians want someone who has the magic
combination of good looks, gravitas and charisma,
while still being very likeable.

And, Libertarians want an accomplished and exciting
public speaker.

This is why many of the Candidates some people
were so excited about have fallen off the back of the
pack and have become non-contenders.

They miss at least some of the requirements on
the list I just mentioned.

In my very biased opinion, Wayne Root has the most
complete resume when you look at it from this perspective.

Steve Kubby, clearly does well in this regard, and very well
may surprise us all at the LP national Convention next month.

Certainly the news is the best for Root and Gravel.
Both Wayne and Mike weren't expected to do well against
Barr and Ruwart.

And for Bob and Mary, the news is clearly not good, especially
for Ms. Ruwart.

Expectations were for Barr to sweep things once he formally
declared his Presidential Candidacy.

Mister Barr was notably predicted to 'hurt' Wayne Root, and
'take away votes' from him.

This didn't happen.

In fact, the Root first, Barr second finish, clearly shows people
are looking to after the nomination as to how the Candidate
will perform with American voters.

Finally, the Third Party Watch Polling shows again there
are only a few front runners, no matter how you slice it.

Wayne Root is near or in the lead in every single poll,
election, straw poll, Convention preference election and
State Primary.

There can only be a few people in double digits, and the
rest will be rapidly eliminated by the delegates in Denver.

Some Libertarians are disappointed, even furious.

But, for those of you who think like I do, that a big
picture, mainstream Candidate will be what makes,
or breaks, this election season for the LP, don't get
even the smallest bit complacent.

You must attend the Convention
in Denver next month.

Those who actually show up have the
future of the LP in their hands.

Just because we are doing so extrememly
well right now, doesn't mean we have a
lock on things.

Saturday and Sunday, be there, or don't
complain if we have some fruitcake for
a Presidential Candidate and a bunch of
nutcases on the national Board of Directors.

Ron Paul Votes Against H Res 951, Condemns Israel

2008-03-09T12:49:00.000-07:00

Recently, Congressman Ron Paul voted against
Congressional Bill H Res. 951

H Res 951 is a resolution:
"Condemning the Ongoing Palestinian
Rocket Attacks on Israeli Civilians"

Doctor Paul stated: "I believe it is appalling that
Israel fires missiles into Palestinian areas where
children and other non-combatants are killed
and injured."

Doctor Paul is entitled to be wrong.
Especially when he's wrong for the right reasons.

Doctor Paul is against foreign aid, on principle.
Doctor Paul also is against war, on principle.

He feels that if Israel hadn't been held back by
America, they would have solved this problem
long ago, and he's right about that.

I agree with him on all three of the above points.

Where he is wrong, and he's very wrong on this,
is to find some kind of moral equivalence between
the rocket attacks from Hamas and Company,
and the defensive actions of Israel.

" thousands of Palestinians living in Gaza
celebrated the slayings of the Israelis by
holding rallies in the streets, handing out
sweets to children and by attending prayer
and thanksgiving services.

"The Hamas terrorist organization issued
a statement saying that they added their
blessing to the operation, and that it would
not be their last." - Arutz 7 News

It's hard to believe that someone as intelligent
as Doctor Paul could be sucked into such
dishonest rhetoric. One can only believe he
is listening to the 'Blame America and Israel
First' lobbyists and pundits.

For many people, statements like this are
deal killers when considering Presidential
candidates.

Israel is arguably the single most careful
military in the world when it comes to the
treatment of civilians in war zones.

To ignore this is dishonest.
To not know this is foolishness and a
complete lack of understanding.

Is Doctor Paul ignoring the facts, or does
he actually not know them?

Either way, it's not a good position for
him to take.

So, let me say that I agree with Ron
Paul that we need to carefully abide by
the Constitution. That we ought to avoid
war whenever possible. That we ought
not to dole out Foreign Aid like candy.

That we ought to stop holding Israel
back from smashing their enemies
cleanly and decisively is another point
where Doctor Paul is right on the money.

