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The Libertarian Promise To Michigan
By Greg Stempfle, Political Director
Paul Conolly unveils details of the Libertarian Promise to Michigan at the Fall Convention. Photo by Greg Stempfle.
In an effort to promote our candidates and party in the upcoming fall election, we have developed an outreach campaign known as "The Libertarian Promise to Michigan". Working with a group of eight candidates for the Michigan Legislature, we outlined some of the legislative priorities Libertarians will address if elected in the fall. We selected ten campaign issues and drafted statements on how Libertarians would deal with them. All of the issues and explanations in the Promise are consistent with the Libertarian Party of Michigan platform. The Promise was created to help candidates explain issues, and to create campaign material for the party and candidates to use. To that end we created a tri-fold brochure and slate card listing all of our candidates based around the Libertarian Promise to Michigan. We will be making some copies available in addition to both documents in .pdf form to print on your own.
Luncheon Speeches
During the luncheon at the August 25th LPM State Convention, a group of ten Libertarian candidates for the State Legislature introduced the Libertarian Promise to Michigan. Each spoke for a few minutes about one of the planks and how they are addressing that issue in their campaign. Members of the committee included; Chad McNamara, State Senate District 17, Mary Buzuma, State Senate District 30, Matt Kuehnel, State House District 22, Benjamin Carr, State House District 27, Norman Peterson, State House District 64, Jason Rees, State House District 65, Jamie Lewis, State House District 72, and Tyler Palmer, State House District 93. Additionally, the following candidates participated in the convention luncheon and helped provide feedback: Gregory Creswell, State House District 1, Patty Malowney, State House District 77, Jeff Pittel, State Senate District 12. Thanks to everyone who helped on this project!
Candidates are, of course, not obligated to take these positions and can speak on any issue they choose.
The Libertarian Promise to Michigan tri-fold brochure .pdf can be downloaded here
The Libertarian Promise to Michigan slate card .pdf can be downloaded here
The Libertarian Party, America's third largest political party, supports a reduction in the size and power of government and a return to individual rights. Libertarians believe the purpose of government, when it exists, is to protect individuals from force, theft, and fraud committed by others. Libertarians seek a society in which people are free to live their lives as they see fit, provided they are not violating the rights of others. While Libertarians sometimes agree with conservatives on certain issues, and liberals on others, we bring a unique view that is not represented by either of the two major political parties: government in service of individual rights.
As voters are increasingly dissatisfied with the two major parties, libertarian ideas are gaining in popularity, and the Libertarian Party is running a slate of candidates at the Federal, State, and Local levels this election. If elected, these are some of the legislative priorities Libertarians will address.
Libertarians have supported the legalization of marijuana for almost 50 years. Despite broad public approval for legalization, the Republicans and Democrats have worked for decades to keep marijuana on the black market.
Libertarians believe that ending the war on marijuana will save the taxpayers millions of dollars by not arresting, prosecuting, and imprisoning marijuana users and manufacturers. This will reduce our overpopulated prison system and free-up law enforcement to focus on actual criminals, those who violate the rights of others. Libertarians also support releasing from prison and expunging the criminal record of anyone convicted of a non-violent marijuana-related charge.
The economic benefits of legalization are numerous, and related industries will potentially employ thousands of Michigan residents.
2) Repeal No-Fault Auto Insurance
Michigan drivers face some of the highest insurance rates in the country, so high that thousands must forgo insurance entirely. Libertarians support repealing no-fault insurance and returning to a tort-based auto insurance system. Repealing no fault insurance will create reasonable prices while giving drivers more choice in their coverage options.
The special interests that fund our politicians want mandatory insurance to force drivers to buy their services, even if they do not want them. A tort system allows the victim to recover damages from those responsible and is less expensive as medical providers are more likely to bill health insurers rather than the auto insurance providers whom are typically billed at inflated rates.
Since insurance rates are determined by where a driver lives, those living in low-income, high-crime neighborhoods face the highest costs. This policy makes it difficult for the underprivileged to afford insurance, and forces many to drive uninsured.
3) Cut Occupational Licensing Requirements
Libertarians believe that everyone who can work should have the opportunity to do so. One way we can help create jobs and cut consumer costs is to drastically reduce the number of jobs which require a license to perform.
In Michigan, over 20% of workers need a license to hold a job. State requirements for licensing (often including an annual renewal) provide no added value to the public and unfairly exclude those with non-violent criminal records. Most occupational licensing is for the purpose of restricting competition in order to inflate consumer costs. If occupations believe that some sort of credentialing would be beneficial, they can create their own certification boards and exams.
4) Reduce Administrative Rules and Regulations
Libertarians believe that no rule is just unless it protects and defends the rights of life, liberty, and property, which are rights that we all possess.
