Like everyone else amidst this upcoming presidential election, I'm tired. I'm tired of feeling stuck between two evils. I'm tired of the media controlling what we talk about by spoon-feeding us minimal and specified information. I'm tired of seeing Hillary and Donald bicker at each other like children. I'm just tired. I refuse to feel this way any longer, and I hope my fellow Americans can relate. I'm here today to tell you that there is a better option.
What is this better option, you ask? You can call him Gary Johnson. For those of you as frustrated as I am, this man is a beacon of hope. A Libertarian, Johnson often insists that he wants "the government out of your pocketbook and out of your bedroom." He believes in an America that really is free. Merriam-Webster defines a Libertarian as "an advocate of the doctrine of free will." So basically, say and do what you want while others say and do what they want with as little government interference as possible. A Libertarian is someone who upholds liberty of the utmost importance, as the name would suggest. They are often described as "fiscally conservative and socially liberal."
Johnson served as the governor of New Mexico for two terms and is well-versed in the world of politics (unlike another candidate who has no political experience whatsoever). He also knows the value of hard work and perseverance as he paid his way through college by his skills and tireless effort in handyman work (rather than through daddy's money). He then started his own business in 1976, which flourished into one of the most successful construction companies in the state by the time he sold it and entered into politics. You might also be surprised to learn he received the most successful Libertarian Party voter turnout ever in our nation's history when he ran for president in 2012.
But what's so great about this guy? Well, besides the fact he's the most reasonable candidate for a majority of Americans, let me just explain. This is a man that appeals to both Republicans and Democrats. He takes our national debt seriously and has proposed a plan to strategically balance our budget and cut unnecessary spending. He believes in strict term limits. He is an advocate for international and personal security. He wants our soldiers home with their families. He would create jobs that Americans desperately need just as he has done (immensely well I might add) in the past. He plans to cut out the corruption of taxes which penalize productivity and investment and replace income taxes with a uniform and unbiased consumption tax, so individuals solely control what they are taxed.
Still not impressed? He views immigration realistically and welcomes the boost to our economy with the push toward more obtainable work visas. He promotes individual liberties and freedoms for all Americans. He is genuine, honest and diligent (so you don't have to worry about any deleted emails). He prioritizes America's needs over the problems of other countries. He is for marriage equality, civil rights, women's rights, and pretty much the rights all Americans should have in general. He supports reform within our criminal justice system to create a society where people can trust law enforcement and not be imprisoned for illogical laws (as in who cares if you want to smoke a little weed?). He is for education reform so that our students and our educators can thrive.
And I know what you're thinking; there's no way this guy could win. But I'm going to tell you something. You ready? OK. Gary Johnson could very well be the next president of the United States. (Read that sentence one more time for good measure). But not without your support. He will not win if people carry on with this false belief and attitude that a better option is simply not possible. Don't let the media fool you into thinking you're stuck. Unlike the other candidates, Gary Johnson is fighting for America, and not just for office. When you go to vote this November, remember that voting for a third party is not a waste. What is a waste, however, is a vote for a candidate simply because you hate the other one more. He already has a considerable amount of support from both sides of the spectrum. America no longer has to continue this division between parties that strays us from progress. Vote with integrity. Vote for someone you truly believe in, and not against someone else. Stand behind your candidate's beliefs and cast your vote with confidence knowing you made the right choice to stand behind the better option.
If you feel inspired to learn more or show your support, here are some links to guide you:
Facebook (feel free to like it to stay updated!)
Website (where you can also donate or sign a petition to include Johnson in debates)
Fight on, my fellow Americans. And remember, you deserve more than either Clinton or Trump can give you.
