Tuesday, November 27, 2018
Saturday, November 24, 2018
Former Prohibition Party Member Reforms American Free Soil Party
by Adam Seaman
Reverend Dr. Jimmy Clifton, formally of the Prohibition Party for 30+ years, has re-formed the Free Soil Party calling it the "American Free Soil Party". The party platform which is extensive, will focus on justice for immigrants and combating discrimination among other things.
From 1848 to 1854, the party existed as an anti-slavery political party that nominated 2 tickets for the presidential elections of 1848 and 1852. The nominees included former President Martin Van Buren and his running mate Charles Adams, son of former President John Q. Adams.
"It was a human rights party (against slavery) that believed in the equality of all and in the worth and dignity of all people. I thought a revival with a slightly different name would continue its historic tradition as we addressed the immigration issue, specifically, and other discrimination issues in general--gays, blacks, Muslims, etc. Thought the term "free soil" would also be as appropriate today (Hispanic and Latino immigrants) as it was originally (slaves)"
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| Rev. Dr. Jimmy Clifton, Founder |
American Free Soil Party Facebook Page
American Free Soil Party Website
Tuesday, November 20, 2018
South Dakota Libertarian Party Is Still on Ballot
Ballot Access News
South Dakota’s definition of “political party” is in section 12-1-3(12). It says, “‘Political party’, beginning with the 2014 general election and each general election thereafter, a party whose candidate for any statewide office received at least 2.5% of the total votes cast for that statewide office in either of the two previous general election cycles.”
The Libertarian Party did not poll as much as 2.5% of the vote for either of its statewide nominees in 2018. However, in 2016, it polled 5.63% for its slate of presidential elector candidates. Therefore, it should be considered on the ballot for 2020, because the law allows a party two elections after it passes the vote test, which it did in 2016.
UPDATE: an earlier version of the post said the Secretary of State hadn’t weighed in, but now the Secretary of State has e-mailed that she agrees and the Libertarian Party is on the 2020 ballot. Thanks to Lori Stacey for help with this.
South Dakota’s definition of “political party” is in section 12-1-3(12). It says, “‘Political party’, beginning with the 2014 general election and each general election thereafter, a party whose candidate for any statewide office received at least 2.5% of the total votes cast for that statewide office in either of the two previous general election cycles.”
The Libertarian Party did not poll as much as 2.5% of the vote for either of its statewide nominees in 2018. However, in 2016, it polled 5.63% for its slate of presidential elector candidates. Therefore, it should be considered on the ballot for 2020, because the law allows a party two elections after it passes the vote test, which it did in 2016.
UPDATE: an earlier version of the post said the Secretary of State hadn’t weighed in, but now the Secretary of State has e-mailed that she agrees and the Libertarian Party is on the 2020 ballot. Thanks to Lori Stacey for help with this.
Arizona Green Party Sets New Record for Gubernatorial Elections
Ballot Access News
The Arizona Green Party nominee for Governor, Angel Torres, polled 2.14%. This is the best the party has ever done for that office. The party was only on the ballot for Governor of Arizona once before, in 2010, when it got .93%.
No 2018 Green Party nominee for Governor of any other state received a higher percentage than Torres, except Jim Brewer in Hawaii, who got 2.59%.
Pennsylvania Finally Releases Registration Tally for Libertarian and Green Parties
Ballot Access News
The Pennsylvania elections office has posted the number of registered Libertarians and Greens as of the close of registration for the recent election. See the tally here. The new Libertarian total is 44,848; the new Green total is 11,534.
Earlier, the office had released this data for the Democrats and Republicans, but no other parties. The changes for the two minor parties are small, compared to the May 2018 tallies. In May, there were 44,399 Libertarians and 11,548 Greens.
Ohio Governor John Kasich Says He Still Might Run as an Independent
Ballot Access News
This Columbus Dispatch story about outgoing Ohio Governor John Kasich quotes him as saying that it is still possible he will be an independent candidate for president in 2020. Thanks to Political Wire for the link.
This Columbus Dispatch story about outgoing Ohio Governor John Kasich quotes him as saying that it is still possible he will be an independent candidate for president in 2020. Thanks to Political Wire for the link.
November 2018 Partisan Races Won by Minor Parties
Ballot Access News
At the November 6 election, Libertarian nominees won five partisan elections around the nation:
1. Henry County, Indiana, Liberty Township Board, Terry Coffman
2. Henry County, Indiana, Liberty Township Trustee, Jamie Jo Owens
3. Wayne County, Indiana, Clay Township Board, Cheryl Heacox
4. Montgomery County, Indiana, Franklin Township Board, Dean Hartley
5. Montgomery County, Kentucky, Justice of the Peace, 2nd district, Shannon Denniston
2. Henry County, Indiana, Liberty Township Trustee, Jamie Jo Owens
3. Wayne County, Indiana, Clay Township Board, Cheryl Heacox
4. Montgomery County, Indiana, Franklin Township Board, Dean Hartley
5. Montgomery County, Kentucky, Justice of the Peace, 2nd district, Shannon Denniston
The Green Party won one partisan race. John Roush was elected one of the two Registrars of Voters for Union, Connecticut
The Constitution Party won one partisan race. Jerry R. Jones was elected Greene County Commissioner in North Carolina.
As already noted, the Progressive Party elected nine state legislators in Vermont.
Green and Constitution Parties, and COFOE, Join Utah Amicus Along with Other Diverse Groups
Ballot Access News
An amicus curiae brief, asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear Utah Republican Party v Cox, has been filed by some minor parties, along with other groups, including the Coalition for Free & Open Elections (COFOE). The brief is also joined by the Utah Native American caucus (which contains eleven legislators from both major parties), and the Idaho Republican Party.
The minor parties who signed the brief are the Green Party, the Constitution Party, and the American Independent Party. Also these state Libertarian Parties joined: California, Georgia, Louisiana, Michigan, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. Here is the brief.
Another amicus has been filed by Judicial Watch. See it here.
Yet another amicus has been filed by Eagle Forum Legal Defense Fund. See it here.