More and more, our Michigan legislative branch creates laws that allow the executive to make up rules. This often involves review panels that bypass our courts. These bureaucrats are not elected by the people, but their presence allows legislators to play both sides of the fence, taking credit for successes and distancing themselves from failures.
Government agencies should only enforce laws passed by elected legislators, and those legislators should be responsible for their decisions to the electorate.
5) Eliminate Civil Asset Forfeiture
Civil asset forfeiture is theft by law enforcement agencies under the guise of lawful seizure. Libertarians believe that no one should be subject to loss of property, unless the owner is convicted of a crime involving the violation of rights of another person and the property is the product of that crime. In cases of civil asset forfeiture, property taken is unrelated to the alleged crime and/or taken without warrant, a violation of due process. This is a direct contradiction of the Fourth Amendment.
Additionally, law enforcement agencies force the victims of Civil Asset Forfeiture to undergo long and expensive procedures to reacquire their own property which has been appropriated unlawfully from them. This is done to guarantee that the agency realizes profit from the theft. It is an illegal and exploitative method of revenue collection by law enforcement.
6) Promote Choice in Education
Libertarians believe that the education of children is a parental responsibility and should be undertaken without interference from government. Parents should have control of and responsibility for their children's education.
Libertarians opposes the one-size-fits-all system mandated by the Department of Education. Its failure is evident, as numerous students exit unprepared to enter the workforce, pursue higher education, or enter trade schooling. Since government schools fail to educate, and frequently indoctrinate and interfere with the free choice of parents and students, we condemn compulsory education laws and call for their repeal. We also support the repeal of tax laws that support public schools, as they place an undue burden on non-parents, who have no obligation to support others' children.
7) Cut Taxes and Spending
Libertarians support lowering taxes and government spending at all levels. Rarely do either Republicans or Democrats, once elected, take any concrete measures to reduce taxes or cut spending, nor is either party actually concerned with realizing a balanced budget.
If taxation must exist, then tax favoritism should be illegal. Abatements, subsidies, credits, and other incentives to businesses based on geographical area, job creation, or any other criteria deny equal protection under the law. Adding sales tax to products already subject to specific state taxes, such as gasoline and cigarettes, should be ended. Such taxation places an undue burden on the consumer.
8) Adopt Ranked Choice Voting
Many candidates for public office are elected despite most voters preferring another candidate. This is because we use a "first past the post" system where the candidate who gets the most votes (a plurality), wins. This leads to the electing of politicians who do not represent the choice of most of the voters, and reinforces a two-party system
Libertarians support adopting Ranked Choice Voting (RCV), a method where, rather than vote for a single candidate, voters rank each of the candidates. If nobody receives a majority of the vote, the last place person is dropped and the votes cast for that candidate are given to the voter's second choice. This is repeated until a winning candidate receives a majority. This system has been implemented in Maine as well as several large US cities, and was approved by voters in the Michigan city of Ferndale in 2004.
RCV discourages negative campaigning, since each candidate has an incentive to try to earn the second choice of each voter. Further, by requiring a majority to win, it encourages the election of candidates who are more representative of the district. It also encourages voters to consider independent and third-party candidates without worrying about the "spoiler effect" or "wasting" their vote.
9) Curb Abuse by Police and Political Use of the National Guard
Police and the Michigan National Guard exist for the protection of individuals and their rights.
Libertarians support holding police departments accountable when law enforcement officers commit criminal acts against members of the public.
In the absence of a declaration of war by Congress, Libertarians oppose any use of Michigan troops by the federal government for any purpose other than natural disaster relief, including the enforcement of immigration laws.
10) Expand Concealed Carry
As all individuals have the right to defend themselves and to possess the means to do so, Libertarians oppose any law that hinders the right of a law-abiding person to own a firearm or other means of self-defense.
Libertarians support the right of property owners to prohibit people from carrying weapons into their homes and businesses, but oppose gun-free zones mandated by government officials, and attempts to prohibit carrying weapons in public areas.
Libertarians Nominate Statewide Candidates for General Election
By Greg Stempfle, Political Director
Delegates convene for the first LPM Fall Convention.
Delegates to the Libertarian Party of Michigan (LPM) State Convention nominated their statewide candidates for public office on Saturday August 25 at the Wyndham Garden Hotel in Romulus. The most high profile nomination, that of Lieutenant Governor, went to attorney and businesswoman Angelique Chaiser Thomas of Lake Orion. She will join the ticket of gubernatorial candidate Bill Gelineau, who won the contested Libertarian primary for Governor on August 7. John Tatar, the gubernatorial primary runner-up and a retired school teacher, was selected as a candidate for State Board of Education. Other nominees include Gregory Stempfle for Secretary of State, Kerry Morgan for Supreme Court, and Lisa Lane Gioia for Attorney General. They will join 42 other Libertarian candidates on the general election ballot, who advanced after winning their primary elections.