But, we are dealing with good guys and
bad guys in this conflict. We are dealing
with one group who are our loyal friends,
and another who are our sworn enemies.

Passing a Congressional resolution of
support for our friends, the good guys,
is just not something I feel good about
Ron Paul standing up against.

I will continue to support Doctor Paul
when he's right.

This is not one of those times.

Rudy Finally Beats Ron Paul - Then Quits!

2008-01-29T20:41:00.000-08:00

For those of us who find both Rudy Giuliani and Eric Rittboink
distasteful, tonight is a night to revel in their further elimination
from relevancy.

Rudy did so poorly in Florida today, he and his staff have
informed the media, Giuliani will formally leave the race
tomorrow and endorse McCain.

Yeah, strike a blow for freedom there, guys.

From bad to weird.

Rudy comes in a distant third, and he quits.

And then there were four.

Before Texas Earache starts spinning wildly about this, let's
not forget that Ron Paul's Campaign decided there were not
enough delegates in Florida to spend a lot of time and money
there.

Sure, Ron Paul came in last at 3%, but so have some of the
others previously, but they didn't give up, and neither will he!

No money, no honey.

Let's also not forget that Ron has money, and more is steadily
coming in. My guess is that Mister Huckabee will be out fairly
soon, no matter how much he wants to play kingmaker in a
brokered Convention with his delegates.

He's broke.

Things will get to be very interesting when it's a three way
race between Ron Paul, Romney and McCain.

If Ron survives Stupor Tuesday, we have a real campaign
on our hands.

Rudy checked out two days before the Primary

My people in the Guiliani campaign saw the writing on the
wall days ago, and say a deal was struck with the McCain
camp before the first vote was cast. All the Giuliani folks
have already gone looking for jobs with McCain or Romney.

The LP just got more relevant

Looking further forward, if Ron Paul does not win the GOP
nod, and doesn't stay in as an Independent or Libertarian,
the LP Candidates suddenly take on a lot more significance
in the overall outcome of things.

Wayne Root is very confident he can win, George Phillies
team is busy mailing and calling people, and Steve Kubby
is building his team and gathering endorsements.

Paul Fundraising Fluke Free

2008-01-21T13:43:00.000-08:00

As of 1:20 PM on MLKs
Birthday/Holiday, the
ticker on Doctor Paul's
Campaign website has spun
rather quickly past two and
a half million dollars.

What's more amazing is that it's still totally a grass
roots, volunteer effort, with apparently nothing to
do with the campaign.

Libertarian America has gone absolutely nutsy
kookoo over the man, and I mean that in the very
best possible way.

Yes, there are a few controversies swirling around
the campaign. No, they all haven't been addressed
completely, but America still loves Ron Paul.

This money makes a big difference and the Paulites
know it very well.

Doctor Paul has some serious staying power with
all this cash pouring in, and could very well make
it all the way to the GOP Convention.

While the campaign, mistakenly I feel, is sticking
to campaigning exclusively, they can afford to do
so if the money keeps pouring in like this.

There is more good news on top of the mountains
of cash pouring in on their own. The militant
Libertarians have, for the first time in their lives,
come down off their extremist, radical perches
and started to support someone for their big
picture views.

Has the Libertarian Party grown up? I have my
doubts about that. However, the greater
Libertarian movement seems to be tired of
shooting themselves in the foot and supporting
an imaginary Candidate that supports their
utopian fantasies.

I too hope Ron Paul does well.
Very well.

And I too differ with the good Congressman on
several points.

But my enthusiasm for the vast majority of
points that I do agree with him on far
outweigh any policy disagreements.

And Doctor Paul is certainly getting our money's
worth for us. He's on the news and in the debates.

The other Candidates are stealing his lines, not
to mention his policy ideas and solutions.

And the enthusiasm is infectious.

Leading Libertarian Candidates Wayne Root
and Steve Kubby both speak highly of Doctor
Paul and wish him well.

The tall and handsome Art Olivier was recently
photographed with Ron, and leading Libertarian
activist Martha DeForest donated cashola to the
Ron Paul Blimp today.

