Joining the group

[Nick Nilsen]

I am very new to this site and I would like to join the New York Libertarian group. I have been a registered Republican since voting age and over the last 3-4 years and this election cycle I have become very discouraged with the direction of the party and have since become very interested in Ron Paul's campaign to change the party back to its more libertarian/paleo conservative roots. I tried to join the group but the site would not let me. Do I need permission? I am also a member of the Campaign for Liberty site and would be interested in trying to organize groups Libertarian groups throughout NY.I am eager to even help to run/work on a Congressional campaign for the right candidate or even condier running myself. I honestly think it starts with trying to take control of some local Republican committees and start a grassroots movement. The philosophy of limited govt. I think is a powerful one if there is honesty and true action taken behind the promises, unlike the current incarnation of the Republican party. I think there is an opportunity for real change within the Republican party to a more libertarian thought over the next 2-4 years as the current government run completely by Democrats continues the process of bailing out failing companies and expanding the governments reach into everything and anything. I look forward to meeting you all and starting something I think is important.

[edward donald staley]

I'm right on your page. I to am a member of the campaign for liberty and am a precinct leader as well (you should find me on their site and add me as a contact). I was never a registered Republican before, but I did very reluctantly, often vote that way. I have always been registered simply as "other", but I am a Libertarian through and through. The difference with me has always been that I think of libertarian idealism as a philosophy, no need for it to be a party by itself. It should be the philosophy of the Republican party. No one would argue that it is a very conservative party that "steals votes from the Republicans" or that it's ideas rest much more softly on Republican minds. During the primaries, I was able to get every Republican I know to back Paul, as well as most independents; Democrats were a MUCH more difficult sell. The difference between the common Republican and the common Libertarian is not ideals often enough, as it is how much hypocrisy they are willing to put up with. We need to follow Paul's advice and pull every Libertarian leaning independent into the Republican party and fight for some true and attainable change.
I recently attended a presentation by Primary Challenge, in Alden, NY, that talked about exactly how we can get involved hands-on in the process at the committee level. I think many would find it very informative and I'm going to have it posted online soon (I taped it).