The Heartland Libertarian Conference is now a few days behind us and I’m finally getting caught up on my sleep. I can say without reservation that the event was a success!

Now that the event is over, I’d like to share a few observations from the perspective I was fortunate enough to have as the conference organizer.

Friday night was hectic. You expect that with any event; there are always last minute details to attend to, volunteers to assign stations and questions from attendees. Friday became more hectic because the D.C. press was in full search mode due to the rumors that former Congressman Bob Barr would announce his candidacy for President during his keynote speech.  My phone was ringing constantly...CNN, the political magazines,  radio stations...you name it, they were calling.

Based on what the reporters, producers and assignment editors were telling us, we were expecting a full media row in the meeting hall on Saturday.

David White and I managed to get three interviews with Libertarian Presidential candidates before the conference got started. I interviewed Oregon busisnessman Michael Jingozian, the CEO of AngelVision Technologies and the founder of Reset America. I also spoke with author Christine Smith of Colorado and former U.S. Senator Mike Gravel of Virginia (he represented Alaska when in the Senate).

The other candidates arrived too late for us to get interviews, unfortunately.

Friday night, I had the pleasure of presenting awards to two of my friends at our networking dinner. Last year, the Libertarian Coalition for Responsibility presented me with an achievment award and this year, I was asked to bestow the awards on behalf of the group. The LCR is a group set up to recognize those who don’t just talk about principles and values;  they live them in their personal and business lives.

The first award went to Springfield City Councilman Doug Burlison. Doug has a passion for his community and, more importantly, his family. While we all do, Doug’s family has a special meaning. When he and Mellony married, Doug assumed responsibility for several children and chose to provide them with a full time father. 

More recently, he found himself - through no fault of his own - in a difficult family situation that could have wrecked both his family life and his political career. 

Doug, with the class I’ve learned to expect in him, hit the controversy head-on. He laid his cards on the table for the world to see and circled the wagons around his family. The easy thing to do would have been to point his finger at the person and companies at the center of the problem, tell the public (including those who elected him) that it’s none of their business and walk away. Doug took the more difficult path, lived up to the responsibility of being in the public eye and opened himself up to scrutiny even though he, individually, was not at fault.

In a world that continues to promote a mindset of victimhood and helplessness, Doug Burlison is a prime example of how family, community and challenges should be viewed. 

The other award winner was my partner in crime in organizing the conference. Kansas Libertarian Party Chair Rob Hodgkinson and I worked together to make the Heartland event happen.  

In addition to being the Chairman of the Kansas LP, Rob is the coowner  of a small business in Lenexa and now he’s a candidate for the Kansas State Senate. Why does he take on all these responsibilities?

Because he won’t ask anything of others that he is not willing to do himself. Rob understands that his position is more than just a title. It is a requirement to be an example to others both in his organization and out.

Both Doug and Rob are richly deserving of recognition. I appreciate the LCR’s allowing me to make the presentations.

Saturday was the big day. We split the conference up in four sessions: two in the morning and two in the afternoon, followed by the state committee meetings of the Missouri and Kansas Libertarian Parties. For those from other states, my friend Michael Badnarik (2004 LP nominee for President) gave a presentation on the Bill of Rights.

Honestly, I missed the first session. I’m told it went very well. I was busy greeting guests, media and speakers who were arriving. I was also tending to a variety of logistical concerns that are typical of an event this size.

The second session of the morning was the Presidential candidates’ debate, which I produced and moderated.  I met with all the candidates beforehand to reveiw the format and set expectations for them and for me. I can’t imagine the Republicans or Democrats having all the competitors in the same room together before a major debate - that’s what their "people" are for: to negotiate and bargain for any advantage that can be won.

This group of candidates, while competitors, understood the need to make this debate successful and treated the event, me and each other with the utmost respect. There were even a few times where I caught a candidate being (gasp!) helplful to a rival. Imagine that!

The debate went very well. So far, the feedback has been almost completely positive, for which I am relieved and grateful. The candidates were careful to abide by the time limits and engaged in a civil, robust and intellectually stimulating debate.

I had a great perspective from the podium on the stage. I could see not only the candidates; I had a view of every face in the audience. Those in attendance were focused on every answer and statement made by each candidate during the hour and 15 minute long debate. That’s a tribute to the candidates and to the sincerity of the audience.