The question of whether Doctor Paul will break
any more fundraising records today is interesting.

But more interesting is the phenomenon of Ron
Paul fans and the whole Libertarian world being
glued to their computer screens the numbers roll
up as they keep giving.

As Ron Paul for President continues to run
circles around the other candidates who were
expected to eliminate him, no one can say
anymore where this will end up.

Face Time With the Presidential Candidates - A libertarian curmudgeon tries to figure out where the major presidential candidates stand on the issues

2007-12-22T20:33:00.001-08:00

Face Time With the Presidential Candidates -
A libertarian curmudgeon tries to figure out where
the major presidential candidates stand on the issues
by Steven Greenhut

Candidates from both parties have been braying the same old
line we hear during every presidential election: This is the most
important election of a generation, or perhaps even a century.
So much is at stake that you, the harried voter, need to hang on
every word every candidate utters during the televised debates.

Do you want the candidate who is "standing up for regular
families," or the one "who speaks the truth and who will restore
America's moral leadership," or the one who understands that
our nation "embodies the belief that tomorrow can be better
than today"? Such big issues and tough choices!

Certainly, whoever becomes president gains an enormous
amount of power for good or for ill. Someone (thankfully) has
to replace President George W. Bush, who has specialized in
the "for ill" category. Last week, for instance, U.S. intelligence
agencies released a report rebuking the administration's
rationale for increased belligerence toward Iran.

The report showed that Iran had abandoned its nuclear
weapons program in 2003, yet the president declared that
the new information would in no way change U.S. policy.
Hey, why let new facts get in the way of a policy?

No wonder so many Americans are ready for a new
administration. But the new boss can be just as bad, or
even worse, than the old boss, so proceed with fear and
trepidation.

Yes, this is an important election. But even when the
candidates do talk about things that are real issues (the
Iraq war, abortion, health care, Social Security), they
dish out pabulum designed not to offend any particular
interest group.

The race isn't just about public policy, but about the
deepest issues of "faith." Mitt Romney is trying to
defuse concerns about his Mormon religion. Mike
Huckabee has told Iowa voters that he is the
"Christian" candidate. It's hard enough figuring
out what these candidates believe about taxes and
the Constitution, let alone about their theological
thinking.

American voters have to be a hardy bunch to sort
through the information and pick the right candidate.
The weak field of candidates, by the way, should be
reassuring to those who cling to that old adage that
"anyone can grow up to be president in America."

Nevertheless, someone eventually will win the race.
Here are some quick thoughts about the 17
Democratic and Republican candidates vying for
their respective parties' nominations. Consider it
help in picking your poison.

Bring on the Nanny State
Should the federal government vastly expand its
reach into our private lives? If you believe that,
then no candidate would express your views better
than Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y. "We need a new
beginning on health care," she said. "We need to
stand up to the drug companies and the insurance
companies and provide health care for every single
man, woman and child, at a price that people
can afford, and we're going to give them the help
to do that."

Reagan without the principles
If you like the Reagan look (with a lot more hair gel)
and the Reagan-like conservative platitudes, but
aren't concerned that the candidate probably doesn't
believe much of his own rhetoric given his incessant
flip-flopping, then former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt
Romney is your clear choice.

Pat Robertson meets Hillary Clinton
For those who like the Nanny State, but prefer that
it be served up in the cadence of a preacher, then
I'd suggest Mike Huckabee, a former Arkansas
governor and a Baptist minister. Writes National
Review's Jonah Goldberg: "Huckabee is a populist
on economics, a fad-follower on the environment
and an all-around do-gooder who believes that
the biblical obligation to do 'good works' extends
to using government – and your tax dollars – to
bring us closer to the Kingdom of Heaven on Earth."

Give class warfare a chance
Do you think your biggest problems are the result
of Evil Corporations and think that America is a land
dominated by irreconcilable differences between the
haves and the have-nots? You ought to start walking
precincts for former Sen. John Edwards, D-N.C. "In
today's Two Americas," he said, "it is no coincidence
that most families are working harder for stagnating
wages when there are nearly 60 lobbyists for every
member of Congress." Edwards has a solution to that
non sequitur – more government.