The convention kicked off with delegates voting on proposed changes to the LPM Platform. James Weeks II of Livingston County chaired this year's platform committee. Changes that were approved include, restoring constitutional rights of felons once released from incarceration, recognizing non-fiat currencies such as precious metals and cryptocurrency, and in mirroring the new national LP plank, a new section was added on the rights of sex workers.
Libertarian Promise To Michigan
During a luncheon presentation, candidates for the Michigan Legislature unveiled the 10 point "Libertarian Promise to Michigan," a platform that sets out some of the legislative agenda items that Libertarians will work on if elected this November. This outreach program was drafted by a group of Libertarian candidates for State Senate and State House and includes ending marijuana prohibition, repealing the no-fault insurance requirement, curbing abuse by police, adopting ranked choice voting, and concrete measures for cutting taxes.
Following the nomination of candidates, delegates also voted to oppose the proposed constitutional amendment creating a citizens redistricting commission, but did not take a position on the ballot proposal organized by the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol. There was also a resolution opposing HB 4747 and tie-barred legislation that would make running for office more costly by denying filing fee refunds to some candidates.
Nominated By Convention
The following candidates were nominated by the Libertarian Party of Michigan to appear on the November ballot:
Auburn Hills Attorney And Businesswoman Angelique Chaiser Thomas Confirmed
Libertarian Party of Michigan News Release
Romulus, MI - Delegates to the Libertarian Party State Convention overwhelmingly approved Auburn Hills Attorney and Businesswoman Angelique Chaiser Thomas as their choice for Lt. Governor. The Libertarian party of Michigan is now a major party categorically on par with the the other two major parties, the Republicans and Democrats.
Angelique Chaser Thomas at the 2018 Libertarian Party of Michigan Fall Convention.
Libertarian nominee Bill Gelineau, fresh from his recent primary win, seemed ready for the Party's next fight saying, "We have earned a place in the debates". The actions of the convention underlined the unprecedented unity of the Party. "Angelique and I will provide clear and solution-oriented perspectives in what otherwise has been a mud-slinging affair thus far", Gelineau quipped.
For her part, Ms. Thomas offered both humility and a glimpse of the race ahead. "I'm incredibly humbled that the Convention has given me the opportunity to be part of this massive effort to break the so-called two-party system. But, if Michigan citizens vote their conscience...based on their beliefs instead of their fears, we cannot lose.". Ms. Thomas' short biography is available at:
The overflow crowd of delegates at the first-ever Major Party Nominating Convention cheered
with approval as Mr. Gelineau hailed the Libertarian Promise to Michigan, the Party's commitment to reform many broken Michigan government institutions. "Let's Rise", the Convention theme, seemed to match the sentiment building in Romulus. State Chairman Bill Hall, one of the longtime leaders of the party, seemed satisfied. "Michigan needs another major voice, and we're committed to being that robust voice. Our team is ready to go."
The fourteen LPM Candidates who were endorsed by MVF-PAC were sent frames like this one to put on their social media profile pictures.
By Mary Buzuma, District 2 Rep.
Allegan, MI - The Libertarian Party of West Michigan is hosting a booth at the Allegan County Fair from September 7 - September 15, 2018. This year we will be located in the same building as the Republicans and Democrats, so it's going to be fun! As in the past all volunteers will receive a free pass to the fair which includes parking (pretty sweet deal!) Work the booth then see the fair! Sign up at the following link:
Please sign up as soon as possible so I can get you your pass in time before your volunteer date.
Candidates. The fair is one of the largest county fairs in Michigan and people come from all over Michigan and we would love to promote you so send us your stuff.
Detroit, MI - The Libertarian Party of Wayne County is hosting an outreach table at Dally In The Alley. Thousands of people will turn out for this day and evening of music, food, art, beer, and merchandise.
Our top-of-ticket, Bill Gelineau and Angelique Thomas will be making a special appearance for most of the day.
The annual event is on Saturday September 8th in the heart of Detroit's Cultural Center by W. Hancock & Second Avenue. Volunteers are needed from early morning through early evening. Peek time is from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The party goes late into the night, but volunteers will start packing up after Sunset.
Interested persons should call Wayne County Chair Scotty Boman at (313) 247-2052 (Voice Only) or email scottyboman@hotmail.com
Money & Politics
By Katie Nepton, Michigan Senate candidate (Dist. 24)
Editor's note: This article concerns a Libertarian candidate who was nominated through the primary system. The Michigan Libertarian provides fair coverage of any duly nominated candidate without endorsement of the candidate's views.
