Today, in supposed honor of Independence Day, those opposed to taxes celebrated a TEA Party at the State Capitol. I was invited, at the very last minute, as Libertarian Party Chair, to make some remarks.

As I arrived, I saw a fairly good crowd, mostly right wing (think Sen. Buttars) Republicans. But I had a short message to give, that one can oppose the growth of government, and increasing taxes without being a "conservative" (one who hates gvernment when it bothers them, but wants it to bother all those who they don't agree with, which is most everyone). I checked in with the organizer and set up a little table for brochures. I signed up a couple of people for our mailing list and handed out several Libertarian brochures. While doing so, I listened to the head of the Utah Minutemen rail against foreigners, and then a couple of Republicans rail against most everything. I waited for my chance to say that Libertarians oppose governmetn interference in our lives at all levels, and envision a government that does not spend our money on wars, (including wars on drugs and free speech), and encourages all to support themselves and leave each other alone.

When the list of speakers was announced, My name was not there. I immediately had several people come over and ask why not. I had no idea, of course; but I knew that it was very hot, and that most of the people there didn't want to listen to me anyway. So, here I am, back at my office spreading our message in a quieter manner. It is my belief that most of our founding fathers were Libertarians like me. So, we will continue to spread the message as we can. And, perhaps a few right wing Republcians will come away from the rally with a little too much sun. More power to them.