Authoritarianism with a not-so-friendly face
If you want the trains to run on time, and aren't too
worried about minor issues such as civil liberties, then
Rudy Giuliani should be a top choice. The Republican
former New York mayor once summarized his views
this way: "Freedom i s about authority. Freedom is
about the willingness of every single human being to
cede to lawful authority a great deal of discretion
about what you do."

'Wilsonianism' with a friendly face
Those who like grand big-government crusades will
love Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill. Obama said recently
at a South Carolina church that "we can create a
kingdom right here on Earth," thus reflecting his
belief in Great Society-type programs. But he's not
hesitant to use U.S. military might, either. In 2004,
he told the Chicago Tribune that he would be willing
to attack vIran if it obtains n uclear capabilities. And
he promises to use U.S. might to fix problems in Africa.

Follow the Constitution
Those who truly believe in limited government and
noninterventionism will have only one choice, U.S.
Rep. Ron Paul, R-Texas. As he rises in the polls
(7 percent) and raises millions of dollars, the long
knives have come out for him from "mainstream"
Republicans trying to portray him as a kook. But as
the self-effacing Paul recently said to Salon magazine,
"The message is so powerful, in spite of my shortcomings."

Less is more
The best choice for those who believe that a president
should have limited ambitions is former Sen. Fred
Thompson, R-Tenn. Michael Crowley wrote in the
New Republic: "If Fred Thompson is as lazy as reputed…
he'd have stuck a Post-it note to his wall back in 2002,
reading 'Saddam?' and then never quite gotten around to
invading. Which, in retrospect, may not have been such
a bad thing."

Follow the shiny object
U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich, D-Ohio, is the right choice if
you are yearning for old-fashioned socialism with a
conspiracy-theory twist. Kucinich's Web site includes a
section on "saving capitalism." As "Share Guide: The
Holistic Health Magazine" explains, Kucinich "is a
dynamic, visionary leader who combines a powerful
activism with a spiritual sense of the essential
interconnectedness of all living things."

Straight-talking warmonger
If you like the idea of cutting through all the
Washington BS, but don't mind a candidate who
in many ways epitomizes that same BS, then you
might want to hop on Arizona Republican Sen.
John McCain's straight-talk express.

McCain, after all, is best known for his campaign
to erode the First Amendment by strictly limiting
political speech (and protecting incumbents) in
the name of campaign-finance reform, and for his
constant push for more war.

The real Bill Clinton Clone
Some voters still pine for Bill Clinton, yet are
getting the sinking feeling that his wife is a
different sort of politician. The choice for them
is New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, the former
Clinton appointee who embodies Clinton's focus
on small initiatives (i.e., a Green Jobs program)
combined with the embrace of a handful of
conservative policies (i.e., support for the
Second Amendment) designed to win over
centrist voters.

The Mexicans are coming!
Voters who are solely concerned about the
issue of illegal immigration should look no
further than U.S. Rep. Tom Tancredo, R-Colo.

The Chinese are coming, too!
Those who worry about the "invasion" of
Mexicans AND also stay up at night,
fantasizing about a trade war with China
should put U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter,
R-San Diego, at the top of the list.

Opting for an also-ran
If you want to support a candidate who offers no
new ideas, little money to seriously compete in
the primaries and no chance of winning, then
you have four clear choices: Sen. Joe Biden, D-Del.,
Sen. Chris Dodd, D-Conn., lecturer Mike Gravel
(a Democrat) and professional candidate-for-any-
office Alan Keyes (Republican).

And you think third-party candidates are ridiculous?

December 12, 2007
Steven Greenhut is a senior editorial writer and
columnist for the Orange County Register.
He is the author of the book, Abuse of Power.

Copyright © 2007 Orange County Register

Handicapping the GOP and LP PrezNom Races

2007-12-22T16:12:00.000-08:00

Neither the California or the Orange
County Libertarian Parties are doing
much in the way of outreach, events,
fundraising or recruitment. They
also don't seem to be doing much for
Candidates...

