"VOTE -- AND VOTE OFTEN"

Welcome to the Texas Legislature...

During my campaign I visited all four counties comprising Texas House District 73 multiple times. As a result, I met literally hundreds of people along the way, and I must say that the majority embraced my Campaign Slogan: "I'm mad as Hell... and I bet you are, too!" even if they didn't vote for me.

Of all the things to be legitimately mad about, the citizens of the Texas Hill Country showed overwhelming indignation to one activity in particular: Voting Fraud in the Texas Legislature as reported by the Austin CBS affiliate, KEYE-TV. For those of you who have not seen this video, please take a few minutes to watch. (Be advised, the actions taken by your State Representatives are more than reprehensible.)

Had I been elected I would have been the loudest whistle-blower imaginable. Any State Representative who I saw voting on behalf of an absent colleague would have been called out publicly -- loud and clear. Make no mistake, given the opportunity I would have personally contacted every media outlet available to me on every occasion this contemptible practice occurred.

Believe me, the Foghorn at Matagorda Bay isn't as loud as I would have been. My sincere wish is that someone speaks up this time around.





"Thou shalt not steal...even by majority vote."
(Gary North)

More of the Same? Vote NO! Vote NOwotny!

It is time for another sea of blue to begin sprouting up in the Texas Hill Country, and while political yard signs are nowhere as beautiful as bluebonnets, they are a necessity for anyone running a serious campaign.

Now I am sure some of you are asking, "Why would I want this cluttering up my front yard?"

I think there are many reasons, but here's just one to consider:

Think of these little "beauties" as an investment. Yes, an investment. When I become the first Libertarian elected to the Texas Legislature, these yard signs could command a nice price on eBay. Hey, I've seen "I Like Ike" buttons going for a few bucks, and he's old history.

"A yard sign in my front yard?" As Kinky Friedman would say, "Why the Hell not?"

For those of you living within Texas House District 73, please contact me and I will see that a yard sign is delivered to you quickly. Thanks!

VOTE FOR less government and MORE BEER!!

(Kathie Glass, Libertarian Candidate for Governor, with yours truly...)

Talk about a Campaign Slogan!

...Better than "Tippecanoe and Tyler Too!"

...Better than "I Like Ike"

...And a Hell of a lot better than "Change We Can Believe In"

Need we say more?

LETTER TO THE EDITOR -- #1

Between now and November 2nd (Election Day) I will be sending a "Letter To The Editor" to all of the area newspapers on a weekly basis. Posted below is the first in this series -- it has already been printed by The Bulverde Standard.



Dear Editor:

Groucho Marx once said, "These are my principles. And if you don't like them, I have others."

Leave it to Groucho to tell it like it is. Today's professional politicians say and do whatever they think will get them elected, and then reelected and reelected again. Forget the will of the constituency -- it takes money to get reelected over and over again. And forget campaign promises -- if more money can be raised changing positions on an issue, so be it. Heck, a fella's gotta do what a fella's gotta do...

That's why I am for Term Limits. I believe that by mandating Term Limits for every elected office in the State of Texas, not to mention the Federal Government and Local Government as well, we can make a significant improvement to regaining honest, accountable representation. If elected, I will introduce legislation to mandate Term Limits. This will be met with enormous opposition by the fat cats who thrive within the current system, but it is a start, and if we show enough resolve and perseverance, we can succeed.

Think of me as "The Terminator."

Robert Nowotny
Libertarian Candidate
Texas State Representative, District 73

www.NeedToVote.com

CUFF 'EM, CLUB 'EM OR SHOOT 'EM

One of the more memorable lines in my latest feature-length motion picture -- PALO PINTO GOLD -- is a veteran Texas Ranger's admonishment to his young sidekick that whenever you come across one of the bad guys you either "cuff 'em, club 'em or shoot 'em."

Having signed the "Code Of Fair Campaign Practices" with the Texas Ethics Commission, I am limited to what I can do during my campaign to be elected Texas State Representative, District 73. No cuffin', clubin' or shootin' is allowed -- but I can do some mighty hard campaignin' and that's what I aim to do. So here's an offer I hope you can't refuse -- please click on the link below to see how you can get a "Special Edition -- Director's Cut" DVD of PALO PINTO GOLD as a personal "thank you" from me.





Who needs another refrigerator magnet or ball point pen or bumper sticker -- a good, old-fashioned Western movie, "just like they used to make them," is much better.

Popcorn anyone?

NATIONAL RECOGNITION

Mark Rutherford is the Libertarian Party National Vice Chair. Mark recently announced his personal list of the TOP 75 Libertarian Candidates running for election nationwide in 2010. I am very pleased to report that my campaign is on this prestigious list.

Besides identifying his Top 75 from a national perspective, Mark also addressed his assessment of how each state is performing.

Here's what Mark wrote about Texas:

As Libertarian Party National Vice Chair - I hear a lot about campaigns across the nation. A lot of good reports come from Texas.

The Texas Libertarian Party has really grown over the last six years, and is running very good candidates, and lots of them.

Here are some candidates and campaigns in Texas in which I'm hearing some good things:

1. John Jay Meyers 32 US House www.johnjaymyers.com 214-824-4150
2. David Smith 2 US House www.dsmithforcongress.com 832-329-5313
3. Robert Nowotny for State Rep 73 www.needtovote.com 830-228-5950
4. Jim Prindle 4 US House www.prindleforcongress 214-909-2311
5. Bruce West 8 US House www.brucewestforcongress.com 281-622-0732
6. Jim Strohm 21 US House www.strohmforcongress.com 713-242-8691
7. Jim Stutsman 25 US House 512-797-3905
8. Ed Mishou 27 US House 956-541-7091

There are 160 Libertarian candidates running for office in Texas -- and to be among the eight chosen by Mark is extremely gratifying.

