Opinion by Doug Craig –
Chairman Libertarian Party of Georgia
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Runoff likely in Governor’s race – Libertarians need your vote.
Georgia’s race for governor will likely be decided in a runoff. Neither Deal nor Carter will have enough votes to win outright, according to several recent polls.
Libertarian candidate Andrew Hunt is polling above 7% and continues to travel the state talking issues and seeking voters support.
The prize for the Libertarian Party is 20%. By law, if a “third party” receives 20% in a gubernatorial or presidential race the party will receive full political party status. This means not only will the Libertarian Party have statewide ballot access, libertarian candidates can run in district and county races without the restrictive petition signature requirements.
We know that 40% of registered voters are not likely to vote this November. The two major parties are just not energizing voters and they’ve become disenchanted with politics as usual. We need them to vote for the Libertarian Party candidates.
Georgia has some of the most restrictive ballot access laws in the nation. These laws were enacted to keep down competition and limit the choice for voters.
Georgia has a choice – The Libertarian Party. Our platform of limited government and maximum freedom appeals to most voters. Yet, encouraging them to vote for “the other guy” has been a challenge.
Voters are often reluctant to vote for third party candidate for fear of “throwing their vote away”. In this race, a vote for Libertarian Andrew Hunt will have less impact since a runoff is likely. Voters can give Andrew Hunt their vote and help the Libertarian Party receive full ballot access and access to the primary voting system.
Full political party status for libertarians will be a historical event. It will change politics in Georgia forever. Can you imagine three political parties with a level playing field? Voters will have a real choice on the state and local level. No more unopposed races where Democrats and Republicans glide into office with little accountability or scrutiny. Libertarians love competition in business and politics.
We are asked – when will the Libertarian Party elect a governor in Georgia? We cannot predict when, but we remind everyone that it took the Republican Party more than 100 years to elect a governor in Georgia.
The Libertarian Party was established less than 50 years ago. While we still have challenges ahead, we have made great strides and have had an impact on policy and the future of our state.
Please vote November 4th. A vote for the Libertarian Party is not a wasted vote, it is an investment in our future.
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