So, the only excitement left for me
to think and talk about is the two
Presidential Nominations up for
grabs from either of the two pro-
freedom political parties.

"Since the time of the Greeks, there
have only been two political Parties.
The Pro-freedom and the Anti-Freedom
Parties.

The Libertarian and Republican Parties
are two branches of the Pro-Freedom
Party"
Tom McClintock

The Envelope Please.

My Personal Favorites for Republican Nomination:

1. Ron Paul 2. Mitt Romney

Ron Paul is far better than any other GOP Candidate.

Handicapping the race is a different matter.

My predictions are that Mitt Romney gets the Republican nod.

Huckabee Second

Giuliani Third

*Ron Paul Fourth with 5-10% of the result.

All others less than 5%

Any of the top three could win, and Ron Paul stands to hold enough votes that he could play kingmaker and choose the winner if one could get his endorsement.

For the Libertarian Nomination:
My Personal Favorites:

#1 Wayne Root (L)
#2 Ron Paul (R)
#3 Steve Kubby (L)

On the other hand...

If Congressman Ron Paul decides to run
as a Libertarian, he can just walk into the room, and the Convention will be over.

How NOT to Win Votes for Ron Paul

2007-12-19T05:08:00.000-08:00

I hate to give PR to someone I disagree with as
much, and as often, as Steven Kinsella. However,
his recent article at Lew Rockwell has me more
than a bit steamed.
Here's the link:
http://www.lewrockwell.com/blog/lewrw/archives/017855.html

"I know you hate Ron Paul." is the theme
of his article, and it degenerates from there.

Ron Paul with a Pro-Life Baby

Kinsella's screed is quite rude and insulting.
Worse yet, I'm quite sure it will cost Ron Paul
votes, and not gain him a single one.

It's the very common Libertarian communication
style of preaching to the choir about what's 'right',
while turning off anyone not a insider.

This type of nastiness, and the fact that between one
third and one half of Libertarians are 'pro-defense', is
why the LP has shrunk so drastically in membership
since the war in Iraq.

That, and the shrill noise heard from the outside has
kept away new recruits.

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

Brian Holtz made quite a good case for the math on
this one, using the Badnarik campaign's very, very
low vote totals as one of his illustrating points.

I'm quite sure the Ron Paul campaign would never
put their foreign policy this way, as they are perfectly
aware that politics is a game of addition, not one of
subtraction.

Just a refresher for those of us in this for the long
haul: the war issue is what a Political Scientist
would call a 'losing issue'.

A losing issue is described as something that
divides your political group, and divides the voting
constituency from which votes are drawn.

This is a deep underlying failing of the LP and the
wider libertarian movement. They have alienated
and driven away their freinds, allies and potential
friends and allies with this kind of behavior.

This is especially dissapointing, considering we,
as a group, have so very many 'winning issues'.

A winning issue is one that unifies your political
group, and unifies voters in your elecoral area.
Preferably, this winning issue is one that your
opponents disagree with, as well.

Considering the party is unified on a laundry
list of issues that are also widely supported
by America, it's clearly immature and stupid
for us to have a corporate culture to hang on
to the 'anti-war' all the time banner.

I am not trying to talk people like Kinsella out
of their position on this matter. What I am
pointing out here is that using this issue itself
as a 'sales feature' is a failure and should be
left aside.

That is if you actually want to win some
elections and change American politics.

As a side note, Mister Kinsella's anti-semitism
and Jew-baiting make hims a less than credible
spokesman for the Ron Paul Camp.

I personally support Congressman Paul's
electoral efforts, and would love to see a
Ron Paul Presidency.

I for one, can overlook that we don't
agree on several issues, but instead, I
prefer to focus on where we do agree,
not only on the great majority of things,
as on the big picture as well.

Giuliani Fails Libertarian Test - Libertarian is as Libertarian Does

2007-12-06T09:57:00.000-08:00

Certainly, Libertarians are going to disagree on some
issues, as well as strategies.