Of course, none of the recognition I have received over the past month or two would be possible without the tremendous support of a whole lot of people -- family, old friends and a whole bunch of new friends as well. And so I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for all they have done and continue to do. Together, we can make history as I become the first Libertarian candidate elected to the Legislature in the Lone Star State!

There will be more "news" posted soon, so please check back frequently.

A REALLY COOL CANDIDATE

Far be it from me to declare myself "A Really Cool Candidate" -- but a picture is worth a thousand words...

Yes, this is your intrepid Libertarian candidate enjoying a shot of premium Vodka at the world's first "Ice Bar" in Stockholm, Sweden. Everything in the Ice Bar is made of ice -- the walls, floor, ceiling, even the glasses. The room temperature is kept at a constant 17 degrees Farenheit, but the fur coat they provide as you enter keeps you quite warm -- so does the 80 proof Absolute...

As for me becoming the first Libertarian candidate to be elected to the Texas State Legislature, here are two things everyone should know:

1. Campaign donations have now exceeded $7,500.00 -- a very substantial sum that is the envy of most Libertarian candidates nationwide. I hereby want to thank everyone who has already contributed. Thank you -- thank you very much.

I would also like to encourage those who haven't contributed thus far to please consider doing so. Remember, anyone who donates $25 or more will receive the "Special Edition -- Director's Cut" DVD of PALO PINTO GOLD as a personal thank you. This feature-length, family friendly Western stars Roy Clark and Mel Tillis and features a number of Texas-based celebrities, including Kinky Friedman who plays the Governor of Texas. What a deal!

(Details regarding this movie, the most recent one that I helped produce, can be found at www.PaloPintoGold.com).

2. The vacation to Scandinavia constitutes the last break of any kind during my 10-month campaign. The next ninety-four days will have me campaigning full-time throughout the four counties which comprise District 73. You can expect updates far more frequently from now on.

The heat is on...

A DEAL YOU CAN'T PASS UP

As you must surely know, it takes money to run a successful political campaign. Now that we are less than 100 days away from the election I have decided to make a deal that no other politician can.

Beginning today, anyone who contributes $25.00 or more will receive as a special "Thank You" a DVD of my most recent feature-length motion picture -- PALO PINTO GOLD. This light-hearted Western stars Roy Clark and Mel Tillis. Among the cameos is none other than Kinky Friedman who portrays the Governor of Texas. How cool is that?

Donations can be made via PayPal or by check -- go to the "Contributions" page on my website at www.NeedToVent.com for more details. And to learn more about this film, I invite you to go to www.PaloPintoGold.com.

Who says they don't make Westerns like they used to?

A FELLOW LIBERTARIAN

Travis Irvine is the Libertarian Candidate for Ohio's 12th Congressional District. I met Travis a few months ago and was impressed with his commitment and, just as importantly, his wonderful sense of humor. Besides being a very dedicated candidate, Travis is also a talented filmmaker. Please take a minute or two to click on this link to watch three brief (less than one minute each) videos -- I am positive that you will enjoy them all.

Here's the link: http://irvineforcongress.com/index.php

Now that we are approximately 100 days away from November 2nd -- Election Day -- postings will be far more frequent, so please check back often. And if you have any spare time and are interested in helping me make history by becoming the first Libertarian to be elected to the Texas State Legislature, I invite you to give me a call at (210) 860-0110 -- or -- send me an e-mail at Robert@NeedToVote.com.

Hey -- how often can you actually help make history?

PERFECT TIMING

This Astronomical Clock is located in Rostock, Germany. It is the oldest witness of time in the world and it ticks in the Marien Kirche.

It goes without saying that this magnificent timepiece has seen a lot over the years. What it has never seen, however, is a Libertarian candidate elected to the Texas State Legislature. As you know, I fully intend to see that history is made. And what better time than right now, with the Lone Star State facing an $18 billion budget deficit.

It has been said that when it comes to fiscal responsibility, just one Libertarian among a governing board is akin to a designated driver in a roomful of drunks. I plan on being your "Designated Driver."

KINKY FRIEDMAN ENDORSEMENT

On Saturday, June 12, Kinky Friedman addressed the Texas Libertarian Party State Convention during a luncheon for all delegates and attendees. True to form, Mr. Friedman had some very amusing things to say about the Republican candidate for Governor, Rick Perry, as well as the Democrat candidate, Bill White.

"I really think the Democrats and the Republicans have become the same guy, admiring themselves in the mirror. Rick Perry and Bill White — it's like the lesser of two boll weevils. This is the classic choice between paper or plastic. I think the day has come for the Libertarians."

You have to love Kinky...

His final words, however, were the most meaningful for yours truly, "Where's Robert Nowotny?"

Upon standing up before the entire Convention, Kinky pointed to me and declared, "Robert is a good man. We Hill Country guys have to stick together. He is an excellent candidate and I support him."

Thank you Kinky -- your endorsement means a lot to me.

For anyone who questions my ability to win this election I refer again to Kinky: "Why the Hell not?"

Why the Hell not, indeed.

HISTORY IN THE MAKING?

The following article appeared in the June 9th edition of the Bulverde Standard, the Canyon Lake Week and the Comal County Beacon. It is written by Doug Kirk, the editor of these newspapers.


Will The Libertarian Party Make History In Our Backyard?

By Douglas Kirk

I don’t think there is any question that the voting public is upset and that in November we are going to see some remarkable changes in the way our government is run. Most people agree that it is time to take out the trash.

The Republicans handed the presidency to Obama after the tax and spend performance of their stint in power and Obama is going to hand it right back to the Republicans when the public realizes just how messed up he made an already messed up situation. Taxpayers are usually asleep, but not any more. They have awakened and they are pretty upset with just about everybody in office, no matter what the political stripe.