The debate was broadcast live on two local radio stations, simulcast online on multiple outlets and recorded for later broadcast (see http://www.lpmo.org/heartland2008 to watch the debate in full).

Now that I’m no longer in the moderator’s role that requires objectivity, here are my observations and thoughts on the candidates.

Dr. George Phillies of Massachusettes (www.phillies2008.com):

Among the most highly formally educated people you will meet. He is methodical and prefers speaking in terms of concepts and philosophy. On most social concerns, he is very much on the so-called left. He is a long-time Libertarian  activist and a former candidate for Congress. He is a teaching professor of science at the university level and an author. 

Dr. Phillies’ animosity toward religion in general and his contempt for people of faith is obvious. Through his press releases and statements on the debate stage, he makes it clear that he has little respect for those, especially Christians, who live by faith primarily. I cannot and will not support Dr. Phillies bid for the LP nomination and, should he become the nominee, will not support him in November.

I don’t believe that Dr. Phillies will be a contender in the final rounds of voting at the nominating convention next month, anyway. He simply turns off far more people than he attracts.

Phillies is campainging extensively, has a structure and staff and is putting his own money in the campaign, which is an example I hope current and future LP candidates follow. His presence in the campaign is beneficial in that regard.

Wayne Allyn Root of Nevada (www.rootforamerica.com):

Mr. Root is an entrepreneur from Las Vegas. He’s also an author and often a motivational speaker for different groups and conventions. He displays some of the best communication skills I have seen in a while. 

Some in the LP dislike Wayne for his polished speaking style, center-right approach to the issues and salesmanship. Others like him for those very reasons. He is an excellent marketer (he IS from Vegas, after all...) and has harnessed that ability to gain unprecedented exposure for him and his campaign on mainstream media outlets throughout the country.

Through my many conversations with him, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by what I’ve learned of Wayne Allyn Root. If you stop at the surface because you don’t like the polished approach to campaigning (and, for whatever reason, some Libertarians don’t), here’s what you do not see: an Ivy League-educated businessman with a deep understanding of the issues, how they affect Americans and with credible solutions.

I’m impressed with Wayne. During the debate, he differentiated himself from his competitors and focused on offering solutions to the issues I asked the candidates about. In my opinion, Wayne Allyn Root gave the strongest performance of the debate.

If nominated, Root would be an effective representative of the LP. While the left side of the party tries to discount Root because of mainstream appeal and marketing skill, Wayne Allyn Root is a serious, capable candidate. If Barr is nominated, Root may be an ideal fit for the Vice Presidential nominee.

Could "Mayor Root" be a common phrase in Las Vegas in the future? Don’t bet against it.

Michael Jingozian of Oregon (www.resetamerica.com):

Jingozian surprised me. I’ll admit: I was not sure about including him in a debate reserved for top-tier candidates for the LP nomination. I’m glad I did as he far exceeded my expectations at the conference. I was wrong to question his ability and legitimacy as a candidate for the LP Presidential nomination.

Michael doesn’t deliver his public speaking with the emotion of a Root or Christine Smith. He’s more low-key and sticks to an approach that makes you feel that is he talking directly to you, in your living room, about your concerns.

Once we got into economic and business issues, Michael Jingozian clearly showed why he enjoys the business success he’s built thus far: critical thinking skills and the tendency to zero in on the cause of a problem.

His credentials include building and being the CEO of AngelVision Technologies, listed by Inc.  magazine as one of America’s fastest  growing companies. He’s also founded Reset America which works to reach out to independent, third party and disenchanted voters in hopes of engaging them in the political process.  

During the debate and in my interview with him, Jingozian demonstrated quick, thinking and a solid grasp of the issues we all face today.

I’m not convinced Jingozian is going to get to the nomination, or even get to the final round of balloting this year. I hope the people of Oregon watch Michael Jingozian and his campaign closely, despite that possibility. He has what it takes to be a major player in a future race for Governor in that state. I have no doubt that he would be an excellent pick to lead his home state.

Keep your eye on Michael Jingozian - I  think he’ll be back and will be a top-level contender for the LP Presidential nomination in the future. I look forward to watching his political career and impact progress over the next several years.

Christine Smith of Colorado (www.libertarianforpresident.com):

Christine displays endless energey and passion both on stage and in person. Conventional political wisdom says she does not have the experience and resume to keep up with the other candidates. Conventional wisdom says she is in over her head in a situation where she has to go head-to-head with the other contenders for the nomination.