August 7, 2018 was the Michigan primary election, and across all of the elections that took place, one election in particular showed it was possible for corruption and greed to be removed from the political stage. My campaign for Michigan State Senate in District 24 is proudly not accepting campaign donations from anyone. I don't need money, what I need is votes.
In my race for State Senate there was a contested Republican primary and an uncontested Democrat; each of these three candidates raised hundreds of thousands of dollars, which is money that could have otherwise been spent within our community; to our local businesses, to our neighbors. That money could have repaired parks, helped churches, and promoted growth ... instead it pulls the community apart, pitting neighbor against neighbor, and the election has only just gotten started.
Communities need funds, politicians do not
We need to change the way the system works. And the ONLY way to do that is to vote for integrity. Use your voice to promote and vote for candidates who will keep money out of politics. I want people to decide for themselves how the world around us should be framed. Whether something is legal or illegal or legal with restrictions should be decided by the people who will be held to the laws.
We can have a better community and we can have a better world; we simply need to choose it.
~Katie
Katie Nepton
Candidate for State Senate District 24
Happily refusing your money & accepting your support
Jackson - Hillsdale Affiliate Hosts Crypto-Money Talk By State Rep. Candidate
By Ron Acton, Jackson-Hillsdale Communications Director
Jackson, MI - On September 19th the Jackson Hillsdale Libertarian Party will host a talk on "Why you need Crypto-money and how to get some" which will be delivered by 65th District State Rep. candidate, Jason Rees. This will be part of their monthly meeting and follow that schedule:
6:00 pm to 6:30 pm Social Networking.
6:30 pm to 7:00 pm JHLP Business Meeting.
7:00 pm to 8:00 pm Speakers and Q & A.
Location: Steve's Ranch Family Restaurant, 311 West Louis Glick Hwy , Jackson MI 49201
Speaker's Bio:
Libertarian Philosophy: Anacho-Capitalist, None Aggression Principal, Voluntarism, Obstructionist.
Born and raised in Jackson, Michigan
Virginia High School Teacher for 5 years.
B.A.L.A.H in the humanities, M.S. Education Masters Degree, M.A. Math master in Mathamatics.
Working on Mathematics Doctorate in math; "A 3,500 year old problem".
College Mathematics Teacher for 10 years.
Self-employed commodities trader.
Greg Stempfle, the Libertarian candidate for Michigan Secretary of State, will be visiting the Cheboygan area on Sunday, September 16th.
Stempfle's campaign stop will take place at the Great Lakes Grill at 5:00 PM. Several reform proposals will be discussed, including: voting by mail, automatic voter registration, same day registration, expanded absentee voting, ranked choice voting, proportional representation in the Legislature, ending straight ticket voting, ending public funding of campaigns for Governor, allowing non-partisan local elections, and reforming Michigan's no-fault auto insurance system.
Following the forum with Stempfle, there will be a regular business meeting for the Straits Area Libertarian Party.
Secretary of State Candidate Greg Stempfle will be among the candidates attending the forum. Photo by Scotty Boman.
Manistee, MI - Several candidates running in the November election have added their names to the agenda for the upcoming Libertarian Candidate Forum. They include non-partisan candidates for Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem of the city of Manistee. The Forum is hosted by the Northwest Libertarians.
The public is invited to this event. It will be held on Wednesday, September 12 at 6:30 pm at the Days' Inn Manistee, 1462 Manistee Highway in Manistee.
Candidates will be invited to speak for 5-10 minutes, regarding their reason for running and what they feel the most important issue is for northern Michigan.
Who will be speaking?
More information on the speakers is below. In addition to the candidates for Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem, those in attendance will include Libertarian candidates for Governor, Secretary of State, Manistee County Commissioner, Arcadia Township Supervisor, and MSU Board of Trustees.
Bill Gelineau, who is the Libertarian candidate for Governor, will come from Grand Rapids. He recently won the "first ever" Libertarian primary for governor. See Bill Gelineau's campaign website.
Gregory Stempfle is coming from the Detroit area, and is the Libertarian candidate for Secretary of State. Click here for more information about Greg.
Local Libertarian candidate David Holmer has a good chance of becoming Manistee County Commissioner. See David's Facebook
Robert Clark is a Libertarian running for Township Supervisor in Arcadia. Robert is a licensed builder and Master Excavator. He runs Arcadia Valley Enterprises.
Also attending will be Tim Orzchowski, Libertarian candidate for MSU Board of Trustees.
Local non-partisan candidates include City of Manistee Mayor James Smith, his opponent Michael Szymanski, and Mayor Pro-Tem Roger Zeilinski.