The next event in this case will be when the U.S. Supreme Court sets a conference date. Also, the Court may then ask the state to respond.
Wyoming Libertarian Party Almost Elected a State Legislator
Ballot Access News
On November 15, the Wyoming Secretary of State released the official election returns. See them here. Libertarian State House nominee Bethany Baldes, in the 55th district, polled 49.2% of the vote in a two-person race. The Republican incumbent, David Miller, won with 50.8%.
Wyoming has not elected any third party nominee to the legislature since 1900, when a Populist won a State Senate seat.
Wyoming did elect an independent to the State House, in the 22nd district. This is the first time an independent had been elected to the Wyoming state house since 1976. Here is a story about Jim Roscoe, who is a former Democrat.
Vermont Progressive Party Elected Nine State Legislators
Ballot Access News
Last week, nine candidates who were members of the Progressive Party of Vermont, and whose ballot label showed they were Progressive Party members, were elected. This is the same number the party elected in 2016.
The two winners in the State Senate are incumbents Christopher Pearson and Anthony Pollina.
The house winners are: Brian Cina, Selene Colburn, Diana Gonzalez, Robin Chesnut-Tangerman, Mollie S. Burke, Zacariah Ralph, and Sandy Haas.
Vermont permits fusion. When a party is the nominee of two parties, the candidate’s party of membership is listed first, followed by the name of any other party that also nominated that candidate. Some, but not all, of the elected Progressives also had the nomination of the Democratic Party.
Thirteen Independent Candidates were Elected to State Legislatures Last Week
Ballot Access News
On November 6, thirteen independent candidates were elected to state legislatures. They are:
Alaska: Daniel Ortiz
Maine: Walter Riseman, Jeff Evangelos, William Pluecker, Norman Higgins, Kent Ackley
Massachusetts: Susannah Whipps
Vermont: Terry Norris, Barbara Murphy, Benjamin Jickling, Laura Sibilia, and Kelly Pajala
Wyoming: Jim Roscoe
Maine: Walter Riseman, Jeff Evangelos, William Pluecker, Norman Higgins, Kent Ackley
Massachusetts: Susannah Whipps
Vermont: Terry Norris, Barbara Murphy, Benjamin Jickling, Laura Sibilia, and Kelly Pajala
Wyoming: Jim Roscoe
All of these were elected to the lower house, not the State Senate.
Florida Politics Considers Impact of Reform Party Gubernatorial Nominee Darcy Richardson on Outcome
Ballot Access News
Florida Politics has this interesting article about the Reform Party nominee for Governor of Florida, Darcy Richardson. One of the points mentioned in the story is that most Florida counties abbreviate the names of political parties, instead of including the whole party name. The Reform Party in most counties was “Ref.”, which might look like “Rep.” to voters that are either careless or have poor eyesight. Thanks to Peter Gemma for the link.
The Florida U.S. Senate race had no candidates on the ballot other than the Republican and Democratic nominees. But the Florida Governor’s race had the Reform Party nominee and three independent candidates.
Ohio Secretary of State Won’t Keep Libertarian Party On Ballot
Ballot Access News
According to this story, the Ohio Secretary of State has informally said that the Ohio Libertarian Party is no longer qualified. The story quotes a spokesperson for the Secretary of State’s office, who admits the party does have one sentence of the law on its side. But he says other parts of the law are in conflict. The office has not made a formal declaration yet. Thanks to Jim Riley for the link.
According to this story, the Ohio Secretary of State has informally said that the Ohio Libertarian Party is no longer qualified. The story quotes a spokesperson for the Secretary of State’s office, who admits the party does have one sentence of the law on its side. But he says other parts of the law are in conflict. The office has not made a formal declaration yet. Thanks to Jim Riley for the link.
Alaska Libertarian Party is Probably Close to Re-Qualifying for the Ballot
Ballot Access News
Parties in Alaska are qualified in advance of a presidential election if they either polled 3% for Governor, or if they have registration equal to 3% of the total vote cast for Governor. In 2014 the Alaska Libertarian Party received over 3% of the vote for Governor, so its registration was immaterial as to qualified status in 2016.
In 2018, the party polled 1.85% for Governor, below 3%. Therefore, it needs registration of 3% of the gubernatorial vote to be qualified for 2020. As of the November 3, 2018 registration tally, it has 7,442, a slight increase from the previous months’ tally. Alaska won’t know the final vote cast for Governor until November 16. The election night total was 239,946, but that doesn’t include the absentee votes. Chances are the party will only need a few hundred more registrations in order to be qualified.
Sunday, November 18, 2018
Constitution Party Resolution Against Invasion
by the Constitution Party National Committee
17 November 2018 – Dallas, Texas
Whereas the invasion across our borders has been uncontrolled for decades; and,
Whereas under Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution for the United States, Congress has the power “To provide for calling forth the Militia to execute the Laws of the Union, suppress Insurrections and repel Invasions.”
Therefore, the Constitution Party National Committee reaffirms its position on the issue of border control, and calls for the U. S. government to act immediately to repel the invasion under existing immigration laws and Article IV, Section 4 of the Constitution for the United States:
“The United States shall guarantee to every State in this Union a Republican Form of Government, and shall protect each of them against Invasion; and on Application of the Legislature, or of the Executive (when the Legislature cannot be convened) against domestic Violence.”
Read resolution in full here.