Conventional wisdom is wrong in this case.

Ms. Smith delivered a solid debate performance on Saturday, holding her own against better-known candidates. Christine takes the uncompromising and unapologetic approach - the approach that says "we’re right, what you’ve been told is wrong and it’s time to change your thinking!". Her line in the debate that captured the overall approach was "Americans, awake!’.

That appeals to many in the LP. It’s not always the best way to get the general public to vote for you, though. That approach can make people uncomfortable - which is fine in an academic setting, in a religious setting or over coffee with someone you respect. In a campaign, it’s more about winning votes. You generally aren’t going to beat someone into supporting you.

During a pre-nomination debate, this style can be very effective and will rightfully win respect for her as an activist and spokesperson for libertarian viewpoints for someone who has shown she’s not afraid of challenging people. Those in the party who dismiss Smith as a lightweight do so prematurely. She has unlimited potential in the party and in general.

Christine Smith will likely not get very far during the nominating process at the national convention in Denver. She may not get past the first or second round of voting but my hope is that does not discourage her or dampen her enthusiasm.

Smith could make a good Vice Presidential nominee to be on the team with a left-leaning Libertarian, should Mike Gravel win the nomination, because she is so aggressive. Her lack of political and business experience may make that unlikely this year.

Regardless of what happens in Denver - I sincerely hope Christine Smith gets back on the campaign trail soon after the convention. She is an ideal pick to be a Libertarian candiate for Congress. I would love to see what she could accomplish in a setting where she is able to visit voters, community groups and media outlets over and over.

Dr. Mary Ruwart of Texas  (www.votemary2008.com):  

Dr. Ruwart is deservedly beloved in the Libertarian Party. Over the years, she has proven to be part of the very fabric of Libertarian Party history. She is a prolific writer and speaker with impressive academic and business qualifications.

I look forward to visiting with Dr. Ruwart every chance I get. I’ve had a number of discussions with her over the last few years and learn something new with each one.

Her soft-spoken demeanor belies her intense dedication to winning people over to the libertarian viewpoint and to her mental focus. Where Wayne Allyn Root delivers passion, and Christine Smith delivers a challenge, Dr. Ruwart delivers a cool, calming cerebral appeal.

In reality, her positions and views could be considered radical by the mainstream. Her delivery, credentials and experience, though, encourage the listener to...well...listen. In addition to appealing to all "factions" of the LP, Dr. Ruwart has the ability to appeal to most people in general because she transcends political labels.

I think she jumped into the LP Presidential race a little too late to build the momentum to win this year. Regardless of whom the party nominates for President if she does not win, Dr, Mary Ruwart would be an effective Vice Presidential nominee.

Either way, the Libertarian Party is fortunate to have Dr. Ruwart in our ranks.

Sen. Mike Gravel of Virginia (www.gravel2008.us):

Mike Gravel started working in politics when he was 15 years old. He is 77 now and was a Democrat that entire time up until a few weeks ago when he joined the Libertarian Party.

Gravel served the State of Alaska in the US Senate from 1969 to 1981. Before that, he was in the Alaska Legislature and was Speaker of the State House for one term.

Senator, Legislator, Speaker...maverick. In the 1960’s and 1970’s, he challenged his own party about the Vietnam War. Later, he challenged both parties and became one of the key reasons we no longer have an active military draft in the United States. Mike Gravel does not mind going against the current, political or otherwise.

The former Senator does not agree with the Libertarian platform in some areas. While it is not unusual for someone to disagree with their party on a couple of issues (I know I do), Gravel differs on key issues like the role of government in health care and on international perspectives like the United Nations.

Senator Gravel has a unique talent for focusing on common ground and he is almost unbelievably charming. Regardless of whether or not you agree with Gravel on the issues, once you meet him you cannot help but appreciate his sincerity and intellect.

I wish I had more time to visit with him and hope to converse with him in the weeks, months and years to come.

During the debate, Gravel delivered direct answers even when he knew he was giving an opinion that does not toe the party line. He has a presence about him that demands respect, even if he personally would rather earn it.