Discover the alternative!
If you have ever considered voting Libertarian, or want to meet members of the party, please consider attending! Libertarians are now officially a major party in Michigan. They are a refreshing alternative to the two-party options.
Scotty Boman Petitions For Recount In Detroit. Alleges "Irregular" Ballots
This candidate was selected at a state convention, but a candidate's views and activities are not necessarily endorsed by the Michigan Libertarian.
Scotty Boman on the WHPR program "Feedback". From left to right: Commissioner William Davis, Host Theo Broughton, DRACO Founder Scotty Boman
Detroit, MI - Civilian-oversight activist (and Board of Education Candidate) Scotty Boman filed a petition requesting the recount of six precincts in a challenge to City of Detroit Proposal R which calls for the Revision of the city's Charter. According to a letter filed as part of the petition, "... there are witnesses who voted (on August 7th 2018) in the 2018 Primary Election from five of these precincts who received ballots which did not have the Detroit Charter Revision question, Proposal R, printed on them."
Boman will be looking for more than just an incidental counting error. He states, "Furthermore, an elector voting in person (on August 7th 2018) at Detroit Precinct 25 inquired as to why the proposal was missing from her ballot. The election worker misinformed her that there were no proposals on the Primary Election ballot and that it would be on the General Election ballot."
According to the Wayne County Board of Canvassers, the measure passed by 184 votes. Boman commented on the narrow margin saying, "Close elections like this remind me that every vote matters... that choosing to stay home or vote can have a profound impact on one's community."
The Campaign To Stop The Revision
Prior to the election, Boman had been leading an effort to prevent revision of the city's charter, primarily because he was concerned that the right of residents to elect police commissioners would be rescinded. He made multiple radio and TV appearances as the founder of Detroit Residents Advancing Civilian Oversight (D.R.AC.O.). In the most recent appearances he has stated that civilian oversight of the Detroit Police Department would be in jeopardy if the charter revision passed. Appearances included The Robert Ficano Show and the Bankole Thompson show on 910 AM Superstation, as well as a recent appearance on the WHPR show, Feedback.
Petition Approved
On Friday August 31st the Wayne County Board of Canvassers approved the petitions of Boman, Greg Newsome (of the Detroit People's Platform), and Lucinda Darrah to Recount a total of 65 Precincts where Proposal R has been challenged.
Detroit People's Platform had also opposed the proposal before the election, and several community activists along with the Detroit People's Task Force assisted Boman on the recount petition effort. "I could not have done this alone, but this is just the beginning" Said Boman. The counting begins on Thursday (September 6th ) at Cobo Hall.
Editor's note: This article concerns a Libertarian candidate who was nominated through the primary system. The Michigan Libertarian provides fair coverage of any Libertarian Party of Michigan candidate without endorsing the candidate's views.
Ellison being arrested. Picture from his Go Fund Me post.
Royal Oak, MI - On the morning of August 23rd Eighth District Congressional Candidate Brian Ellison was arrested the second time for protesting this year's homicides in Royal Oak, both of which were carried out by police officers. The most recent protest was at the "I Dig Royal Oak" event at the site where the City of Royal Oak plans to build its new City Hall and Police Headquarters. Ellison was holding a sign that read "Free Parking for Corrigan" A reference to Police Chief Corrigan's failure to pay a large number of parking tickets.
Brian Ellison recorded part of the protest and arrest,
An image of the citation Brian Ellison was issued. Ellison substituted the arresting officer's name for the original signature.
and handed his video camera (or phone) to fellow protesters [ https://www.facebook.com/brian.ellison.9484/videos/274748246584706/ ]. The officers took his sign, arrested him, and confiscated his side-arm. The arresting officer who first challenged Ellison's right to protest was Al Carter, but another officer's name was on the citation. Ellison redacted the other name before publishing an image of the ticket. He said that he did so because he thought it was unfair to embarrass an officer that didn't do anything to him.
The charge was disorderly conduct, but the citation read...
DEF ORGANIZED A PROTEST AT A PUBLIC EVENT. DEF WAS GIVEN AN AREA TO PROTEST AND WAS WARNED MULTIPLE TIMES TO STAY IN THAT AREA WHILE PROTESTIG. DEF HELD A SIGN AT THE EVENT AS PROTES
He was released in less than 24 hours under some unusual conditions.
Royal Oak's Court Order Requires Ellison and Some Others To Stay Away From All Police
Ellison's bond was modified in compliance with an emergency motion by Royal Oaks City Attorney David W. Gillam on August 24th . The motion reads...
