GOP and libertarians

With a Clintonian corporatist on the left and a populist nationalist on the right, the Libertarians clearly had an unusual opportunity. Instead, they nominated Gary Johnson again, a former Republican governor of New Mexico and erstwhile marijuana entrepreneur. Johnson’s ideological compass is erratic, at best.

A new Reuters poll found that 19 percent of Americans consider themselves to be libertarian. "One in five Americans consider themselves libertarian, with younger adults being the most likely to adopt the label," according to Reuters. "Among adults aged 18 to 29, 32 percent consider themselves libertarian. Just 12 percent of Americans age 60 or older consider themselves libertarian." But despite increasingly anti-big government sentiments, many respondents say they want to keep around federal safety net programs.

While these groups are similarly conservative on economic matters (libertarians are further to the right than white evangelicals or Tea Partiers on some economic issues, such as raising the minimum wage), they are extremely divided by their views on religion.

Repubs can reach out to minorities in their roles as parents, taxpayers and small businessmen instead of mere pandering and giving in to amnesty.

Can the Robin to John McCain's Batman fend off two Ron Paul-inspired opponents?

"Christie worries about the dangers of freedom. I worry about the danger of losing that freedom. Spying w/out warrants is unconstitutional."

Rep. Labrador says the GOP can attract more voters by focusing on libertarian values like civil liberties.