We were all told in grade school that American politics is a two party system. That turned out to be a lie. America does have two dominant parties and power has been handed back and forth between the Democrats and the Republicans so many times that it is getting harder and harder to tell the difference between them. When the Republicans can out-spend the Democrats, you know something is amiss. Yet, if you examine the facts, it seems like every new administration outspends the previous one, despite the party platform--some planks of which call for less spending.

A few years ago I met a guy by the name of Wes Benedict at an conference in Austin. Wes was then the Executive Director of the Texas Libertarian Party which he served between 2004 and 2008. I asked him why he was a Libertarian and he explained that for years he had been a Republican but then one day he realized that the Republican party no longer stood for less government and lower taxes. He went searching for a political party that believed in the constitution and in liberty and he found the Libertarian Party. “We are for smaller government and freedom on all issues,” he said on FOX’s Freedom Watch just this year.

Wes is now the Executive Director of the National Libertarian Committee after demonstrating his leadership in Texas. While he was in Austin he recruited record numbers of candidates and they received record numbers of votes at the ballot box. He said that every vote for a Libertarian is a vote for smaller government on all issues. One of the things he said when he was in Texas was that the Libertarian Party is the third largest party in America and that as more and more Americans realize that there is a viable alternative, they will be supporting more and more Libertarian candidates.


Right here in our own county we have a fascinating race brewing between Republican incumbent Doug Miller as District 73 State Representative and Libertarian challenger Robert Nowotny.

I know Representative Miller as the freshman Texas Legislator who tried to make a name for himself by pushing the Douglas Kirk Law. The bill did not pass, but Miller was actually hoping to help his buddies in New Braunfels by passing a law that was specifically written for me--according to what County Judge Danny Scheel told the media, including the Ft. Worth Star Telegram. The law was intended to stop me from using the Public Information Act to gather documents, to restrict my liberty and to cripple anyone who is trying to make their government transparent. Amazingly, that bill was carried forth by a Republican, the guy who was elected to office by a mere 38 vote margin in 2008 (against Nathan Macias, who had won his seat from Carter Casteel in 2006 with a 46 vote margin!)

If anybody wants to say that Miller has the election sewed up in November 2010, they obviously know nothing about politics.

The Libertarian candidate Nowotny could actually defeat Miller in what would be the upset of the century. Examine the facts:

Miller will spend a bunch of money as he has demonstrated his ability to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars from special interest groups. Miller, however, has alienated freedom-loving people within his four county district (Comal, Bandera, Gillespie and Kendall) with his anti-freedom stance on the Douglas Kirk Law.

Miller’s base is preciously small (a 38 vote margin is not a landslide) and probably getting smaller as voters get to know him. Miller did not even carry his home County of Comal when he ran against Macias.

Miller is, by trade, an insurance man.

Nowotny, on the other hand, just for starters, has a much more interesting background. He’s a film producer with a pile of awards, including such notables as a Primetime Emmy Award from the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, The Barbara Jordan Award For Excellence in Communication on Behalf of the Disabled, a CINE Golden Eagle, Wilbur Award (Best Religious Film Of The Year), Best American Film Of The Decade (The International Festival of the Arts--shared with SHINDLER'S LIST and GETTYSBURG) and others. As a film producer, Nowotny certainly knows how to raise money, since that is part of what producers do. And, for every dollar Miller raises, Nowotny will certainly match that with a more creative and clever way to get his message across--at less cost.

Nowotny is all about freedom, and while Miller was spending his time the last two years trying to shut liberty down, Nowotny was in nearby Boerne making a film and encouraging free expression. Born and raised in Comal County, a fifth generation local, Nowotny will likely do well in the same area Miller couldn’t even carry.

The real question then becomes, can a Libertarian actually beat a Republican?

The answer to that lies in two things. One, just what kind of Republican is State Representative Miller (and we know the answer to that by his effort to pass the Douglas Kirk Law) and two, are voters so mad at the “two party” political system that they will vote for someone in the third largest party? Nowotny is betting “yes” and is building a campaign designed to unseat Miller from the spot he barely took from Macias.

It’s pretty clear: A seat that unstable is up for grabs and any mistakes on the part of Miller (trying to pass a law to stop reporters from getting the facts about government shenanigans) could likely make the house of cards fall.

If Nowotny were a dummy maybe he couldn’t do it. But Libertarian Party nominee Nowotny has risen to the top of his profession, has run his own business the last 28 years, has an MA from the University of Texas and has campaigned publicly about lowering taxes and shrinking government.

Miller’s campaign speeches go like this: “Hi, there, it’s such a pleasure to serve you...”

He’s smooth, but, is there any substance?

So can Nowotny really win? People want to know if Comal County will make history in this race by electing the first Texas Representative who sports the (L) behind his name. Wes Benedict did the groundwork. He demonstrated that the party is growing, and that it is just a matter of time as the American people continue to get fed up with business as usual. So the ball has been tossed up near the net. Now all Nowotny has to do is jam it through the hoop and send Miller to the penalty box for ever considering something like the Douglas Kirk Law.

November is on the way, and Miller’s days as an elected official just might be numbered. Mark Nov. 2 as the day to take out the trash all across America.

END

TEXANS FOR ACCOUNTABLE GOVERNMENT

I am very pleased to announce that Texans for Accountable Government has formally endorsed my campaign for Texas State Representative, District 73.

As posted on this organization's website, "Texans for Accountable Government (TAG) is a non-partisan Political Action Committee headquartered in Central Texas. TAG was formed with the ambition of reining in the intrusive and expanding reach of government which threatens to invade every facet of our lives. Our ambition is to put the reins of government back into the hands of individual American citizens; allowing us to once again run our own lives.

TAG focuses on issues at the local, county, and state level. We believe in the principle of subsidiary; that power should be vested in the nearest locality. Our local representatives are much more accountable to us than are those over a thousand miles away in the District of Columbia.

