REPORT: Libertarian Party of Indiana State Convention

I recently had the chance to attend the 2013 Indiana Libertarian convention, it stood in rather sharp contrast to the Republican State convention that I visited in 2012. The three day gathering of libertarians was reportedly one of the largest state conventions nationally for the growing third party. I arrived at the Columbus IN. Convention Center early Saturday morning and I have to admit driving into a parking lot filled with cars plastered with Ron Paul and Gary Johnson stickers was quite enjoyable.

After a presentation from the Vice Chairman on their new software organization system, Ed Bell spoke. A farmer, Bell survived a brutal shooting that left him paralyzed. He spoke on the effects of tyranny in the nation and was a pleasure to listen to. Sheriff Brad Rogers of Elkhart County was up next, he explained the duties of a constitutional sheriff and some of the incidents that brought him to that position. After a very tasty lunch and a business meeting, Mike Maherrey the communications director for the Tenth Amendment Center took the podium. In a very informative and passionate speech he described both the history of the principle of nullification, and it’s practical uses. I highly recommend you check out the center’s work. One of the highlights of the day was the after dinner entertainment by comedian Tim Slagle. His combination of jokes and political commentary were hilarious. (A quick YouTube search for Tim Slagle – Taxes will reveal some of that)

Before leaving Sunday morning, I had the honor of attending the 1994 Society breakfast keynoted by former LPIN Executive Director Chris Spangle. He spoke on the generational thought differences that occur and how liberty minded people can reach out to others. He emphasized that after going to many conventions around the nation that young libertarians are more interested in the candidates and their principles then an actual party structure. He pointed to the 2008 candidacy of Dr. Ron Paul as the one that sparked much of the modern libertarian momentum. After the elder Paul dropped out of the race and retired, Spangle then mentioned Sen. Rand Paul’s 13 hour filibuster as an event that helped revive the spark once again. He really drove home the point that the focus should not be necessarily on parties but on the positions and candidates. It was nice to meet new people and reconnect with others. Overall it was a great experience and I look forward to personally working with the LP on many issues that we find common ground on.

Benjamin Rogers, IndianaPolitico