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by the Constitution Party National Committee – 17 November 2018 – Dallas, Texas Whereas the invasion across our borders has been uncontrolled for decades; and, Whereas under Article I…
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Saturday, November 17, 2018
Sunday, November 11, 2018
American Solidarity Party of Ohio and Prohibition Party of Ohio enter into a Coalition
by Adam Seaman
On October 18, 2018 the State Committee of the American Solidarity Party of Ohio (ASP-OH) unanimously voted to enter into a coalition with the Prohibition Party of Ohio, with the minutes of this meeting being submitted by ASP-OH Secretary Dr. Michael Liccione. Mr. Rick Knox, the chairman of the Prohibition Party, reciprocally approved this coalition on October 29, 2018. The state committee of this Christian Democratic party includes Dr. John Das (Chairman), Dr. Michael Liccione (Secretary), Br. Brennan Baker (Treasurer), Mr. Michael Abdelshahid (At-large Officer), and Mr. Conrad Miller (At-large Officer). The American Solidarity Party of Ohio views this coalition as an opportunity for electoral fusion, welcoming the fact that the Prohibition Party is willing to endorse and support its candidates. Mr. Knox, Chairman of the Prohibition Party, said that “both parties agree on a multitude of issues and should work together for the common good.” The chairman of the American Solidarity Party of Ohio, Dr. Das, stated that both organizations feel similarly on social issues such as the importance of the family unit, as well as promote environmentalism and renewable energy sources. Having taken a Lenten pledge of the Pioneer Total Abstinence Association for that liturgical season in 2017 and being a member of the Independent Order of Rechabites, he personally values the idea of temperance and believes that most individuals in the American Solidarity Party, citing a consistent life ethic, would probably support the addition of labels on alcoholic beverages that warn of their carcinogenic properties, as well as their potential to cause fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), though they would not outright support prohibition, which is a unique characteristic of the Prohibition Party. Perhaps it is time that other third parties see the example of the American Solidarity Party of Ohio and the Prohibition Party of Ohio and find common ground in order to provide a united front to uphold the dignity of the human person, while also advocating for social justice in the world.
Thursday, November 8, 2018
Green Party Appears to Become Qualified Party Inside Cook County, Illinois
Ballot Access News
The Green Party nominee for Cook County (Illinois) Water Commissioner, unexpired term, Rachel Wales, received 19.0% in a two-candidate race against a Democrat. This appears to make the Green Party ballot-qualified inside Cook County, for partisan county office. Here is a link to the Cook County election returns from the Chicago Tribune.
The Green Party nominee for Cook County (Illinois) Water Commissioner, unexpired term, Rachel Wales, received 19.0% in a two-candidate race against a Democrat. This appears to make the Green Party ballot-qualified inside Cook County, for partisan county office. Here is a link to the Cook County election returns from the Chicago Tribune.
Both Independent U.S. Senators Re-Elected
Ballot Access News
Both independent members of the U.S. Senate have been re-elected. Bernie Sanders in Vermont got 67.4%; Angus King in Maine got 54.2%.
Both independent members of the U.S. Senate have been re-elected. Bernie Sanders in Vermont got 67.4%; Angus King in Maine got 54.2%.
New York Gains Two New Qualified Parties and Loses Two
Ballot Access News
New York requires a party to poll 50,000 votes for Governor in order to be a qualified party. The Libertarian Party and the Serve America Party both met this goal, so they both become qualified parties for the first time in New York. The Reform Party and the Women’s Equality Party both polled substantially fewer than 50,000 votes for Governor, so they will lose their qualified status. See the unofficial returns here.
New York requires a party to poll 50,000 votes for Governor in order to be a qualified party. The Libertarian Party and the Serve America Party both met this goal, so they both become qualified parties for the first time in New York. The Reform Party and the Women’s Equality Party both polled substantially fewer than 50,000 votes for Governor, so they will lose their qualified status. See the unofficial returns here.
North Dakota Secretary of State Re-Elected Even Though he was Running as an Independent Candidate
Ballot Access News
Al Jaeger has won re-election as North Dakota’s Secretary of State, even though this year he was running as an independent candidate. See the unofficial returns here.
Al Jaeger has won re-election as North Dakota’s Secretary of State, even though this year he was running as an independent candidate. See the unofficial returns here.
Constitution Party Wins a Partisan County Race in North Carolina
Ballot Access News
The Constitution Party nominee for Greene County (North Carolina) Commissioner has won the election. Jerry R. Jones polled 3,232 votes in unofficial tallies, defeating his only opponent, Democrat Natasha Sutton, who received 2,908. The final figures will be somewhat higher.
This is the first time a party other than the Republican and Democratic Parties has won a partisan election in North Carolina since the 1890’s, when the Peoples (Populist) Party won many offices.
Progressive Party Loses Ballot Status in Oregon
Ballot Access News
The Progressive Party has lost its qualified status in Oregon, because it didn’t poll as much as 1% for any statewide race in either 2016 or 2018, and it doesn’t have registration equal to at least one-half of 1%. Its only statewide nominee in 2018, Chris Henry for Governor, polled .57%.
The Progressive Party has lost its qualified status in Oregon, because it didn’t poll as much as 1% for any statewide race in either 2016 or 2018, and it doesn’t have registration equal to at least one-half of 1%. Its only statewide nominee in 2018, Chris Henry for Governor, polled .57%.
Libertarian Party Appears to Still be Ballot-Qualified in Ohio
Ballot Access News
The Libertarian Party petitioned for party status this year, submitting the petition in July 2018. It ran for Governor in November and did not get as much as 3% for Governor.
However, the Ohio law says, “3501.01(F): Political party means any group of voters meeting the requirements set forth in 3517.01 of the Revised Code for the formation and existence of a political party…(2) Minor political party means any political party organized under the laws of this state that meets either of the following requirements: (a) Except as otherwise provided in this division, the political party’s candidate for governor or nominees for presidential elector received less than 20% but not less than 3% of the total vote cast for such office at the most recent regular state election. A political party that meets the requirements of this division remains a political party for a period of four years after meeting these requirements. (b) The political party has filed with the secretary of state, subsequent to its failure to meet the requirements of division (F)(2)(a) of this section, a petition that meets the requirements of section 3517.01 of the Revised Code. A NEWLY FORMED POLITICAL PARTY SHALL BE KNOWN AS A MINOR POLITICAL PARTY UNTIL THE TIME OF THE FIRST ELECTION FOR GOVERNOR OR PRESIDENT WHICH OCCURS NOT LESS THAN TWELVE MONTHS SUBSEQUENT TO THE FORMATION OF SUCH PARTY, after which election the status of such party shall be determined by the vote for the office of governor or president.”