We are dedicated to safeguarding individual liberty, protecting personal privacy and property rights, election integrity, safe water, and electing representatives, not bureaucrats, to office!"

When elected, I look forward to working closely with this group of highly dedicated, politically active and responsible individuals.

For more information about TAG, please go to their website: http://tagtexas.org

PROPOSED OUTER LOOP

As both a citizen of Comal County (born and raised) and as the Libertarian Candidate for Texas State Representative, District 73, I am emphatically against the proposed Outer Loop which is slated to cross the beautiful, pristine waters of River Road at the 2nd crossing. This massive six-lane expressway would decimate one of the Lone Star State's most beautiful recreational areas as well as undoubtedly contaminating the Edwards Aquifer.

I totally support the Guadalupe River Road Alliance (GRRA), an organization consisting of concerned residents, property and business owners, and Hill Country enthusiasts who believe our Texas Heritage and Natural Resources are in danger of being destroyed because of this developer driven plan. For more information regarding the GRRA, please go to their website at:

http://www.save-river-road.net



I also endorse the Citizens' Alliance for Smart Expansion (CASE), whose mission is "to preserve what is unique to our area, protect our quality of life and encourage responsible growth."

As a grassroots organization, CASE is "dedicated to educate the public and address New Braunfels area planning and growth issues by working with Government leaders for the betterment of the Community."

The website for CASE is: www.nbcase.org

Without doubt, viable alternatives to this proposed route need to be explored by citizens and experts alike who understand and appreciate the inherent beauty of this area, including its long-established economic value.

Both of these dedicated organizations deserve your support. Get involved -- contact GRRA and CASE today and help bring some sanity to this extremely important issue.

NEW T-SHIRT DESIGN

Step aside Giorgio Armani. You too, Louis Vitton. The same applies to Tommy Hilfiger.

Yes, folks, there is a new fashion designer in town (albeit New Braunfels, not Milan).

Yours truly has established another Libertarian Party first -- no Libertarian candidate has ever designed a T-Shirt for sale nationwide. Until now. And while this isn't exactly haute couture, this T-Shirt is a fun, fashionable fund raiser for my campaign.

Be among the first to step out in high style. Support a political party that stands for Lower Taxes. Smaller Government. More Freedom. And help support my drive to become the first Libertarian candidate elected to the Texas State Legislature!

To order, click on this link to LPStuff.com:

http://www.lpstuff.com/shop/index.php?_a=viewProd&productId=786

On April 25th I signed the "NO CLIMATE TAX PLEDGE" presented by Americans for Prosperity. This wonderful political group is the nation's premiere grassroots organization fighting for economic liberty and limited government. As you probably know, the United States Congress is debating the largest tax increase in history: "The Cap-And-Trade Energy Tax." Funny name -- "Cap-And-Trade" -- but what it entails isn't funny. Simply put, this is nothing more than a tax on coal, oil, and natural gas, but instead of being a specific tax rate, the total level of use of these energy sources is capped and companies are forced to pay the government for emissions permits. These companies will then bid against each other to stay in business, and nobody knows how much the tax will be until they hold the auctions and the ensuing permit trades are made. It's a crazy, unpredictable tax -- but it is certainly a tax that will be become a massive burden for all citizens of the United States as well as Texas.

While I readily admit that a Texas State Representative will not have much, if any, direct influence on this issue, I felt it was important to declare my position and to do so publicly. Here's the simple, one-sentence pledge:

"I, Robert A. Nowotny, pledge to the taxpayers of the State of Texas and to the American people that I will oppose any legislation relating to climate change that includes a net increase in government revenue."

For information regarding Americans for Prosperity, I invite you to take a look at their website: americansforprosperty.org

TEA PARTIES

A LONE RIDER MAKES HIS ENTRANCE TO THE TEA PARTY HELD IN BOERNE

(Photo by Doug Kirk)

On Saturday, April 24th, a series of Tea Parties were held in Comal County. The primary purpose was to discuss the proposed $75 million Justice Center. A wide variety of invited speakers were on hand to give their opinions regarding this topic as well as several others. I was honored to be one of the invited speakers and although I am running for Texas State Representative, District 73, I was advised that I would need to speak simply as a concerned citizen. Besides not being allowed to make any kind of campaign pitch, I was also asked to keep my remarks to under three minutes.

Some of you have asked what I said and what I thought about this experience. To that end I am posting below the text of my remarks made to those in attendance. As for my overall reaction to these events, let me simply say that I thought all of the speakers gave very thought-provoking and informative presentations. All-in-all, approximately 210 people attended the three Tea Parties which were held in Landa Park, Sattler and Bulverde. The weather was terrific and I would participate again if asked.


(Photo by Pat Friedrich)

Here's the text of my remarks:

"The first thing I want to do is thank those who succeeded in getting this issue before the voters. Had it not been for their dedication and effort, the single largest public works project in Comal County history would have gone forward under the shadow of darkness without voter approval. My sincere thanks go to Ken Valentine, Glen Peterson, Doug Kirk and everyone else who worked so hard and diligently to secure the required number of signatures to bring this issue before the voters.

As for why we are all here -- I simply ask that the County Commissioners and all those in favor of the new Justice Center stop and consider the current economic climate. Just about everyone I know is having financial difficulties to one degree or another and this is simply not the time to add to a family's financial burden. Instead, I personally think that it is time for one great big "TIME OUT" for all politicians to simply back off.

Yes -- I'm talking about a "TIME OUT." It works with unruly pre-school children when they get so caught up with an inappropriate behavior that they need a "transition" to help them go from a "bad" behavior to a "good' behavior. And it should work for unruly politicos as well. Without a shadow of a doubt I believe our elected officials could benefit by the same process -- in Washington, D. C., in Austin and in Comal County as well.