Wherefore, the people of the City of Royal Oak respectfully request that Defendant's bond be modified pursuant to MCR 6.106(D) to prohibit Defendant and/or any other person acting on his behalf from coming within fifty feet (50') of any uniformed police officer, unless Defendant has reasonable cause to believe that he has been the victim of a crime.
The motion took the form of an order signed by Judge Derek W. Meinecke on August 29th.
In response to the broad reach of this order, many people have chosen to defy the order by posting photos of themselves with police and the hash-tag caption "#BrianEllisonSaysHi" Thereby showing themselves to be less than 50 feet from the officer while claiming to do so on Brian Ellison's behalf. Ellison has posted comments on FB insisting that he is not asking people to do this. He has also posted comments in which he addresses the possibility that he may be forced to break traffic laws to comply with the order, since he would need to keep himself 50 feet away from any uniformed approaching officer.
Since receiving the order he has received multiple traffic tickets in the mail, the validity of which he disputes.
This isn't Ellison's first arrest for protesting homicides in Royal Oak, which have thus-far been initiated by police. The Michigan Libertarian covered this in the July issue.
The police haven't been the only people objecting to Ellison's activism. After he submitted multiple Freedom of Information Act requests Ellison claims police began harassing he and his wife. After filing a lawsuit against the city Ellison lost his job. The reason given for his dismissal was that his, "outside activities with the city are affecting the company's business in the city."
In a related development, on August 1st Livingston County Prosecutor David Leyton (D) ruled that Officer Keith Bierenga was justified in his killing of unarmed motorist Antonino Gordon. On August 16th the Oakland County Prosecutor determined that Officer Ryan Addis was justified in shooting unarmed motorist Cody Reynolds.
Bill Gelineau Announces His Preference For Running Mate
The content of this article is copied from from a News Release and posting by the Bill Gelineau Campaign.
Angelique Chaiser Thomas. Photo from her Facebook profile.
Grand Rapids, MI - Bill Gelineau, winner of the August 7thprimary for the Libertarian Party for the office of Governor, has announced his choice for Lieutenant Governor to be considered at the State Convention of the Party in Romulus this Saturday, August 25th.
Auburn Hills Attorney and Businesswoman Angelique Chaiser Thomas joins
the historic effort of the Libertarian Party. The libertarian party of Michigan
attained legal Major Party status in the state of Michigan for the first time in
state history. Ms. Thomas, 41, has the support of her husband Michael and
two children in her first effort for elective office.
"Angelique brings a strong desire for justice together with a keen
understanding of the principles of freedom", said Gelineau. "Clearly, our
effort to reach new audiences and build our campaign could not have done
better."
"I look forward to the challenge of being part a of the tremendous team Bill
has assembled to take on the old parties and bring common sense values
and new approaches to Michigan public policies", said Ms. Thomas. "This
year is when the bell of liberty will ring for all in Michigan."
Wife, Mother, Attorney and Michigan Business Owner
After practicing law for several years, Angelique co-founded Manufacturing and Design Electronics ("MADE") in 2010. Located in Auburn Hills, and formerly named CI Lighting, Made designs and manufactures specialized printed circuit boards. Angelique is responsible for strategic growth initiatives. More specifically, she focuses on asset management, acquisition of talent, and contract formation and negotiation.
Prior to founding MADE, Angelique practiced criminal defense and family law. During years of practice with indigent and others in need, she developed a passion for ensuring access to the legal system. Her inside view of the way the law is used to control people with fines and costs that make the criminal justice system biased against the poor and others outside the power structure.
The daughter of an immigrant mother and a father who served in the U.S. Air Force, Angelique views American citizenship as a privilege that can be leveraged by innovative individuals to harness the growing opportunities of the global marketplace. A strong advocate of free enterprise and the dream of all Americans to be free to participate without excessive government mandates. Understanding and observing the process by which her mom became a citizen gives special drive in Angelique for so many hoping to live the American Dream.
Angelique holds a BS in Political Science and Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy, an MBA from Northwestern University, and a Certificate in Strategic Change Management from Eli Broad School of Management at Michigan State University. She resides in Lake Orion with her husband Michael and their two daughters.
NOTE: Nominee Bill Gelineau was offering to the delegates of the Convention of the Libertarian Party the person he felt was the best nominee for Lt. Governor of the great State of Michigan. It was recognized that the delegates alone made that decision at the State Convention in Romulus on August 25.
Bill Gelineau Wins Historic Libertarian Gubernatorial Primary
Libertarian primary results as reported by the Secretary of State.
Lansing, MI - Bill Gelineau is the winner of Michigan's historic Libertarian primary election. Bill Gelineau won with 58.02% (3,952 votes) over John Tatar who earned 41.98% (2,860 votes). The results conclude a gubernatorial primary season of vigorous campaigning in which the Libertarians received unprecedented, though not quite equal, media coverage.
