This letter was published in The Record, 12/6/2017

In the Dec. 5 edition of The Record, a letter appeared in which the writer insinuates that Libertarianism is somehow part and parcel of conservative Republican politics. Most Republicans I know are just as hostile towards the Libertarian pro-freedom viewpoint as Democrats on the left are. Neither group thinks that individuals should be allowed to make their own choices in life with regard to personal freedom or economic freedom. To their way of thinking, we exist to serve the greater collective; this is the basis for every authoritarian and totalitarian ideology that has ever blighted human history.

Also, in the nearly 40 years that I’ve been involved with the Libertarian movement, I have met very few people who believe in no government at all. More than 90 percent merely want limited government in accordance with the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Is the smear of Libertarians based on honest ignorance or is it deliberate?

In the case of the letter in question, I detect a strong degree of animosity and envy towards the rich and private corporations. Race, religious, gender and sexual orientation hatred gets condemned (as all should be) but class hatred is acceptable. Both the left and the right have agendas – none of which are based on true tolerance or liberty. Hopefully, more and more people aren't falling for the lies of either side.

Mark Richards
West Milford