Some Libertarians, like me, would call Tom McClintock
and President Reagan Libertarians.

On the other hand, there are Libertarians who would,
and have, said otherwise. These same people just
can't accept incremental progress, nor vote for the
better of two candidates.

That they are willing to overlook where they disagree
with Ron Paul, is hopefully a sign of maturation
within the LP and the freedom movement.

As far as Rudy, I am happy he's working with
some very good libertarians, and has given every
indication that he'll include some excellent people
in his cabinet, should he be elected.

But, on the question of Rudy's libertarian credentials,
I can't go along, no way, no how.

Rudy is better than almost any Democrat, sure.
But that's not the question being raised.

I don't personally believe Rudy is committed to
less government. In fact, quite the opposite.
He seems committed to being 'in charge'.

When you listen to Mitt Romney, at least he
makes the case for less government and more
individual choice.

Libertarian is as Libertarian does.
Rudy is a gun banner, he's for more rules
on Business and Wall Street. And Rudy,
like the Clintons, believes strongly he
knows what's best for you and I.

When he was in office, he did get some
good results, and I'm interested in
learning from his methodology.

New York City certainly benefited overall
from his leadership, but there were many
mistakes and abuses of power along the
way, and this tells us how he would
behave as President.

While Huckabee in no way is committed
to freedom, in the way we Libertarians
envision it, at least he's consistent and
straightforward.

No matter how loudly Mister Rittberg
beats the Rudy drum, Ron Paul is far
more Libertarian than Giuliani.

And, among those in double digits,
only Mitt Romney has legislated in
anything that could be described as
a Libertarian fashion.

Just like with the Islamic terrorists
who would attack us, all we need do

is listen to the words of the
Candidates and watch their
behavior in office and their
personal lives.

Ron Paul has the highest level of
consistency, ethics and legislative
record as a Congressman. As well,
his personal life is unquestionably
likewise squeaky clean.

These things matter to me.
They matter to most Libertarians.
And, they matter to America.

That's why Ron Paul has a shot,
longshot though it may be.

For Libertarians, Ron Paul has to be
the number one Republican choice,
with Romney the only other even
worth considering.

(Tom Tancredo is good too, but off
the radar in polling and funds...)

The voters of America are quite
practical, and won't vote for someone
they don't trust, or that they don't
think can win.

As more and more information
about Rudy's past comes out, it's
looking like it will be hard for America

to trust him.

And so, we have Ron Paul as the

only major party choice worth

real consideration.

You Can't Win 'Em All, Paul!

2007-09-20T14:02:00.000-07:00

Background: Ron Paul was not invited to a recent
Republican Jewish Coalition Presidential Candidates
Forum. Some Jewish Ron Paul supporters are
very upset about this private organization's
decision to not include Congressperson Paul

____________________
www.getbruce.blogspot.com

In all fairness, Congressman Paul is polling somewhere
near zero, darn it all.

As much as I personally want Doctor Paul in any debate,
it's not unreasonable for an objective debate organizer
to draw the line somewhere.

If there were a scientific poll anywhere, anyplace,
any time that had Ron Paul at 10%, then they'd be
clearly wrong. Heck, I'll even go with 5%.

The County straw polls, which are fun, and make me
cheer when I see Ron do well in them, are hardly
indicative of much, if anything.

Frankly, Doctor Paul has run from the Libertarian
label, and made it clear he won't run for President
as a Party member if he loses the GOP nomination.

It's futile, embarrassing and marginalizing for us
to have temper tantrums when he doesn't get
included, and we don't get our way.

I wish he were included.
I do think Ron is relevant.
But, a fair person of a different mindset might
very honestly and honorably not agree.

The Republican Jewish Coalition has an agenda
our favorite Republican doesn't fit.

Many feel Doctor Paul is quite anti-Israel, anyway.
He uses the term 'Zionist' in a derogatory fashion,
and has done little, if anything, to endear himself
to the Jewish community.

[Note: My Libertarian loyalty only comes after
my American affiliation, even before being Jewish.]