The capital letters have been added by me. Because the November 2018 election was less than 12 months after the petition was submitted, the 2018 election can’t be used to disqualify the Libertarian Party. By the plain language above, the party is entitled to participate in the 2020 election. Thanks to Mark Brown and Bob Johnston for this news.
The Libertarian Party petitioned for party status this year, submitting the petition in July 2018. It ran for Governor in November and did not get as much as 3% for Governor.
However, the Ohio law says, “3501.01(F): Political party means any group of voters meeting the requirements set forth in 3517.01 of the Revised Code for the formation and existence of a political party…(2) Minor political party means any political party organized under the laws of this state that meets either of the following requirements: (a) Except as otherwise provided in this division, the political party’s candidate for governor or nominees for presidential elector received less than 20% but not less than 3% of the total vote cast for such office at the most recent regular state election. A political party that meets the requirements of this division remains a political party for a period of four years after meeting these requirements. (b) The political party has filed with the secretary of state, subsequent to its failure to meet the requirements of division (F)(2)(a) of this section, a petition that meets the requirements of section 3517.01 of the Revised Code. A NEWLY FORMED POLITICAL PARTY SHALL BE KNOWN AS A MINOR POLITICAL PARTY UNTIL THE TIME OF THE FIRST ELECTION FOR GOVERNOR OR PRESIDENT WHICH OCCURS NOT LESS THAN TWELVE MONTHS SUBSEQUENT TO THE FORMATION OF SUCH PARTY, after which election the status of such party shall be determined by the vote for the office of governor or president.”
The capital letters have been added by me. Because the November 2018 election was less than 12 months after the petition was submitted, the 2018 election can’t be used to disqualify the Libertarian Party. By the plain language above, the party is entitled to participate in the 2020 election. Thanks to Mark Brown and Bob Johnston for this news.
Exclusive Interview With Prohibition Party Presidential Candidate Adam Seaman
By Adam Seaman
I asked Cody Quirk, The Owner of American Third Party Report to interview me before the upcoming Prohibition Party National Convention on November 13th.
Q: So tell us a little about yourself. How did you get into Prohibitionism, and particularly, the Prohibition Party?
A: First I got into the party. I am a huge fan of history and at the time I was looking for a political party that had history to it and of course I found them. They have a long history so I bought C.L. Gammon's book, read about it and I was enchanted. I thought to myself, this is something I can get behind. Nobody thinks Prohibition could ever happen again but nobody can tell me that it isn't a moral and just cause. So I look at it as the moral thing to do. The Prohibition Party are rebels, going against the "grain", literally, and that appeals to me.
Q: What is your opinion of the schism that happened with the PP back in 2003?
A: It was bound to happen and its unfortunate it had to come to that.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish with the PP? Do you think the party could become a viable force in politics again?
A: I think the party can become a viable force again because we are the only party to see alcohol as the problem that it is. It's a drug and drugs are a problem now more than ever in society today and we need to figure out how to rid ourselves of it for good. We are the only party looking to do that. There is a niche there, there are people out there that have been affected by this issue who have no political voice & we need to reach out to them and rebuild this party in the image of the 21st century, to take the party back to its traditional values of progressiveness and reform in the center of the political spectrum. I hope my candidacy will be the next step in that direction.
Q: In today's world where legalization of cannabis and the watering down of drug enforcement laws are happening all over our country; how do you think you can spread the party's message with the voters of the 21st century and build up support on it?
A: We have the same goal and that is to rid ourselves of this epidemic of drug use. It's not all to be blamed on illegal drugs either as you know. The legalization of Marijuana and the watering down of drug laws is just another route to get there. Society is experimenting, trying out new ways to solve this problem. We don't necessarily believe in this way but we know that the reason for it is genuinely good. It is suppose to lower drug use, it suppose to be less damaging than alcohol than hard drugs and all that, we get that. Whether or not it will work remains to be seen and there is some evidence out there that it isn't. Whatever the outcome, we are here to offer society a sober, common sense solution.
Q: Ok, so if you were elected to office, then what steps would you take through the executive and legislative branches of government to implement such policies and bring about these desired goals and vision?
A: I would go about it in as gradual a process as I could and that process would begin long before I got into office. America is a strange place in many ways. Things like whether or not Transexuals can use certain bathrooms is a political issue but Alcohol, a substance that kills and destroys the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans and costs governments on every levels millions of dollars in revenue a year, is not. It makes no sense. As massive a problem that it is, it will take time to perfect a system to put in place to ensure that this time, prohibition will remain in place.
Q: Do you say you agree with everything in the PP's current platform, or, in your personal opinion, do you think the PP could change or maybe tweak a few things in their platform?
A: In the 2016 platform there are things I agree with and disagree with. I can't imagine most people agree with everything on their respect political party platforms. As for the new platform, it is currently being revised and tweaked. You will know more in a week..
Q: Specifically, how would you turn the PP back into a viable force? Would you focus on grassroots activism or on petitioning for ballot access and getting multiple PP candidates on the ballot, or both... Or neither?
A: All of that. We need to get grassroots again, we need to get involved with temperance movements again, we need to get involved in woman's rights again, we need people willing to run on a moral and just platform again. The road maps to success are out there, we just need to look at them and apply it.
Thank you Mr. Quirk for your time :)
Wednesday, November 7, 2018
Minnesota Gains Two New Qualified Parties
Ballot Access News
Minnesota gives qualified status to any group that runs a statewide candidate and gets at least 5%. In the November 2018 election, the Grassroots-Legalize Marijuana Party got 5.73% for Attorney General. And the Legal Marijuana Now Party got 5.29% for Auditor. Therefore, they are both qualified for the next two elections. Thanks to Paul Frankel for this news.
Minnesota law permits parties to change their names, so presumably if the two parties wish to merge, the law on party name changes would allow them to join together into a single party.
Moderate Party Loses Qualified Status
Ballot Access News
The Moderate Party has lost its qualified party status in Rhode Island. Its nominee for Governor, William Gilbert, needed 5%, but he received 2.7%.
The Moderate Party has lost its qualified party status in Rhode Island. Its nominee for Governor, William Gilbert, needed 5%, but he received 2.7%.
