JonesboroRightNow publishes opinion pieces representing both sides of a variety of topics. Opinions presented do not necessarily reflect those of the newsroom or management. To join the conversation, visit jonesbororightnow.com/opinions.

Dear Editor,

As I sit here on the porch of my home in small-town Arkansas, I look quizzically at the cloudy water from the faucet in my kitchen sink and contemplate the curious state of our nation’s political landscape. In my little town, the city government issued a statement that this cloudy water is tested and safe to consume after a water pump malfunction and replacement; yet they could not offer any insight into why the water is cloudy nor when it would clear up. It was not long ago that a water crisis in Flint, Michigan led to tens of thousands of residents being exposed to harmful substances—all at the hands of the government they were told to trust.

While I do not believe the water I hold in my hand is necessarily toxic, the lack of full transparency regarding its condition leaves me with more questions than answers. This tends to be my general sentiment toward all levels of government. However, in a political arena dominated by the same tired faces and recycled promises of a better future, the Libertarian Party offers a breath of fresh air.

Much like the thrill of sitting in the marshes on a crisp, late-November morning, the Libertarian stance appeals to one’s sense of adventure and individual freedom. This is not merely about casting a vote; it is about embracing a philosophy that champions personal liberty, and a government as restrained as your well-trained hunting dog, waiting to collect the reward of your patience in the duck blind.

At the heart of Libertarian philosophy is the belief that every individual possesses inherent rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—rights not granted by the government but seen as natural entitlements that must be protected from infringement. Libertarians argue that the primary role of government is to safeguard these natural rights, not to expand its reach into the personal and economic lives of its citizens.

I urge my fellow citizens to consider this: the Libertarian platform calls for liberating ourselves from the heavy-handed grasp of bureaucracy and overregulation; it invites us to trust in our ability to govern our lives and make decisions that best serve our interests. Libertarianism is akin to choosing the right time to take a shot from your duck blind—precision, strategy, and a belief in your own judgment.

Chase Oliver—a prominent Libertarian and candidate for POTUS—has consistently championed personal freedom and minimal government interference. His advocacy for lower taxes, reduced regulation, and the protection of civil liberties, including Freedom of Speech, resonates with those who believe in empowering individuals to make their own choices, much like your choice to go duck hunting without endless regulations and restrictions. www.votechaseoliver.com

Dr. Michael Pakko—another notable Libertarian candidate who is running for Arkansas State Treasurer—brings a pragmatic focus to economic policies. His expertise in economics and commitment to free-market principles reflect a dedication to fostering economic growth through less government intervention. Dr. Pakko’s vision aligns with the Libertarian belief that allowing businesses and individuals the freedom to operate without excessive regulatory constraints and unnecessary taxation is the best way to achieve a thriving economy. https://pakko4ar.com/

Dr. Steve Parsons—candidate for Arkansas Congressional District 1—exemplifies the Libertarian dedication to personal responsibility and accountability. His campaign emphasizes the importance of local solutions and community involvement, advocating for a decentralized approach to governance that put decision-making power closer to the people. Dr. Parsons demonstrates that the solution to problems such as inflation is to reduce the federal government—not expand it; government is more likely to be part of the problem than the solution. https://www.steveparsonslibertarian.com/

Together, these men represent a vision of governance rooted in the principles of freedom, individual choice, and limited government. Their candidacies provide an opportunity to consider an alternative approach that prioritizes personal liberty and respects the autonomy of individuals and businesses. Therefore, whether it is an issue of cloudy water in your city, keeping more money in your wallet, fostering a more thriving economy, or simply limiting restrictions so you can duck hunt in peace, we have the chance to support these candidates in November. I hope that the ideals championed by Oliver, Pakko, and Parsons are considered as we look toward the future of our great country, state, and local communities.

If you are interested in joining a Zoom event with POTUS Candidate Chase Oliver on August 17, 2024, feel free to e-mail me at melissa.crow@olivertermaat.com. I will have five spots available for this ticketed event! Let me know in the email why you are interested in attending and learning more about Chase and Libertarianism.

Sincerely,
Melissa Crow


JonesboroRightNow publishes opinion pieces representing both sides of a variety of topics. Opinions presented do not necessarily reflect those of the newsroom or management. To join the conversation, visit jonesbororightnow.com/opinions.