Demanding Ron Paul be included is just silliness.
Why should the RJC put him in?
What's in it for them?

Instead of being babies, we ought to be frank with
ourselves. There is a lot to like about Ron Paul.
A lot.

However, his polling numbers and national
influence are not among them.

Further, his position on Jewish and Israeli
issues are likewise not among the things
I respect and support Ron Paul for.

Let us be grateful for the many times Ron
Paul has been included. Let us thank
Fox News, and the other networks who
have been more than fair in the amount
of coverage and air time he has recieved.

We certainly are not going to win them all.
Especially not this time.

www.GetBruce.com

Newt Warns of Patriot Act 2

2007-08-28T13:21:00.000-07:00

Please watch this short video clip:
Newt Gingrich on the International

War Against Terror:
http://snipurl.com/newtiwot

Newt Warns of Patriot Act 2
'No one worries about civil liberties the day after

a terrorist attack'.

Bruce Cohen
August 28, 2007

Newt's been ringing the alarm bell for a long time.

Call him a 'Neocon' or other insult, as you will.
But to me, he's not only a smart, pro-defense
Conservative, but he's quite the libertarian.

Unlike many Libertarians however, Newt doesn't
live in the fantasy world of 'all-or-nothing' or it's
semi-parallel world of inconsequentialism.

He's perfectly aware that progress must be made
in small steps. He's also very aware, as he points
out so brilliantly, that pretending something is so,
doesn't make it so.

In this video, he points out, and I'm paraphrasing
from memory here, 'Noone worries about civil
liberties they day after a terrorist attack'.

Yes, that's clearly true, on the face of it.
But, its literal truth is not really his point.

Newt's point is this: should we not prevent

these attacks that are certainly beeing plotted

against us as we speak, post-attack, we will lose

our civil liberties from the heavy-handed

government responses and actions.

Yes, Newt might be called a 'reverse
incrementalist', where he's advocating the
prevention of our mutual loss of Liberty.

Speaker Gingrich is well aware of the perils
our freedoms, both personal and economic,
face from a successful major terrorist
attack on a large American city.

Let's imagine together what will happen
when a major US city faces another 9-11
sized attack.

If you don't like the Patriot Act,, and there
is a lot not to like about it, well... I can
assure you, what would happen after our
enemies blow up Seattle or San Diego,
will make the Patriot Act look mild.

Don't like Patriot Act I?
Wait until we get Patriot Act II.

And, don't say Newt and I didn't tell you.

Snipped URL: http://snipurl.com/newtiwot
Original URL:
http://edition.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/08/08/gingrich/index.html#cnnSTCVideo

Copyright Bruce Cohen - August 2007
http://www.getbruce.com/

Fox News: MTV's Kurt Loder Rails Against Universal Health Care & Tax Hikes

2007-08-16T15:52:00.000-07:00

Bruce Cohen

Fox Headline:
MTV's Kurt Loder Rails Against
Universal Health Care & Tax Hikes

Kurt Loder was interviewed on 'Your World With Neal Cavuto' today.

The top rated News and Business show host was off, but his guest host sounded just as Libertarian as he.

Her guest, Kurt Loder also sounded very Libertarian, talking about the financial and supply pitfalls of Socialized Medicine, or as it's been labeled lately, 'Universal Health Care'.

Yes, Fox News is 'Fair and Balanced'.

The real balance comes not from having both the Republican and Democrat, Conservative and Liberal sides, but adding in the pro-Liberty choice into the discussion.

http://www.getbruce.com/

A Libertarian Angel gets her Wings: California LP Director Fired

2007-08-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

A Libertarian Angel gets her Wings: California LP Director Fired

by Bruce Cohen

Have you ever heard the saying, 'Libertarians eat their own'?

It refers to the nasty Rothbardian habit many Libertarians have of demonizing, attacking and then purging fellow Libertarians for not being perfect in one way or another.

Don't agree about Foreign Policy? Leave the room.

Don't agree about Immigration Policy? Go to the back of the line.

Don't agree on Reproductive Rights? We're not friends any more.