Vermont Progressive Party Re-Elects David Zuckerman as Lieutenant Governor
Ballot Access News
Vermont voters have re-elected David Zuckerman, the Progressive Party nominee for Lieutenant Governor. See the results here, and then use the down arrow to get from the Governor’s race to the Lieutenant Governor’s race. He polled 57.1%.
Vermont voters have re-elected David Zuckerman, the Progressive Party nominee for Lieutenant Governor. See the results here, and then use the down arrow to get from the Governor’s race to the Lieutenant Governor’s race. He polled 57.1%.
Reason.com: '2018 Midterm Election Results Include a Lot for Libertarians to Like: Reason Roundup'
by Elizabeth Nolan Brown, Reason.com
There's a little bit for everybody—even libertarians—to love in last night's election results. And a little for everyone to hate, too, of course. For now, let's focus mostly on the good, which includes a once-again divided government, the ousting of some truly terrible legislators, the passage of pro-marijuana and criminal justice reform ballot measures, the failure of an attempt to take down Nevada brothels, and the re-election of the few friends of liberty we have in Washington.
U.S. House and Senate Races
The big election night news is that Democrats regained control of the U.S. House of Representatives while Republicans grew their ranks and held on to their majority in the Senate.
"As election results go, that's about the best possible outcome," suggests Eric Boehm. "Not only that, but it's an outcome that allows, for one night at least, the faintest hope that the crazy train of American politics over the past two years may be slowing to a more sensible pace."
On the federal front, the 2018 midterm elections also brought us...
• the re-election of Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie and Michigan Rep. Justin Amash, both part of the Republican Party but the closest thing we've got to libertarian leaders in Congress...
To read report in full, click here.
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
Jack Gargan, Reform Party Pioneer, Dies
Ballot Access News
In the last few days, Jack Gargan died at the age of 88 in Thailand, where he had been living. Gargan had formed an organization called T.H.R.O. in 1990, which encouraged voters not to re-elect their member of Congress. In 1991, after his movement had become quite well-known, he and John J. Hooker conceived of the idea that Ross Perot should run for President as an independent. Gargan organized mass meetings and roused the audience to encourage this idea, even giving anyone who wanted a sign that said “Run Ross Run” at a meeting at which Perot was speaking.
Gargan also became the second national chair of the Reform Party, which had been organized in 1995. In 1998, Jesse Ventura was elected Governor of Minnesota on the Reform Party ticket. Gargan welcomed that victory, but Perot did not, and Perot’s allies helped recall Gargan as national chairman in February 2000 in a national convention in Nashville. Here is the wikipedia page about Gargan.
Sunday, November 4, 2018
'Gary Johnson’s independent libertarian views aren’t fringe'
by John Vaught LeBeaume, Santa Fe New Mexican
A Taos News op-ed writer, Alma Lones (“Gary Johnson and the lure of Libertarianism,” My Turn, Sept. 27) attempts guilt-by-association and tries to to tie former Gov. Gary Johnson to some of the more radical, unforgiving stances staked out by extreme adherents of “libertarianism.” But anybody who observed his Libertarian nomination battles, let alone survived those trials-by-fire with the governor, will recognize her slapdash stab at hanging the “extremist” albatross around Gary Johnson’s neck is preposterous. Because even a simple web search will turn up plenty of invective aimed at Johnson by the self-appointed guardians of what supposedly is “real libertarianism.”
Watching the short clips from Johnson’s spot early in the 2016 election season on the TBS network’s Full Frontal with Samantha Bee vividly illustrate this “Gary Johnson is not a real libertarian” shtick. In one clip, Bee’s producers captured not only the quirky scene of the Libertarian presidential nominating convention, but also the vitriol spewed by the “Anybody but Gary” gaggle, who weren’t just quirky, but hysterical in their Stalinist suspicion of Johnson, outraged that he dares to hold his own Libertarian views, independent of what they insist is “real libertarianism.”
When I advise Libertarian candidates, I tell them that if they are genuinely interested in creating an impact in the “real world,” drop the “ism.” It’s irrelevant to the libertarian-leaning voters in the general electorate that you should be appealing to. As the late, great comedy writer Andy Breckman used to say: “Nobody knows what that means. Nobody cares.”..
To read more, click here.
Boston Globe Endorses Libertarian Dan Fishman for Massachusetts State Auditor
by Matt Welch, Reason.com
The Boston Globe today endorsed the Libertarian Party's Dan Fishman for the position of Massachusetts state auditor, the office tasked with checking under the hood of government and rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse.
The Boston Globe today endorsed the Libertarian Party's Dan Fishman for the position of Massachusetts state auditor, the office tasked with checking under the hood of government and rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse.
"It is rare for the Globe to back a candidate outside the two major parties, let alone the nominee of a party known for unconventional positions including decriminalizing recreational drugs, reinstating the gold standard, and repealing the income tax," the paper editorialized. However, "Fishman would bring a sorely needed independent streak to the office. Give this Libertarian a shot."
Fishman, a gregarious 51-year-old software engineer and regional director of the 2016 Gary Johnson/Bill Weld campaign, attracted notice in the race for his cheesy yet oddly compelling ad analogizing the auditor's position to that of a football referee:
To read article in full, click here.
Heavy.com: 'Larry Sharpe: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know'
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| Larry Sharpe |
Heavy.com
Larry Sharpe is the Libertarian candidate for governor of New York State. Sharpe, a businessman, has raised an unprecedented amount of money (compared to the amount normally raised by Libertarian candidates in New York). He is not expected to win the election — but he may win enough votes to get his party on the ballot for the next four years.
By October 31, Sharpe’s campaign had amassed $450,000. This may not sound impressive when you compare it to his opponents in the gubernatorial race. After all Andrew Cuomo, the Democratic incumbent, has raised $13,778,685 in the same time period, and the Republican candidate, Marc Molinaro, has brought in $1,914,828. But Sharpe’s war chest is unprecedented for a Libertarian candidate, and some observers think it’s an indicator that the party is growing in strength and influence in New York State.