LET'S CALL A SIMPLE "TIME OUT" -- no comprehensive health care, no comprehensive immigration, no onerous cap and trade policies, no Trans-Texas Corridor, no tolling of existing, publicly funded roadways, no additional spending that isn't 100% absolutely necessary.

And NO Justice Center. At least not now.

For me, the message to the County Commissioners and the supporters of this onerous financial burden is best stated by the Rolling Stones --- "You Can't Always Get What You Want!"



(Photo by Doug Kirk)

I'm sure there will be more Tea Parties scheduled in the months ahead. Based on my experience this past Saturday, I would encourage everyone reading this to attend a Tea Party at some time in the future. While I certainly do not agree with all of the points of view expressed at these gatherings, I still believe it is worthwhile to get involved and to listen to your fellow citizens and not just what is being said on radio and TV and in the newspapers.

LAURA ANN VALLE

I am extremely pleased to announce that Laura Ann Valle has agreed to become my Campaign Manager. Securing Laura's services is a major step in helping guide my campaign efforts between now and November 2nd. With her unbridled enthusiasm, her dedication and her demonstrated ability to "think outside the box" I am confident that, together, we will surprise everyone who is following the political race for Texas State Representative, District 73.

Of course, a reasonable question to ask is why she decided to do this. Here's what Laura says:

"I'm a working single mom and I've lived my whole life here in south central Texas. I am so fed up and tired of the 'politics as usual' mess going on in this country today. I decided in the last few months that I wanted to get actively involved in making a change. As the Libertarians say, "If you want to change the law, change the lawmakers". After meeting Robert I truly feel that he would make an excellent State Representative in the Texas Legislature. I'm so excited about meeting someone who has the will and the drive to truly make a difference, so I'm putting all my support behind him, including helping him coordinate his campaign. I believe in him and the kinds of changes he will push for and I am proud to have this opportunity to work with him and to support him in his efforts."

Welcome aboard, Laura. Let's start having some fun...

WHY LIBERTARIAN? "I'm Mad As Hell"

"I'm mad as Hell...and I bet you are, too!"
(Robert A. Nowotny)





"When the government's boot is on your throat, whether it is the left boot or the right boot is of no consequence."
(Gary Lloyd)

WHY LIBERTARIAN? "Change You Can Keep In Your Pocket"

"In general, the art of government consists in taking as much money as possible from one party of the citizens to give it to the other."
(Voltaire)





"Electing just one Libertarian to a governing board comprised of 'Tax and Spend Democrats' and 'Borrow and Spend Republicans' is akin to having a designated driver in a roomful of drunks."
(Doug Klippel)

WHY LIBERTARIAN? "Dirty Diapers"

"Politicians, like diapers, have to be changed frequently -- and for the same reason."

(Anonymous)





(Any resemblance to a Texas politician, living or dead, is purely coincidental)

TWEEDLEDUM/TWEEDLEDEE

WHY VOTE LIBERTARIAN? HERE'S REASON #27


"Our democracy is but a name. We vote. What does it mean? It means that we choose between two bodies of real, though not avowed, autocrats. We choose between Tweedledum and Tweedledee."

(Helen Keller)

A LETTER WORTH READING...

(It's only money...)


Dear Robert and Lynda,

First, thank you for the kind words! This cranky old schoolteacher is more often the target of the other kind.

Second, some news. State competition was last week. We took home two golds and three silvers. I have great kids (most of them) and they are national contenders, especially in audio production.

Third, some musings...

Last week, the American People took a beating but the bruises won’t show for years. It is hard to imagine the abject cowardice of a Congress which passed an obscenely expensive bill which will not take effect until the majority of those who voted it in are safely out of office or the public has forgotten who voted for what. It is incomprehensible to reconcile the urgency of a president who berated us that we must do this now! This is our last chance! with a bill which comes into effect over a decade, not a day.

I want better health care, more widely accessible health care. I am ashamed that the richest nation on the planet ranks somewhere between 28th and 32nd in infant survivability, behind such nations as Portugal and Poland. I was outraged when my insurance company tried to avoid covering my cancer treatment because the cancer was so advanced it must have been there before my college adopted them as a carrier. I would like my insurance to be portable when I move. Does it take three thousand pages to fix that?

How dare they say they will add a population equal to that of California to the insurance pool at public expense and save money in the process! Therein lays the dirty little secret! It took three thousand pages of gov-speak smoke screen to mask how this bill will be funded. Oh, the CBO didn’t actually lie; they did come clever counting to be sure, but did not lie (sort of …). There is an old saying in Washington. “If you add it up and you don’t like the numbers, change the way you count.”

First, they will “clean up the fraud waste and abuse in Medicare.” One is led to ask why that wasn’t done before and without this bill. Or, in fact, are they going to slash what Medicare covers by determining what care is appropriate and which is wasteful? Aha! That will save money. It will also place the federal government between my doctor and the care he or she prescribes for me. But health care will not be rationed. Just ask them.

Then they will cover millions more under Medicaid! Well, that won’t cost the Fed anything. The Federal deficit will not be affected! Instead, already financially strapped states will be hit by a massive surge in Medicaid costs mandated from but not funded by Capitol Hill. Federal taxes won’t climb but States will be forced to raise funds, therefore increase taxes. Is that passing the buck, dodging the bullet or dirty pool? Does it have a name other than reprehensible?

Then, conveniently after the midterm elections, Medicare taxes will climb. Every working man and woman will see their take-home pay shrink. How big is the bill you and I will pay? According to the most optimistic projections out there, the aggregate cost for the first decade (during which no appreciable changes come for the first four or more years!) is approximately $932 billion. During this time, the bill will supposedly reduce the federal deficit by $140 billion.