Why is this topical as of today? Well, the unthinkable has happened.

Angela Keaton, purist, hardcore, radical Libertarian just got fired as Executive Director by the leadership of the Libertarian Party of CA.

That's right.

Angela Keaton.

Host of 'The Liberated Space' Radio. Wife of Brian Doherty, famous Libertarian Author and Reason think tanker...

Hand selected, Miss Perfect, choice of the radical LP set was fired.

For what, you ask?

Did she break ranks and agree with Eric Dondero and want to go to war with Iran and Syria?

No.Did she go Pro-Life, and support Ron Paul in making Abortion illegal?

Nope.

Did she line up with Art Olivier and want tough border controls?

Nope.

They fired her because they couldn't balance their budget. A budget they voted for, they control, they can change at will...

I have a lot of problems with the hows and whys of her firing. Angela was fired in an inhumane and dishonest manner, and those who fired her ought to be ashamed.

How she was fired, why she was fired, who fired her...

But I'm not going to elaborate on that. For now.I am going to say that Angela is a fine, honorable person. She's honest and hard-working, and did not deserve this treatment.

But there you have it.

Libertarians eating their own, again. They don't have any other enemies these days, so they must fight among themselves.

Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall, Who's the Most Libertarian of Them All?

2007-08-16T15:02:00.001-07:00

Bruce Cohen

www.GetBruce.com

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Libertarians have long judged each other by the news sources they rely on, with choices ranging from Lew Rockwell, to the Orange County Register and the Wall Street Journal.

The same goes for Television news. Many hate Fox, many hate CNN and the rest of the Mainstream Media.

I'm going to throw my two cents worth at this question. In my mind, Fox News is clearly the 'most libertarian' of any broadcast source, TV or radio.

Fox has the most pro-freedom hosts and guests on, including many who are out-of-the-closet declared small l and capitol L Libertarians.

Now I know very well the purist and anarchists are going to rant and rave about Dennis Miller being imperfect, so I'm going to ignore them when they do. Big picture, which is what counts, we have a news organization that's very friendly to the concepts of small government and individual freedom. 'But wait!', my detractors will yell. 'Fox News is a Bush-Promoting, warmongering bunch of baby killers!' 'How can you cal lthem libertarian?'

I'm not going to deny Fox News leans Republican. However, I am going to say that in line with their 'fair and balanced' slogan, they've been very tough on the President, mostly for things Libertarians have problems with.

They have pounded him on overspending.

They have pounded him on the Prescription Drug boondoggle.

They have been very forthright about the failures of leadership in the Iraqi war and have never shied away from discussing problems and bad news from the war front.

But Fox News does have more guests on the air from Cato and Reason and Heritage, espousing Libertarian views than CNN, ABC, NBC and CBS combined.

And, they are very open minded about our approaches and solutions, whilst the rest of broadcast media, with very few exceptions are pro-government solution, socialists.

Short of having news anchors such as LP Officers Aaron Starr and Chuck Moulton, Fox News is about as good as one could really expect to get.

More points for Fox News: They've given a lot of coverage to Ron Paul.

Sean Hannity has stated on the air he would be a Libertarian, except our position on the 'War on Drugs'. On the other hand, he's been willing to concede thatparticular war is a failure and has been willing to discuss the possiblity that decriminalization or Legalization just might work.

You don't find that at CNN or anywhere else but Fox.

Other news organizations are universally pro-Dem, pro-socialism and pro socialized medicine. Fox is pro First and Second Amendment, unlike the rest of the MSM gang.

Fox is against quotas and 'affirmative action'. Fox is pro choice in education.

Fox is against socialized medicine. All these things big media are in the opposing camp as a matter of editorial policy.

Fox has libertarians as news anchors and contributors, such as Fox Senior VP Neal Cavuto, Fox Business News Head Alexis Glick, Larry Kudlow, Dennis Miller and Fox website Blogger Rodney Balko. The list continues.

Note - Bruce Cohen is the Immediate Past Chair of the Orange County, CA Libertarian Party.

2007-08-16T14:58:00.000-07:00