NJ Libertarians Vetting Dozens Of Potential Candidates For 2021

NEW JERSEY — Are you tired of the current political machine in the Garden State? Do you think that you’ve got what it takes to create change? You’re not alone, according to the New Jersey Libertarian Party (NJLP).

Since launching its latest recruitment effort, the NJLP has seen interest from more than 60 potential candidates interested in running for office in 2021. And it's seeking more, NJLP Chair Dan Krause recently told Patch.

“Our goal is to build a record of successful governing officials doing good work on behalf of the people of New Jersey,” Krause said.

“We encourage people to run for the office that they would find most meaningful, with a strong recommendation that people start at the local level,” Krause continued. “Nationally, the Libertarian Party has well over 200 sitting officials, with the lion's share being at the local level.”

“We aim to repeat that success in New Jersey and end the stranglehold the Democrats and Republicans have on our fair state,” Krause added.

Krause said the party currently has “two strong candidates” for the race against incumbent Gov. Phil Murphy, but is always open to more.

“Assembly and Senate races are welcome as well, but the true good we can do for our neighbors happens at the most local level,” Krause urged.

“We’re still building out our list of vetted candidates, and we’re always happy to speak with anyone who thinks the Libertarian Party may be a good fit for them,” Krause said.

Anyone who wants to run for office can send an email to chair@njlp.org, or submit a candidate questionnaire here.

Founded in 1972, here’s how the state’s third-largest political party describes itself on its website:

“Our vision is for a world in which all individuals have the right to exercise sole control over their own lives, and have the right to live in whatever manner they choose, so long as they do not forcibly interfere with the equal right of others to live as they choose. Our goal is to build a political party that elects Libertarians to public office, and moves public policy in a libertarian direction.”

The NJLP’s platform can be seen here. The national party platform, which the NJLP operates under, can be seen here.

“Since the NJLP is the official New Jersey state affiliate of the national party platform, both platforms apply, with deference given to the national platform when there is disagreement,” Krause said.

• See related article: Libertarians Standing Tall As Largest Third-Party In New Jersey
• See related article: NJ Marijuana Laws Are Full Of Flaws, State Libertarian Party Says

While many New Jersey Libertarians still face an uphill battle against their Democratic and Republican counterparts, it’s a rewarding experience simply to run, according to one recent candidate, John Mirrione.

In 2020, Mirrione – a karate expert, small business owner and U.S. Air Force veteran – ran against incumbent U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Jr., a Democratic Party stalwart in the state’s 10th Congressional District.

“I feel that now, more than ever, people were more open to a third-party viewpoint,” Mirrione recently told Patch after being asked to reflect on the election.

• See related article: NJ Libertarian Says 2020 Election 'Empowered' Third-Party Voters
• See related article: NJ Karate Guru Beats COVID, Runs For Congress As Libertarian

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