Gravel is a contender for the Libertarian Party Presidential nomination, especially if Bob Barr and Wayne Allyn Root divide the center-right and pragmatic vote during second, third or maybe even fourth rounds of voting in Denver. He’s not what I would guess is the "frontrunner" now, but he’s not out of the race. Either way, he is an asset to the LP,  as all the candidates in the debate are in their own way.

Back to the conference.

After lunch, the conference reconvened with a panel discussion of LP members who are elected to office, moderated by Lloyd Sloan from St. Louis. St.  Joseph, Missouri City Councilman Mike Bozarth, Springfield, Missouri City Councilman Doug Burlison and Salina, Kansas Board of Education member Mike Wilson. Like the first morning session, I missed the first afternoon session.

Right after that the LP National Chairman, Bill Redpath, gave an informative and encouraging state-of-the-party speech. He took questions from the audience and reiterated our connfidence in the direction the party is headed.

After that, my good friend Bob Sullentrup took the stage. In addition to being the LP National Secretary, he is the founder of Rock the Debates (www.rockthedebates.org), a group that is working to open the Presidential debates up to more than just the two major parties. It’s as if Bob believes the public deserves to hear from more than just two perspectives when three or maybe even four Presidential candidates will be on the ballot in enough hstates to theoretically/potentially win the White House...how radical!

The conference finale was, of course, the keynote speech by former Congressman Bob Barr from Georgia. During the break between the afternoon sessions, Rob Hodgkinson caught me and asked me to deliver the introduction of Rep. Barr.

I was surprised by that - Rob was the emcee (and did a great job at it). I said to Rob "OK, let me get this straight...you want me to write and deliver an introduction of a keynote speech for a former Congressman, on CNN, on four minutes’ notice?"

Not missing a beat, Rob replied. "Yep".

Hopefully, it turned out OK.

All the rumors (predicated by obvious leaks to the media) turned out to be true - Bob Barr announced that he has formed a Presidential Exploratory Committee.

Depite all the promises and interest, very few media outlets showed up. The Associated Press, CNN, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and a local radio station made up the press corps. That was enough to get the coverage we needed.

Barr delivered a well-prepared speech and made a good case for why voters should consider a third party - especially a Libertarian - for their vote in the Presidential race. He was Presidential. He was energetic.

On Sunday, every major newspaper in the country, from what I can tell based on my searches, ran with the story. I am still surprised that the national media, including CNN and FOX News, carried the story and our local media didn’t even bother to show up.

Barr’s political credibility is beyond question: former Congressman, former US attorney and formerly with the CIA. Legislative, judicial (from the perspective of beinig a federal prosecutor) and intelligence experience, That’s a good political resume.

His name recognition gives him an immediate advantgage, should he formally become a candidate. Conservatives, who do not have one of their own to vote for in the Republican nominee, remember Barr as the Congressman who managed the impeachment effort against President Bill Clinton.

Barr also mixes his advocacy with an ecclectic clientele. Not many people work with the National Rifle Association and the American Civil Liberties Union at the same time and in a way that doesn’t compromise his principles.

Despite his name recognition, experience and service to the LP as a member of the Libertarian National Committee, Bob Barr is not a shoo-in to win the nomination. If he wants to be the LP nominee for President in 2008, he will have to work hard to win it, just like his competitors.

That’s exactly the way it should be.

One of the candidates for Vice President was also in attendance. Chris Bennett of Illinois spoke to a Sunday breakfast audience and lined out why he feels he should get that nomination.

The LP nominates someone for VP just like we do for President - at the convention, by delegate vote. Personally, I’d rather see the Presidential nominee select a running mate or have Presidential and Vice Presidential candidates run as teams, but I digress.

Chris made a decent showing. He understands his strengths: he’s young and the fact that he’s African-American allows him to reach out to demographics the LP has failed to reach effectively. He also understands his challenges, including a lack of political experience other than a run for local school board and volunteering on past LP campaigns.

He is very personable, sharp and dedicated to the values of personal freedom. I hope to have the chance to work with him as he continues his political work. He was the only candidate for VP at the conference.  

Having such a diversity of candidates is exciting to this 13-year member of the LP. Gravel was a liberal Democrat. Barr was a conservative Republican. Both have found a home in the Libertarian Party. I hope we see more current and former activists and members of the major parties join us and give all Americans a true choice this year and in years ahead.

For me, I’m happy to have been a small part of an event that promoted that goal. I can’t wait to see what happens in Denver!