If Sharpe manages to get at least 50,000 votes in the election, the Libertarian Party will be automatically listed on the ballot for all New York State elections over the next four years.
Here’s what you need to know about Larry Sharpe...
To read article in full click here.
See the Tennessee Ballot, with the Largest Number of Candidates for a Statewide Office in a Regularly-Scheduled Election in U.S. History
Ballot Access News
This year the Tennessee November ballot has 28 candidates for Governor. There is one Republican, one Democrat, and 26 with the label “independent.” This is the largest number of candidates ever printed on a U.S. general election ballot for a statewide office, in a regularly-scheduled election. See the ballot here. The first page, the second page, and the third page, have nothing but gubernatorial candidates.
The chief reason there are so many is that the Tennessee Libertarian Party wanted to publicize how silly the state’s ballot access laws are. The state only requires 25 signatures for an independent candidate, but 33,844 signatures for a newly-qualifying party. So the party qualified 15 Libertarians to run as independents for Governor. There is also a Green Party candidate who qualified as an independent, and the remaining 10 are actual independents. The Green is Yvonne Neubert. The Libertarians are Sherry Clark, Justin Cornett, Gabriel Fancher, Sean Fleming, William Helmstetter, Cory King, Matthew Koch, Alfred Rapoza, Heather Scott, George Smith, Jeremy Stephenson, Tracy Tisdale, Mike Toews, Vinnie Vinyard, and Jaron Weidner.
California Independent Presidential Petition in 2020 will be 196,964, Unless Lawsuit Wins
Ballot Access News
The California independent presidential petition in 2020 will be 196,964 valid signatures, to be collected in 105 days, unless the Ninth Circuit strikes down the law in De La Fuente v Padilla, 17-56668. The requirement is 1% of the number of registered voters as of the close of registration for the November 2018 election.
No other state has ever required so many signatures for an independent presidential candidate in U.S. history. However, before 1969, Ohio had no procedures for an independent presidential candidate to get on the ballot.
New Registration Tally for New York
Ballot Access News
On November 2, the New York State Board of Elections released the first registration tally since April 2018. The new statewide totals are: Democratic 5,780,030; Republican 2,633,776; Independence 442,992; Conservative 146,061; Working Families 41,853; Green 27,581; Libertarian 7,675; Women’s Equality 5,845; Reform 2,200; independent and miscellaneous 2,486,209.
The current percentages are: Democratic 49.94%; Republican 22.76%; Independence 3.83%; Conservative 1.26%; Working Families .36%; Green .24%; Libertarian .07%; Women’s Equality .05%; Reform .02%; independent and miscellaneous 21.48%.
The percentages in April 2018 were: Democratic 49.74%; Republican 23.29%; Independence 3.86%; Conservative 1.29%; Working Families .36%; Green .23%; Libertarian .06%; Women’s Equality .04%; Reform .02%; independent and miscellaneous 21.12%. Thanks to Michael Drucker for this news. All figures are active voters. When states report both active and inactive voters, BAN always uses the active voter totals.
New California Registration Data
Ballot Access News
On November 2, the California Secretary of State released a new voter registration tally, as of October 22. Here is a link.
The current percentages are: Democratic 43.45%; Republican 24.04%; American Independent 2.58%; Libertarian .76%; Green .45%; Peace & Freedom .380%; unknown .27%; independent and miscellaneous 28.07%.
The percentages at the last tally, September 7, were: Democratic 43.75%; Republican 24.50%; American Independent 2.59%; Libertarian .74%; Green .46%; Peace & Freedom .384%; unknown .25%; independent and miscellaneous 27.33%.
The two largest unqualified parties, California National and Constitution, both declined. The only party in California that gained as a percentage is the Libertarian Party.
New York Gubernatorial Debate Described
Ballot Access News
On the evening of November 1, four of the five New York gubernatorial candidates debated each other for 90 minutes. Here is a newspaper story describing the event.
On the evening of November 1, four of the five New York gubernatorial candidates debated each other for 90 minutes. Here is a newspaper story describing the event.
Four-Party Delaware U.S. Senate Debate
Ballot Access News
On October 31, the four Delaware U.S. Senate candidates debated each other. The debate was televised. The debaters were the Democratic, Republican, Libertarian and Green Party nominees. See this story.
On October 31, the four Delaware U.S. Senate candidates debated each other. The debate was televised. The debaters were the Democratic, Republican, Libertarian and Green Party nominees. See this story.
Associated Press Story on How Most of Minnesota’s Unqualified Parties Coordinated Which Statewide Offices to Run For
Ballot Access News
This Associated Press story explains that the Minnesota Green, Libertarian, and Independence Parties coordinated with each other, so that they would not run against each other for any statewide office. This was done to enhance the chances that any of them might receive 5% for a statewide race. Getting 5% in any statewide race would make them qualified. Minnesota is one of only 8 states with no qualified parties other than the Democratic and Republican Parties.
The story does not mention that the Legal Marijuana Now Party, and the Grassroots-Legalize Cannabis Party, did not participate in dividing up the statewide races. The Legal Marijuana Now Party is on for U.S. Senate and Auditor, and the Grassroots-Legalize Cannabis Party is on for Governor and Attorney General.
New Maine Registration Data
Ballot Access News
The Maine Secretary of State has just posted voter registration data as of September 28, 2018. Here is a link.
The new percentages are: Democratic 33.07%; Republican 27.39%; Green 4.13%; Libertarian .54%; independent and miscellaneous 34.88%.
The last tally was as of June 12, 2018. Then the percentages were: Democratic 32.99%; Republican 27.39%; Green 4.17%; Libertarian .54%; independent and miscellaneous 34.91%. The total number of registered voters declined between the June tally and the September tally.
CPMT National Committee Member J.R.MYERS Critiques CPMO Proposed Bylaws Changes As Reactionary
“I disagree with the assertion that, ‘a premature vote on proposed bylaw
changes at the Fall 2017 National Committee Meeting resulted in conflicting
and ambiguous language within the bylaws’. Further, I believe this proposed
measure is fear based and would seek to maintain an egregious barrier to
participation by the grassroots National Committee Members in the governance
of the National CP, and therefore should not be adopted.”