Some will ask when was the last time a federal program came in on or under budget and when was the last time the deficit was actually reduced, but even without that, the bill is astronomical. As in your comment about the lesser of two evils, a reduced deficit is still a deficit. How about reducing spending? How about stimulating this mummified economy by reducing taxes thus stimulating general consumption? How about, God save us, reducing the national debt?

How’s this for a contradiction? After decades of encouraging seniors, especially, to increase the depth of their coverage through Medicare Advantage and other supplemental insurance, let’s call that a Cadillac plan and add a surcharge! Let us penalize people for getting their own damn insurance! And let’s eliminate the tax break which encourages companies to help insure their retirees! That’ll work! Ask AT&T, Caterpillar or Deere! Let’s reduce the cost of medical care by levying new (and high) taxes on medical equipment from wheelchairs to linear accelerators! We’ve sold the American people reverse math before; this should be easy!

Last, immigration legislation is pending. May God help us and our children if we legalize the fourteen or so million illegal immigrants in this country, thus adding another enormous drain on the health care system at public expense. Oh, it will add to the roles of the Obamacrats if they vote. We won’t fund health care for illegal aliens, he says. We’ll just make them legal! So there!

Clearly, it is the sense of the current regime in Washington that we the people are incapable of caring for ourselves, even so far as choosing our own insurance. It is the frighteningly apparent trend to peel any vestige of authority from the several states and usurp a greater authority in Washington. “Specified powers” be damned, they say. What has become of us? It is a true Obama-nation …

I still consider myself a liberal. However, I will not allow my name to be spoken in the same sentence as the word “democrat” after the sleazy back-room treachery of the last few months. I remember when “government” was the result of a process, not a remote, voracious entity seemingly in opposition to the People.

Robert, please take back a little of what we have lost. Fight! Vigorously! Even if you do not win this time, you will not have lost if you inspire a few voters to pay attention. If your opponents must modify one plank in their platform because of you, it is better than it would have been. Please.

Sorry. I got wordy. I love my country. I want it back.

MICHAEL FAGAN

(Major Michael Fagan was a rescue helicopter pilot in Vietnam with 301 combat missions and 28 combat saves. In addition, Major Fagan served as a helicopter operations officer in Cambodia during the evacuation of Phnom Penh. He currently serves as Head of the Electronic Media Production Department at Ozarks Technical Community College in Missouri)

ENDORSEMENTS

TEXAS MONTHLY -- Bucket List Issue

63 things all Texans should do before they die, including...

# 27 ------ VOTE FOR ROBERT A. NOWOTNY!


"Simply put, if you think politics is a load of hogwash, and most politicians are lying, greedy, arrogant simpletons keen on starting wars and running up astronomical national deficits, then go vote for Robert and the Libertarians for a change. If you think I'm wrong, vote for those other clowns. Me? I'm voting for Robert. What he says makes sense. Even if he is from Texas."

------ Rodney Twelftree


"The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. Voting for the same Republican, in this case a RINO (Republican In Name Only) Republican, or another Democrat like the ones that are trying to insert a socialized medicine suppository into every American, is the same insanity. I have known Robert Nowotny for 40 years and he is the new, intelligent type representative that Texas needs to prevent giving our roads to foreign entities, to charge tolls on the roads we already paid for completely, or taking more land from Texans for a highway corridor that nobody wants. Vote for Robert or bend over and get more of the same!"

------ Jim Hanley





WHAT ABOUT BOB?
Sure, folks, the country is going down the proverbial tubes (and fast!).
But, WHAT ABOUT BOB?
You think you have no voice and no choice.
But, WHAT ABOUT BOB?
Republicans, Democrats, they're all about staying in office, not representing you!
But, WHAT ABOUT BOB?

------ Maura Murto






"Bob Nowotny probably doesn't have what it takes to be a successful politician. He's honest, straight-talking, clear-headed and profoundly competent. Yet, even with these strikes against him, I still support him enthusiastically!"

------ Bryce Zabel


So much tequila, so little time...

"Bob is a trustworthy, straight shooter who is honest to a fault and unafraid to criticize, challenge, and attempt to change the wrongs he sees. It makes him an annoying pain in the ass as a drinking buddy, but it seems these would be fine qualities for a politician...Eh, maybe not."

------ Darren Lohr, Screenwriter


"Really enjoyed the film clip.......great bit. Then again, I was already under the impression that most of the developed world was talking about your candidacy."

------ Hal Callaway



"Washington is broken. That's a widely accepted opinion. That's also Rick Perry's main message during his recent Primary campaign. Perry's vision is apparently hampered by all the Brylcreem, because Austin isn't that different from DC. Both Capitols are bogged down with politicians that worry more about their re-electability than important legislation that they never address. One thing both are very good at is spending our money like there's no tomorrow. Well, there is a tomorrow, regardless of the fact that the Mayan Calendar maker finally got tired and stopped at 2012. And our grandchildren and their children will be paying off this massive debt they are accruing. Spending in Texas is out of control, the stimulus check just covered the first deficit.

Austin can't seem to deal with the major issues facing the State. Okay, they picked some history books. They had trouble with that, too. School funding, too hard. Even DC didn't have "Killer B's", elected representatives that snuck out in the middle of the night like brat teenagers because a vote was not going to go their way. So instead of doing what the voters of Texas put them in office to do, they escaped and stopped the Legislature from acting...again. Most Democrats thought it was cute. I call it dereliction of duty. In Washington, it's the Republicans blocking everything, but at least they're staying at their posts.

It's all symptomatic of the broken, two-party system. It also illustrates how stuffy, obstinate, and unimaginative our current elected representatives are. With either of the two parties in power, you get the majority's rhetoric, the minority party's displeasure, and nothing of importance seems to move through. The legislature is like a big intestinal tract, and the two party's are diverticulitis, slowing the movement through the process.

