June 22, 2010

As Libertarian Party Chair, it is my job to make sure that the party continues to function, and that I have something of value to hand over to my successor next year. With that in mind, I am running for Governor, in order to make sure that we have enough statewide votes (a little over 2% of the statewide tally) to keep our ballot access. With this access comes the right to have supporters designate $2.00 of their tax money every year to assist the party with campaigns. I am fortunate to have Aric Cramer, a distinguished attorney in St. George, as my running mate for Lt. Governor. The ticket is strong; and we are qualified to fill the offices which we seek. I am confident that we will show well in the upcoming election, and that the Libertarian Party will continue to grow.

Today, the Utah supreme court stirred things up a bit, when they granted the petition of an independent candidate, Farley Anderson, to appear on the ballot. An independent candidate for statewide office must get 1,000 signatures of support on a petition, to appear on the ballot. The interesting legal question was whether he could count signatures obtained online. Now that people can register to vote online, the Court agreed that it was time to count these signatures.

It is a good ruling, I think. And, if our party ever has to again seek signatures to obtain ballot access (if we do not hit that 2% statewide goal) it will be much easier for us to do so. BUT, the existence of another "alternative candidate" on the ballot will undoubtedly drain away at least a few votes from our ticket. It is therefore more important than ever to make sure we do what is necessary to preserve our party, and to make a creditable showing for this important race. I urge you all to get involved with passing out fliers, participating in events, making monetary contributions, and whatever else will help build our party. It would, of course, be extremely embarrassing if Mr. Anderson gets more votes than Aric and I do. Let's get to work and make sure that does not happen.