The Association of Porstmouth Taxpayers has announced its 2009 endorsements.
To be clear, APT is not a libertarian group. They—I suppose I should say, we—are focused exclusively on fiscal responsibility. That doesn’t even necessarily mean smaller government; it means that the taxes collected should be used effectively and efficiently. However, they were the closest thing to an existing liberty-leaning group I could find in Portsmouth, and I hope to be an advocate for more non-governmental options there. (For example, I think that a lot of arts and sports programs currently run by the city could be done better by non-profit organizations. The programs could continue, and even improve, but be funded by donations instead of taxes.)
It is a little odd to note that, of the eight candidates running for re-election to City Council, APT has endorsed six. This is really a recognition of the zero budget increase that came through this year, whereas a more strongly libertarian organization would only have endorsed candidates supportive of actual budget cuts.
I will also personally endorse Jack Thorsen; I think he is as good or better than any of the candidates endorsed here.
The process was certainly interesting, and is a good reason for libertarians to get involved with established single-issue groups. Nearly all of the candidates appeared in person for interviews, and it was a good chance to meet and talk with most of the current members of City Council and School Board.
Filed under: general | Tagged: local politics, portsmouth, Portsmouth NH, taxpayers | 2 Comments »