That's why we need some people like Robert Nowotny, a third-party candidate, running as a Libertarian. We need Robert to be our Representative, a third-party laxative as it were. Somebody new. Somebody with a sense of humor that can deal with the stuffed shirts and hair cream we have now. A creative thinker -- we don't seem to have any of those now. That would be different. Robert Nowotny is a creative thinker, he started making movies in high school. We need Robert Nowotny because he isn't part of the problem. Problems don't get fixed throwing the same ingredients back every election. They'll only be fixed when you throw a solution. That's why I endorse Robert Nowotny for State Representative.

Let's fix Austin. Send someone intelligent to Austin. Send Robert Nowotny."

------ Pete Hanley

1st Television Campaign Ad

As most of you know, I have promised to pursue my campaign with conviction and, where appropriate, with humor. It is with this second goal in mind that I present a preview of my first potential campaign ad.

Did you know that the entire world is rooting for me to win this election?

It's true. (Sort of...)

If you don't believe me, take a look at this video -- it may take a little time to download, but I think you will find it worthwhile.

(And yes, this is way over the top -- but it is fun)

Here's a link the the proposed television ad. Just cut and paste, sit back and enjoy...

http://en.tackfilm.se/?id=1269180363646RA72

BORDER SECURITY

There is no doubt that Border Security and Illegal Immigration are extremely important issues. I have spoken to a number of experts on this topic, including H. Joaquin Jackson, perhaps the best-known living Texas Ranger whose extremely popular books include ONE RANGER, A MEMOIR and ONE RANGER RETURNS. Here's what I have learned:

1. We can't let "Ivory Tower Politicians" in Austin and Washington dictate policy and procedures. They no more understand the complexity of Border Security or Illegal Immigration than they understand the BCS System. What we need to do is to listen to those on the border, those involved with the existing situation on a daily basis, and pay heed to their first-hand experience and expertise.

2. The much-ballyhooed "Fence" is not the answer. Other than providing some curtailment benefit along the border at large metropolitan areas, the fence has been repeatedly crossed over, under and around. Yes, I said around, because large, permanent gaps exist thanks to the successful legal wrangling of powerful land owners who basically received a "not-in-my-back-yard" exemption.

3. There is no need for new laws or legislation -- the existing immigration laws on the books are more than adequate if, and here's the big "if," they are applied consistently and uniformly.

4. Finally, the so-called "virtual fence" is also a boondoggle. There is simply no substitute for manpower on the ground -- never has been and probably never will be.


Regarding "manpower on the ground," here's an interesting perspective that no one has publicly authored until now. I have posted this point of view more for the sake of discussion than as an official proposal. Then again, there is some merit as you will see...

Let me begin by stating that the United States currently has active military forces in over 135 countries. Among these are Barbados, Fiji, Ireland, Jamaica, Sweden, even Switzerland. This is insane.

Now, for the sake of argument, consider these three countries -- Germany (56,222 American troops), Japan (33,122 American troops) and Italy (9,700 American troops). In the case of Japan, we have served almost exclusively as their primary military force -- Army, Navy and Air Force -- since the end of World War II. This, of course, is at the expense of the American tax payer who, based on most criteria, actually has a lower standard of living than his Japanese counterpart.

Given the above statistics, these three countries, alone, account for 99,044 United States military personnel -- enough to station a guard every 100 yards along the entire US/Mexican border, from the Pacific Ocean to the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. Yes, one guard every 100 yards deployed for eight hours per shift. What a concept -- American military troops protecting the American Border!

If nothing else, this is interesting food for thought...

...and speaking of food, the only negative to this idea is that our courageous men and women in the military may find it harder to find good schnitzel, sushi or scarafiuni.

(A special "thank you" to Hal Callaway who originated this concept.)

LOWERING TAXES

I learned a long time ago that "Nothing is ever easy." At least when it comes to accomplishing significant goals, be it in business or sports or, especially, politics. So when I declare that I will fight to lower taxes extensively, the first question that should come to mind is just how do I plan to accomplish this?

The answer: Lower the size of the Texas State Budget by aggressively utilizing the power and scope of the Sunset Act.

In 1977, the Sunset Act established a process to regularly evaluate approximately 150 Texas state agencies and to assess whether their missions were still needed as well as to evaluate the efficiency of their operations. Under the process, each agency must perform for the Sunset Commission a self-review of its roles and responsibilities, including areas in which its duties may overlap those of other agencies and the effect of the agency's abolition on loss of federal funding. Every agency, no matter how big or important, must succumb to this review by an independent body made up of professional staff, attorneys and representatives of the Texas Senate, House and the public.

Since its inception, 58 agencies have been abolished and another 12 agencies have been consolidated. The fiscal impact of Sunset recommendations over time can be estimated through fiscal note data. Bureaucracies such as the Poultry Improvement Board and the Texas Indian Commission have ceased to exist while the Occupational Therapy and the Physical Therapy Boards were combined. Estimates from reviews conducted between 1982 and 2009 indicate a potential 27-year revenue savings of approximately $783.7 million, compared with expenditures of $28.6 million for the Sunset Commission. Based on these estimates, for every dollar spent on the Sunset process, the State has received $27 in return.

Currently this review process is scheduled once every twelve years. I propose changing this to once every six years. In addition, I will seek a 2/3 vote of each House of the Legislature for an agency to be renewed. These changes in the Sunset Act are designed to speed up the transfer to the private sector of well-meant programs that have not proven themselves and, just as importantly, to help facilitate the elimination of those designed to favor special interests. Pruning State agencies that don't work well will enable us to lower State taxes while still ensuring that the basic needs of all Texans are met.

Back in 1928, Herbert Hoover's campaign used what has become over the years a very famous quote -- but you can rest assured that a Poultry Improvement Board is not needed to provide "A chicken in every pot."

