Q&A

The Libertarian Party is probably the least understood political party. We are both liberal and conservative, and neither. The present view of politics may not apply to us. The common person may have a hard time seeing things from a libertarian's point of view. The intended purpose of this page is to shed some light on us.

Local Party

What does LPCC stand for?

• Libertarian Party of Clark County (Washington)

How does one become a member of the LPCC?

• To be an official member of the LPCC, one need only pay a yearly dues and sign a statement of adherence to the principle of freedom. You must be a resident of Clark County WA and able to read and understand the membership requirements contained in our bylaws. Anyone can register on our website, member or not.

Is the LPCC officially recognized by the National Libertarian Party?

• Yes, we are the official party for Clark County Washington, approved by the LP of Washington State.

Libertarians

What sets libertarians apart from members of other political parties?

• Libertarians understand and are committed to the principles of liberty. We are tolerant of all decisions and activities of other people as long as they do not violate the rights of other individuals. We accept that no individual or group of individuals has the right to violate any individual rights.

How are the rights of individuals violated?

• The main principle of liberty states that no individual or group of individuals may initiate force or fraud against any other individual or group.

• Here's a simple example that hardly anyone can contend. If a man comes to your door, holds a gun to your head and tells you to give him your possessions, you do it because he is initiating a threat of force against you. He doesn't have to use that force.

• When a government requires an individual to obtain a license to build a structure on his private property, it is initiating threat of force against that individual. If the individual does not obtain a license, he will be fined. If he does not pay the fine, two or more representatives of that group (police officers) will appear on his doorstep with guns and forcibly take him to jail. Usually it doesn't get that far.

Are Libertarians opposed to taxation?

• We oppose taxation that violates the principle of liberty.

• The government lacks the right to force individuals to pay for a service they do not choose to use. Everyone uses the service of national defense. However, only a small group would choose to pay for Israel's military, and most likely not those of Palestinian descent.

• Not everyone would choose to use social security as a retirement savings service. Some people want to manage their own savings. Some people don't trust the government to wisely manage their retirement savings.

How do Libertarians view the role of government?

• Protection: Libertarians do not necessarily believe in government. Libertarians are more concerned that the rights of the individual are not violated. One thing governments are really good at is the administration of justice and defense. Proper government is in the best interest of the individual.

• Private Contract Enforcement: The economy depends on private contracts being enforced. When you agree to pay someone for a service, both parties should be bound to observe the contract. If contracts were not enforced, no one would have a job and trade would cease.