In proclaiming victory, Gelineau said,
I'm really honored to have a chance to carry the banner of liberty on behalf of the Libertarian Party of Michigan. Mr. Tatar and I conducted a series of civil and thoughtful debates about policies that affect Michigan. Together, we were able to begin breaking down barriers in the media, provide practical and principled perspectives, and give voters yearning for a freedom-oriented message of hope.
He also looked ahead to the General Election:
As we look to the fall campaign, we need to work to organize all of our members, activists, and new supporters for the common goal of ending the unproductive political system controlled by the old parties. Our race provided a refreshing change from the negative nonsense voters usually hear. Let us work as hard as we can, together, to make this historic election meaningful in bringing more freedom to the State of Michigan.
In conceding to Gelineau, Tatar called for unity:
I feel it is very important to unite the Libertarian Party for the up-coming election to be able to keep our status and keep the Libertarians as a viable force in this corrupt election process. Our voice must be strong and must be heard.
Libertarian Party of Michigan Chair Bill Hall called upon the party faithful to be gracious:
We learned a lot in our first Libertarian Party primary election ever. How much added media attention a primary election garners for our candidates. How important it was for us to have two dedicated and principled candidates for Governor, who gave the media a reason to cover our first-ever primary. We owe tremendous thanks to John Tatar and Bill Gelineau for their hard work and successful efforts to publicize our party and its principles. Please take the time to call, write or email them and thank them for all they have done for our party.
Some events are also posted by their hosts at the Meetup.com
site. It is recommended that you contact an officer for an affiliate or
check the Website (or Facebook page) associated with the meeting host (if they have
one) before arriving at a meeting. Some meetings can get canceled, or
locations can change with short notice. Contact information connected to
most events can be found by expanding the item on the "Agenda view" of
the Events page of our website.
September 4, 2018 - Southwest Michigan Libertarian Party monthly meeting, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Theo and Stacy's, 5225 Portage Rd. Portage, MI 49002
For more information, contact Jason Brandenburg at swmi4liberty@be-innovative.net
September 5, 2018 - Huron-Raisin Affiliate Meeting, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Classic Cup Cafe, 4389 Jackson Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48103
For more information, contact James Hudler at 734-475-9792 or email james.hudler@gmail.com
September 6, 2018 - Livingston County Michigan Libertarians social meeting, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Cleary's Pub, 117 E Grand River Ave. Howell, MI 48843
For more information, contact James Weeks II at 810.422.8769 or email j.weeks@riseup.net
September 6, 2018 - Libertarian Party of Wayne County monthly meeting, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Tijuana Mexican Kitchen, 18950 Ford Rd. Detroit, MI 48228
Business and speakers, for the Wayne County affiliate, are normally scheduled from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM, but people arrive around 6:30 PM to order dinner. For more information, contact Scotty Boman at (313) 247-2052 or email ScottyBoman@hotmail.com
September 12, 2018 - Libertarians of Macomb County Monthly meeting, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Ike's Restaurant, 38550 Van Dyke, Sterling Heights
For more information, contact Mike Saliba at macomblp@gmail.com
September 16, 2018 - Capital Area Affiliate monthly meeting, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Harper's Restaurant and Brew Pub. 131 Albert Ave. East Lansing, MI 48823.
Contact Luke Sciberras at 248-302-1064 or emailCapitalAreaLP@gmail.com to confirm location.
Times and locations may very from month to month.
September 19, 2018 - Libertarian Party of Oakland County Convention, 6:30 PM dinner, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM meeting, We have returned to Shield's Pizza! 1476 W Maple Rd. Troy, MI
For more information contact County Chair Greg Stempfle at (313) 929-1789 or gregstempfle@gmail.com
September 19, 2018 - Jackson-Hillsdale Libertarian Party monthly meeting, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Steve's Ranch Restaurant, 311 W. Louis Glick Hwy. Jackson, MI 49201
Special Presentation: "Why you need Crypto-money and how to get some" which will be delivered by 65th District State Rep. candidate, Jason Rees.Please click here to read the article about this event
For more information contact Norman Peterson (269) 330-2980. JHLP Website: https://www.jhlp.org/
September 23, 2018 - Genesee County, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Jan's Bar and Grill. 7499 Miller Rd. Swartz Creek, MI 48473
For more information, contact Alex Cooper at alexcooperliberty@gmail.com or Dustin Reamer at olddrumbelly@gmail.com
The Michigan Libertarian is a publication of the Libertarian Party of Michigan
Libertarian Party of Michigan: PO Box 27065, Lansing, MI 48909; Phone:
888.FREE.NOW. The Libertarian Party of Michigan website is paid for with
regulated funds by the Libertarian Party of Michigan Executive
Committee, Inc. d/b/a the Libertarian Party of Michigan. Not authorized
by any candidate.