- J.R.Myers, CPMT National Committee Member #1
changes at the Fall 2017 National Committee Meeting resulted in conflicting
and ambiguous language within the bylaws’. Further, I believe this proposed
measure is fear based and would seek to maintain an egregious barrier to
participation by the grassroots National Committee Members in the governance
of the National CP, and therefore should not be adopted.”
- J.R.Myers, CPMT National Committee Member #1
****************************************************************************
A Proposal to Correct Contradictory Bylaw Language that Was Created at Fall 2017
NCM.
NCM.
Whereas the bylaws of the Constitution Party are the fundamental and core rules by which we operate
and govern ourselves and
Whereas contradictions within the bylaws create ambiguity and confusion andand govern ourselves and
Whereas a premature vote on proposed bylaw changes at the Fall 2017 National Committee Meeting
resulted in conflicting and ambiguous language within the bylaws therefore
The National Committee Members of the Constitution Party of Missouri propose the following bylaw
change to the National Committee of the Constitution Party of the United States:
Section 2.6 – National Committee Meetings
OLD:
34. At least one meeting of the National Committee per year shall be held with the members of the
35. Committee physically gathering together in one place. The National Committee may vote to
36. hold one or both meetings via electronic means or conference call. Other meetings may be held
37. via electronic means or conference call.
NEW:
34. At least one meeting of the National Committee per year shall be held with the members of the
36. hold one or both meetings via electronic means or conference call. Other meetings may be held
37. via electronic means or conference call.
NEW:
34. At least one meeting of the National Committee per year shall be held with the members of the
35. Committee physically gathering together in one place. The National Committee, under
36. extraordinary circumstances, may vote to hold one or both meetings via electronic means or
37. conference call. Other meetings may be held via electronic means or conference call.
36. extraordinary circumstances, may vote to hold one or both meetings via electronic means or
37. conference call. Other meetings may be held via electronic means or conference call.
*********************************************************************************
“We already possess ample means to regulate the internal processes and procedures of the
National Constitution Party. Therefore, there is no need to, ‘Increase Protection for our
Bylaws and Organizational Structure - Physical Presence.’ This is another fear based
effort that will result in stifling Party growth. For one thing, the CP is not the Republic.
There is no danger that we are about to be deluged by hostile takeover forces bent on our
destruction. We need to utilize available technology to welcome new members with
energy, creativity and resources. We need to decrease the cost for National Committee
Members to play. This proposal needs to be rejected as anti-growth.”
- J.R.Myers, MTCP NCM #1
National Constitution Party. Therefore, there is no need to, ‘Increase Protection for our
Bylaws and Organizational Structure - Physical Presence.’ This is another fear based
effort that will result in stifling Party growth. For one thing, the CP is not the Republic.
There is no danger that we are about to be deluged by hostile takeover forces bent on our
destruction. We need to utilize available technology to welcome new members with
energy, creativity and resources. We need to decrease the cost for National Committee
Members to play. This proposal needs to be rejected as anti-growth.”
- J.R.Myers, MTCP NCM #1
****************************************************************************
Increase Protection for our Bylaws and Organizational Structure – Physical Presence.
Whereas, the Constitution of the United States is effectively the By-Laws of the Republic and
Whereas, the Constitution of the United States is effectively the By-Laws of the Republic and
Whereas, the Framers intentionally made alteration of the Constitution a difficult and drawn out
procedure, not to be changed for light and transient reasons, and
procedure, not to be changed for light and transient reasons, and
Whereas the bylaws of the Constitution Party are the fundamental and core rules by which we operate
and govern ourselves and
and govern ourselves and
Whereas even small changes to the bylaws can have profound consequences and
Whereas it is in the best interest of the party that all National Committee members be as informed as
possible on proposed bylaw changes and
possible on proposed bylaw changes and
Whereas the ability to ask questions and gain a full understanding of proposed benefits and potential
consequences resulting from proposed bylaw changes is essential and
Whereas proposed bylaw change discussions are often very lengthy and contentious and
Whereas formal discussions on proposed bylaw changes during NC meetings are often limited by time
and
Whereas members routinely discuss proposed changes with other members before, after and during the
meeting breaks and
Whereas remote (electronic) participation in proposed bylaw motions, discussions and amendments at
NC Meetings will certainly extend the time required to discuss, amend and adopt bylaw changes
Therefore, the National Committee Members of the Constitution Party of Missouri propose these
bylaw changes to the National Committee of the Constitution Party of the United States:
NC Meetings will certainly extend the time required to discuss, amend and adopt bylaw changes
Therefore, the National Committee Members of the Constitution Party of Missouri propose these
bylaw changes to the National Committee of the Constitution Party of the United States:
ARTICLE VI – Amendments
NEW Append
Voting Eligibility
C. In addition to all other defined voting requirements in these bylaws, a National Committee Member
shall only be eligible to vote on bylaw changes if they are physically present at the primary meeting
location in which the vote is held.
C. In addition to all other defined voting requirements in these bylaws, a National Committee Member
shall only be eligible to vote on bylaw changes if they are physically present at the primary meeting
location in which the vote is held.
A quorum for bylaw changes shall be at least one eligible representative from a majority of the eligible
member state affiliates. Eligible remote (electronic) attendees may cast or withhold, a proxy attendance
vote toward establishment of a quorum for bylaw changes.
member state affiliates. Eligible remote (electronic) attendees may cast or withhold, a proxy attendance
vote toward establishment of a quorum for bylaw changes.
*********************************************************************************
“While I understand the motivation of wanting a reliable revenue stream, this will further
alienate affiliates and members. We do not need to be closing the gates. We need to be
finding ways to welcome and utilize new talent, develop new generations of leaders and
move forward now. This measure must be rejected as reactionary, and again, fear based
and punitive to the membership.”
- J.R.Myers, CPMT NCM#1
alienate affiliates and members. We do not need to be closing the gates. We need to be
finding ways to welcome and utilize new talent, develop new generations of leaders and
move forward now. This measure must be rejected as reactionary, and again, fear based
and punitive to the membership.”
