Can Libertarians function in the Republican Party?

Fox News | 11/26/02 | me

[Sparta]

I just heard on John Gibson's show a guest say that libertarians can influence policy in the Republican Party. He pointed to Ron Paul and Dick Armey as examples. Your comments please.

[jejones]

Libertarians in general have some good ideas, but their time and energy would be better spent lobbying within the Republican party, rather than offering themselves as an alternative.

OK...could you provide some evidence of that? Is there anything at all in the GOP's platform that is there because of libertarian influence, and how do you know? (I'm not trying to score a rhetorical point; I would love to hear that people like the RLC actually have some observable effect.)

[Cyber Liberty]

I'm for that. The libertarians appear to be for it, too, so let's do it.

[Phantom Lord]

Is there anything at all in the GOP's platform that is there because of libertarian influence, and how do you know?

And just what parts of the GOP Platform does the Republican Party strive to implement through their elected officals?

I find Party Platforms to be like Corporate Mission Statements. Window dressing, fluff, and feel good sentiments to wave around to make one look good. When it comes to legislating, platforms are thrown out the window.

[Hacksaw]

If you believe that the decision should be made at the local level, then you actually agree with the ACLU. (Don't worry, I won't tell anyone)

I think you know the ACLU wouldn't care if it was done at the city, county, or state level.

[Liberal Classic]

Glad that's settled! Unfortunately, I am off to work now. :)

[jwalsh07]

Many things are possible but you miss the main point. Freedom doesn't come from a overly intrusive central government in the guise of the Supreme Court demanding my town provide access to porn on the internet. That decision is left to the citizens of my town.

[ThinkDifferent]

I think you know the ACLU wouldn't care if it was done at the city, county, or state level

Possibly, but in this specific case they're right. On the other hand, if a community voluntarily decided to install filters and the ACLU tried to stop it, then I'd oppose them.

[Cyber Liberty]

Just in time, then. Be productive.

;^)

[dljordan]

Well, if your squishy, compassionate conservatives would actually stand up for something people would vote for them. I am a registered Republicritter and I voted Libertarian last time except for Marilyn Musgrave who I think is a constitutionalist. I guess my views are just too conservative for most Republicans who are the political equivalent of 1970's Democrats. You brave loyalists seem to think every one who doesn't agree with your point of view deserves the axe. Blind faith will be the destruction of this nation.

[jwalsh07]

As Michael Savage likes to say---its borders, language, and culture and to me there are way to many Republicans who think a little too much like the Rats on these three issues.

Libertarian philosophy demands open borders, unfettered access to those borders and the freedom of those who access this country to speak the language and choose the culture they please.

If I am wrong about that the LP needs to radically redesign their website.

[jwalsh07]

On the other hand, if a community voluntarily decided to install filters and the ACLU tried to stop it, then I'd oppose them.

I guess you missed my post.

That IS their policy.

Nah, you didn't miss it.

[ThinkDifferent]

As I already said, I disagree with that portion of their policy. But I do agree with their argument against filters being mandated by the federal government.

[Sparta]

If we took those three issues, Dubya would have to be considered a Libertarian. But, Mr. Savage is oversimplifying the issue.

[weikel]

Ive advocated that pro small government people take over the Republican party the press etc adopt the MO of the people in charge of the left which is very effective they infiltrate subvert and propagandize we need a counter operation.

[weikel]

For the federal government? Plz show me the part of the constitution where it gives the Federal government power to regulate porn( FDR interpratation of the commerce clause and the welfare clause not acceptable).

[seanc623]

That's starting to sound better every day.

Bump!!! A conservative/libertarian alliance will be unstoppable across the country.

I'm going to do my part by running in a GOP primary for office in 2004. I'm through complaining about the candidates and I'm going to do something about it! I plan to seek the support and/or endorsement of the LP, Reform, American Independent (Constitution Party affiliate here in CA) in my quest.

But make no mistake: if I'm unsuccessful I won't help elect a Communist (I mean Democrat). I will support the GOP candidate in the general even if that person is a RINO. They're still better than the Rats.

[StoneColdTaxHater]

I am a member of the LP, I feel that too often that party is content to be spoilers than actually win meaningful seats. I beleive that our ideals are more in line with Republicans and that soem of us can work within the party structure. As one early poster said, i am a Libertarian Republican.

[Sparta]

Libertarian philosophy demands open borders, unfettered access to those borders and the freedom of those who access this country to speak the language and choose the culture they please.

The Libertarian Party doesn't speak for all libertarians. This libertarian believes in closed borders until we can fix the mess with our visa and immigration policies, opposes bilingual education, and opposes having foreign cultures being forced upon him.

[weikel]

Paul is naive on foreign policy my favorite national pol is the retiring Dick Armey( and you also gotta admit thats a mans name).