(In the days ahead there will be additional postings related to how we can lower taxes in Texas. Be sure to check back often.)

Government is the last resort.

HONOR IN OFFICE ACT

FINALLY, something liberals and conservatives can both agree on:

As long as legislators make deals behind closed doors, as long as legislators can pass laws without having read and understood them, and as long as legislators can vote on laws without providing advance notice to the citizens, the State of Texas and our nation will always be in jeopardy and subject to political whims, pressures and special interests, rather than to the citizens.

Transparency is key to having honest government of, by and for the people.

It is for this reason that I fully support the HONOR IN OFFICE ACT which requires each member of the legislative assembly who intends to vote in favor of a bill to first execute a written statement in the following language and form:

"I hereby certify under penalty of perjury that I, personally, have read (INSERT BILL NUMBER) in its entirety, and that I have taken the steps to understand the entire contents of this bill and its ramifications to the best of my ability."


With this in mind, I intend to write and sponsor an Amendment to the Constitution of the State of Texas which will read as follows:


CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT
FULL TEXT OF THE MEASURE -----

BE IT ENACTED BY THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:

Honor In Office --- Reading the bill - Transparency and accountability - Citizen input on final version of bills.

1. In order to give citizens the time to provide thoughtful input which legislators then have an opportunity to review before their vote, and to also afford legislators the time to read and understand the final version of the bill, no vote to pass or defeat a bill shall occur in either the House or the Senate until five days (including weekends and holidays) after the absolute entirety of the final version of the bill has been posted in a publicly accessible fashion, on the Internet, continuously, up through the point the vote is completed. Any alterations, revisions, additions or deletions to the bill during this five day public review period will require a reposting and restart of the review period. This requirement shall not apply to dire emergencies involving state security or natural catastrophes for which immediate action is necessary to prevent further loss of life.

2. No member of the legislative assembly shall vote in favor of the passage of any bill by either house unless such member certifies that he or she has fully read and understands the contents of such bill. Prior to voting in favor of the passage of any bill, each member of the legislative assembly who intends to vote in favor of such bill shall execute a written statement in the following language and form:

"I hereby certify under penalty of perjury that I, personally, have read [INSERT BILL NUMBER] in its entirety, and that I have taken the steps to understand the entire contents of this bill and its ramifications to the best of my ability."

A vote in favor of the passage of a bill shall not be counted unless it is determined that the member casting such vote has executed this writing.

TAXPAYER PROTECTION PLEDGE

The Taxpayer Protection Pledge is considered to be the single-most important step a political candidate can make to demonstrate his or her commitment to the principles of fiscal responsibility. My solemn pledge to "oppose and vote against any and all efforts to increase taxes" is now on file with the Americans for Tax Reform headquarters in Washington, D.C. It should be noted that there are no exceptions to the Pledge.

None.

Let me reiterate -- there are no exceptions.

Tax-and-spend politicians often use "emergencies" to justify increasing taxes. In the unfortunate event of a real crises or natural disaster, I believe the legislature should cut spending in other areas instead of initiating a new tax burden which, once enacted, almost never goes away.

For more information regarding the Taxpayer Protection Pledge and Americans for Tax Reform, please go to www.atr.org.

Vote NO! on tax increases.

Vote NO(wotny)!

Robert Nowotny
Libertarian Candidate
Texas State Representative, District 73

ENCOURAGEMENT

My candidacy for State Representative, District 73 is only a few weeks old and already I have received tremendous encouragement from a wide variety of individuals. Perhaps none, however, were as moving as that received from Major Michael Fagan, a rescue helicopter pilot in Vietnam with 301 combat missions and 28 combat saves. In addition, Major Fagan served as a helicopter operations officer in Cambodia during the evacuation of Phnom Penh.


With Michael's permission, I am posting below what he wrote:

"Are you crazy? Hell yes! You are totally mad! Mad as hell, I think you said. You are as crazy as those idiots who stood by a bridge in Concord on April 19, 1775, in the insane belief that they could form a government which represented the People. You are as nuts as that black woman who wouldn't sit in the back of the bus. You are as far off the wall as the millions of us who fought and bled in wars with which we didn't necessarily agree with to preserve a system -- a culture -- a way of life in which we had a choice and a future.

I was strong among those who wanted change. What I got is not the change I bargained for. Yes, I support your insanity because it parallels my own. I have my own pet issues but they are like yours. I do not live in Texas (at this time!) but I am behind every warm blooded American who wants to take back our Constitution and Bill of Rights -- and among those rights is the freedom to keep the bulk of what I earn and spend it wherever the hell I want! Industry and business make a strong economy, not big government. Redistribution of wealth eliminates real wealth and thus the ability to hire, innovate, grow and make others wealthy. The current occupants of the big chairs need a refresher course in history and economics.

Go for the gold! The politics of Texas won't be totally real to me until I retire and move back to my adopted home but every assault upon the current utterly unsustainable economic policy and totally unacceptable deterioration of our fundamental hard won freedoms demands my support -- at any level in any place.

I don't have much. They don't pay schoolteachers very well in Missouri either. But, give me an address and maybe I can find a few bucks to contribute to reclaiming a little of what I fought for for twenty years."


Thank you Michael. Thank you very much.

SAINT JUDE

I am very excited to announce that my campaign as the Libertarian candidate to be your Representative in the Texas Legislature has its first unconditional supporter -- Saint Jude.

Yes, the "Patron Saint of Lost Causes" has come on board to help with what many believe will be an impossible task -- defeating my worthy and extremely well-connected Republican opponent. But there is precedent -- for example, the U.S. hockey team did upset the mighty Russians during the 1980 Winter Olympics when Al Michaels famously asked at the time, "Do you believe in miracles?"

With the help of Saint Jude the answer here at Campaign Headquarters is a resounding "YES!"

Let the fun begin...