[TheBagman]

Dear Mr. O'Reilly,



On a recent airing of your show, The O'Reilly Factor, you made the statement, "I'm not a 'Star Wars' fan. I can't tell a Wookie from a Libertarian." While I appreciate the light-hearted, comedic manner in which you were offering this observation, hopefully this letter will give you some much needed insight into the array of people across the nation who are proud members of the Libertarian Party.



While Democrats and Republicans constantly speak of "freedom" and "liberty" their actions contradict their words. Libertarians believe in -- and work toward -- returning true freedom and liberty to the people of this nation. This is not done through extreme measures as it starts with fewer taxes and smaller government; the same ideals once touted by Republicans who failed to deliver.



Libertarians are guided by common sense principles and not by far right or far left ideologies. It can be argued that the Libertarian Party is the rational conscience of the nation.



The Libertarian Party is comprised of everyday Americans who share an extraordinary hope for America. We work hard, pay our taxes, love our families and serve our nation. We are your bus drivers, doctors, secretaries, firemen, laborers and executives. We all work together, despite overwhelming odds, to make the nation that we love and honor a better place for future generations.



The Libertarian Party is not for everyone. You must be willing to think for yourself and not be guided by rhetoric or a daily set of talking points. Libertarians place their loyalty to their nation, their families and themselves above their loyalty to a political party. We believe that in order to enact change an individual must lead, not be led. This is in stark contrast with the two governing parties of this nation who would rather carry an obedient membership instead of an empowered membership. The Libertarian Party is open to anyone who has the desire and rational thought to make this nation better.



While we are admittedly the underdog in nearly every race or action that we choose to enter, we do not quit, our principles do not waver and in defeat we will get back up and show again with determination in our hearts.



Keep an eye on us, Mr. O'Reilly, because every once in a while an underdog becomes a champion.



Best Regards,



Joe Seehusen

National Executive Director

Libertarian National Committee, Inc.
http://www.lp.org/fp/article_143.shtml