Upcoming Events
Some events are also posted by their hosts at the Meetup.com site. It is recommended that you contact an officer for an affiliate or check the Website (or Facebook page) associated with the meeting host (if they have one) before arriving at a meeting. Some meetings can get canceled, or locations can change with short notice. Contact information connected to most events can be found by expanding the item on the "Agenda view" of the Events page of our website.
September 4, 2018 - Southwest Michigan Libertarian Party monthly meeting, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Theo and Stacy's, 5225 Portage Rd. Portage, MI 49002
For more information, contact Jason Brandenburg at swmi4liberty@be-innovative.net
September 5, 2018 - Huron-Raisin Affiliate Meeting, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Classic Cup Cafe, 4389 Jackson Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48103
For more information, contact James Hudler at 734-475-9792 or email james.hudler@gmail.com
September 6, 2018 - Livingston County Michigan Libertarians social meeting, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Cleary's Pub, 117 E Grand River Ave. Howell, MI 48843
For more information, contact James Weeks II at 810.422.8769 or email j.weeks@riseup.net
September 6, 2018 - Libertarian Party of Wayne County monthly meeting, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Tijuana Mexican Kitchen, 18950 Ford Rd. Detroit, MI 48228
Business and speakers, for the Wayne County affiliate, are normally scheduled from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM, but people arrive around 6:30 PM to order dinner. For more information, contact Scotty Boman at (313) 247-2052 or email ScottyBoman@hotmail.com
September 8, 2018 - Libertarian Party of Wayne County outreach booth at the Dally In The Alley. Volunteers needed!
Please click here to read the article about this event For more information, contact Scotty Boman at (313) 247-2052 or email ScottyBoman@hotmail.com
September 7-15, 2018 - Libertarian Party of West Michigan outreach booth at the Allegan County Fair. Volunteers needed!
Please click here to read the article about this event For more information, Mary Buzuma mary.buzuma@att.net (757) 748-5606 (cell) or email mary.buzuma@att.net
September 12, 2018 - Public Forum for Upcoming Election, 6:30 PM
Please click here to read the article about this event Days' Inn Manistee, 1462 Manistee Highway in Manistee
For more information, contact Donna Gundle-Krieg at nwmichiganlibertarians@gmail.com
September 12, 2018 - Libertarians of Macomb County Monthly meeting, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Ike's Restaurant, 38550 Van Dyke, Sterling Heights
For more information, contact Mike Saliba at macomblp@gmail.com
September 16, 2018 - Straits Area Libertarian Party (SALP), 5:00 PM
Greg Stempfle, the Libertarian candidate for Michigan Secretary of State, will be visiting the Cheboygan area.
The regular meeting will follow his presentation.
Great Lakes Grill at 817 E State St. Cheboygan, MI 49721.
Contact Andy Evans at (231) 625-8403 or email amevans_1968@yahoo.com For Updates visit: www.fb.com/StraitsAreaLP
September 16, 2018 - Capital Area Affiliate monthly meeting, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Harper's Restaurant and Brew Pub. 131 Albert Ave. East Lansing, MI 48823.
Contact Luke Sciberras at 248-302-1064 or emailCapitalAreaLP@gmail.com to confirm location.
Times and locations may very from month to month.
September 19, 2018 - Libertarian Party of Oakland County Convention, 6:30 PM dinner, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM meeting,
We have returned to Shield's Pizza! 1476 W Maple Rd. Troy, MI
For more information contact County Chair Greg Stempfle at (313) 929-1789 or gregstempfle@gmail.com
September 19, 2018 - Jackson-Hillsdale Libertarian Party monthly meeting, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Steve's Ranch Restaurant, 311 W. Louis Glick Hwy. Jackson, MI 49201
Special Presentation: "Why you need Crypto-money and how to get some" which will be delivered by 65th District State Rep. candidate, Jason Rees.Please click here to read the article about this event For more information contact Norman Peterson (269) 330-2980. JHLP Website: https://www.jhlp.org/
September 23, 2018 - Genesee County, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Jan's Bar and Grill. 7499 Miller Rd. Swartz Creek, MI 48473
For more information, contact Alex Cooper at alexcooperliberty@gmail.com or Dustin Reamer at olddrumbelly@gmail.com
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If you are new to the Michigan Libertarian, you can link to 2016 issues here, http://michiganlp.org/category/newsletters . Older issues are preserved in our historical archives here: http://old.michiganlp.org/resources-2/newsletter.
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