- J.R.Myers, CPMT NCM#1
***************************************************************************
B) State Assessments – “in good standing” - restrictions on EC participation for
non payment.
non payment.
Whereas the Constitution Party of the United States operates on a limited budget and
Whereas the Constitution Party assists states in many areas, such as ballot access, and
Whereas the Constitution Party assists states in many areas, such as ballot access, and
Whereas without funding the Constitution Party would be unable to provide such assistance to affiliate
states and
Whereas state assessments represent a significant portion of Constitution Party funding and
states and
Whereas state assessments represent a significant portion of Constitution Party funding and
Whereas decisions regarding budgeting and special projects are voted on by the National Committee
and
Whereas it is unfair and unequal for affiliate states that choose not to pay their annual assessment to
have an equal voice in the budget and other financial interests of the party
Therefore, the National Committee Members of the Constitution Party of Missouri propose these
bylaw changes to the National Committee of the Constitution Party of the United States:
Section 2.3 – Membership
A. Membership from State Affiliates
OLD:
28. Each member may vote in a National Committee meeting upon payment of the National Committee
member fee for that calendar year.
NEW:
An Affiliate State will be deemed to be a member “in good standing” at any point in a calendar year in
which the annual state assessment has either been paid in full for entire calendar year or for which a
pro-rated amount has been paid through the date in question using not smaller than monthly increments.
An affiliate state will be deemed to be a member in good standing “for a calendar year” for which the
state's entire annual assessment has been paid in full prior to the last day of the year in question.
member fee for that calendar year.
NEW:
An Affiliate State will be deemed to be a member “in good standing” at any point in a calendar year in
which the annual state assessment has either been paid in full for entire calendar year or for which a
pro-rated amount has been paid through the date in question using not smaller than monthly increments.
An affiliate state will be deemed to be a member in good standing “for a calendar year” for which the
state's entire annual assessment has been paid in full prior to the last day of the year in question.
A National Committee member will be deemed to be “in good standing” for any calendar year in
which the National Committee member fee has been paid for the National Committee Member for
that calendar year.
Section 2.4 – Officers
A. Elected Officers
NEW - insert:
To be eligible to be an officer elect, an individual must be a National Committee Member in good
standing and represent an affiliate state member that is either a) in good standing at the time of the
election or b) was in good standing for the calendar year prior to the election.
To be eligible to be an officer elect, an individual must be a National Committee Member in good
standing and represent an affiliate state member that is either a) in good standing at the time of the
election or b) was in good standing for the calendar year prior to the election.
The elected officers shall be:
ARTICLE III – Executive Committee
NEW – append:
Each member of the Executive Committee shall be entitled to cast one vote of equal value with all
other members of the committee, on matters that come before the committee, provided that the
member's respective state is/was an affiliate state member in good standing at some point during
the six (6) month period prior to the date said vote is to be cast. Proxy votes are not permitted.
member's respective state is/was an affiliate state member in good standing at some point during
the six (6) month period prior to the date said vote is to be cast. Proxy votes are not permitted.
*********************************************************************************
B) State Assessments – “in good standing” - restrictions on EC participation for
non payment.
non payment.
Whereas the Constitution Party of the United States operates on a limited budget and
Whereas the Constitution Party assists states in many areas, such as ballot access, and
Whereas the Constitution Party assists states in many areas, such as ballot access, and
Whereas without funding the Constitution Party would be unable to provide such assistance to affiliate
states and
Whereas state assessments represent a significant portion of Constitution Party funding and
states and
Whereas state assessments represent a significant portion of Constitution Party funding and
Whereas decisions regarding budgeting and special projects are voted on by the National Committee
and
Whereas it is unfair and unequal for affiliate states that choose not to pay their annual assessment to
have an equal voice in the budget and other financial interests of the party
Therefore, the National Committee Members of the Constitution Party of Missouri propose these
bylaw changes to the National Committee of the Constitution Party of the United States:
Section 2.3 – Membership
A. Membership from State Affiliates
OLD:
28. Each member may vote in a National Committee meeting upon payment of the
National Committee member fee for that calendar year.
NEW:
An Affiliate State will be deemed to be a member “in good standing” at any point in a calendar
year in which the annual state assessment has either been paid in full for entire calendar year or
for which a pro-rated amount has been paid through the date in question using not smaller than
monthly increments. An affiliate state will be deemed to be a member in good standing “for a
calendar year” for which the state's entire annual assessment has been paid in full prior to the
last day of the year in question.
National Committee member fee for that calendar year.
NEW:
An Affiliate State will be deemed to be a member “in good standing” at any point in a calendar
year in which the annual state assessment has either been paid in full for entire calendar year or
for which a pro-rated amount has been paid through the date in question using not smaller than
monthly increments. An affiliate state will be deemed to be a member in good standing “for a
calendar year” for which the state's entire annual assessment has been paid in full prior to the
last day of the year in question.
A National Committee member will be deemed to be “in good standing” for any calendar year in
which the National Committee member fee has been paid for the National Committee Member for
that calendar year.
Section 2.4 – Officers
A. Elected Officers
NEW - insert:
To be eligible to be an officer elect, an individual must be a National Committee Member in good
standing and represent an affiliate state member that is either a) in good standing at the time of the
election or b) was in good standing for the calendar year prior to the election.
To be eligible to be an officer elect, an individual must be a National Committee Member in good
standing and represent an affiliate state member that is either a) in good standing at the time of the
election or b) was in good standing for the calendar year prior to the election.
The elected officers shall be:
ARTICLE III – Executive Committee
NEW – append:
Each member of the Executive Committee shall be entitled to cast one vote of equal value with all
other members of the committee, on matters that come before the committee, provided that the
member's respective state is/was an affiliate state member in good standing at some point during
the six (6) month period prior to the date said vote is to be cast. Proxy votes are not permitted.
other members of the committee, on matters that come before the committee, provided that the
member's respective state is/was an affiliate state member in good standing at some point during
the six (6) month period prior to the date said vote is to be cast. Proxy votes are not permitted.
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