“A world without dialogue is a universe of darkness." -Erik Pevernagie

Volume 3, Issue 21 | July 2024

"Humanity should question itself, once more, about the absurd and always unfair phenomenon of war, on whose stage of death and pain only remains standing the negotiating table that could and should have prevented it." -Pope John Paul II

In this issue…

 

 

From the Chair

Hello Liberty Lovers, I hope your summers are all going well!

It is with great enthusiasm and immense pride that I can say, thus far this year has been a phenomenal one for our party. We have grown in numbers, in influence, and in impact. Our voice for Liberty is being heard louder and clearer across the state, and our message of individual freedom, personal responsibility, and limited government is resonating with more North Carolinians than ever before.

I say this with pride because, wow, what a $%!7show the two sides of the uniparty have been. We had a near-assassination of an ex-president and presidential candidate that everyone seems to have forgotten, except to mention the resignation of the head of the Secret Service who didn't seem to think the assassination attempt was a big deal. We had the sitting president step down from the race after it became impossible to hide his advanced dementia, and his VP anointed as the new candidate despite some of the lowest primary support in history.

I am especially proud of our candidates, the heart and soul of our movement. They come from diverse backgrounds and bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and dedication to the table. Whether they are running for local school boards, city councils, state legislature, or congressional seats, they share a common goal: to fight for the rights of every individual and to challenge the status quo that has held our state back for too long.

Among our exceptional candidates we have four council of state candidates, who hosted the first of a series of planned townhall meetings, and so many others at all levels, who are making waves on radio, podcasts, appearances, and other places around the state. We have highlighted those for you as they come up, and will continue to do so. 

Our fight is not just at the ballot box, though. One of the most significant challenges we face is the entrenched corruption within the North Carolina State Board of Elections. This body, which should be the guardian of free and fair elections, has instead become a tool for the two major parties to maintain their grip on power. We have seen firsthand how they manipulate rules, obstruct our candidates, and attempt to silence our voices.

But we are not deterred. We are fighting back with all our might. Transparency and accountability are essential for a healthy democracy, and we will not rest until the State Board of Elections is reformed and operates with integrity.

While we have achieved much, there is still a long road ahead. To continue our momentum and to ensure that our candidates can run effective campaigns, we need your support now more than ever. Here are a few ways you can help:

  1. Volunteer: Our campaigns need boots on the ground. Whether it's canvassing, phone banking, or helping with events, your time and effort can make a significant difference.

  2. Donate: Running a campaign requires resources. Your financial contributions, no matter the size, can help us print materials, run advertisements, and support our candidates' efforts to reach voters.

  3. Spread the Word: Talk to your friends, family, and neighbors about our candidates and our message. Social media is a powerful tool – share our posts, engage with our content, and help us reach a broader audience.

  4. Stay Informed: Keep up with our candidates and campaigns. Attend our events, participate in our meetings, and stay engaged with the issues that matter most to our community.

We stand at a pivotal moment in our party's history. The progress we have made is incredible, but there is so much more we can achieve together. The fight for Liberty, justice, and a government that truly serves the people is ongoing, and I am confident that with your continued support, we will overcome any obstacle in our path.

Let's continue to build on our successes, support our remarkable candidates, and push forward in our mission to create a freer, fairer North Carolina. Together, we can and will make a difference.

Thank you for your unwavering dedication and commitment to the Libertarian cause.

-Ryan Brown, LPNC Chair

Upcoming Events

Cape Fear Libertarian Party Annual Freedom Firefest

October 5, 2024 - Save the Date

Check here for updates, full details coming soon

North Carolina State Board of Elections Updates

The Ridiculous Saga of Naked Corruption Continues

by Rob Yates
LPNC Communications Director

Over the past few months, three new parties - the Constitution Party, the Justice For All (JFA) party, and the We The People (WTP) party - collected the required number of signatures to gain recognition and ballot access in North Carolina. The North Carolina State Board of Elections (NCSBE) approved the Constitution Party - ostensibly a right-leaning party, and also the WTP party - which is the party for RFK Jr in North Carolina, while rejecting the JFA party - the party under which Cornell West is running for president.

The NCSBE comprises three Democrats and two Republicans. Under the current rules, the Governor's party gets to pick three of the members. Cooper is, of course, a Democrat. No unaffiliated members are on the NCSBE, despite unaffiliated voters making up the largest block in NC, nor are there any Libertarians or Greens on the NCSBE, the other two parties recognized in NC at the beginning of this year. Our government is loathe to actually resemble the people of North Carolina. 

In fact, just last year, Cooper used the courts to fight an attempt by Republicans to increase the number of members to eight, with four members from each major party. He then fought a lawsuit brought by five unaffiliated voters seeking representation on the board. The "party of democracy" seems to have serious concerns with a government that represents anything but its interests. 

Using the Elections Board and the courts to hoard power is a go-to in the playbook for the North Carolina Democrats. In 2022, the NCSBE tried to keep the Green Party and Senate candidate Matthew Hoh off the ballot, despite their petition having the required number of approved and confirmed signatures. The Green Party candidate was viewed as potentially taking votes from the Democrats, and several people reported receiving harassing phone calls asking them to remove their signatures from the petition.

Publicly, the NCSBE claimed that they were concerned about fraudulent signatures. The courts disagreed, and Matthew Hoh gained ballot access while the NC Dems received a strong rebuke for their meritless legal wrangling. The North Carolina Democrats were even further embarrassed this year, when courts awarded the Green Party damages for the Dems' "frivolous" efforts

History repeats itself, and the NCSBE this year delayed the votes on recognizing parties that might hurt Democrat candidates, this time the JFA and WTP parties. While reports once again surfaced of harassing phone calls targeting people who signed the petition, the board cited fears of fraudulent signatures and alleged that the two parties were circumventing rules surrounding independent candidates on the ballot (the signature threshold is nearly six times higher for an independent candidate than for a new party to be recognized) as the reasons for delaying the vote and eventually denying the JFA party. 

Both this year and in 2022, Democrat super lawyer Marc Elias, known for filing suits all around the country to help Democrats hoard power so aggressively that he was fired by the Biden campaign, and the Elias Law Group were the face and the finance driving the push to prevent competition. This year, Clear Choice Action superPAC brought some out-of-state money to the fight as well. Together, they sent at least five letters to the NCSBE encouraging them to reject the JFA and WTP applications under nearly the exact same imaginary concerns as two years ago. 

After delaying the vote, the NCSBE eventually would approve the Constitution Party and the WTP party, while rejecting the petition from the JFA party. But this saga is far from over.

After the NCSBE rejected their petition, the JFA party filed a federal lawsuit against the board alleging violation of their constitutional rights and seeking ballot access. In a twist straight out of 2022, however, the North Carolina Democrat Party has also filed a lawsuit against the board and against the WTP party, seeking to have RFK removed from the ballot. The actions of the board and the NC Dems have drawn scrutiny and review from the NC General Assembly and from federal lawmakers. The board did not take action on the lawsuits in its most recent meeting.

The first hearing on the JFA's lawsuit was Tuesday. The Libertarian Party of North Carolina (LPNC) has been engaged in this from the beginning, including a letter from our State Chair, Ryan Brown, signed by 22 leaders from six other parties, calling on the NCSBE to recognize all three parties in the name of fairness and representative government. When they rejected the other two parties, we called for the resignation of the three Democrats on the board. That letter and our related press releases are linked below. We will keep you updated as we have more information or further involvement. 

LPNC State Chair Ryan Brown discusses the NCSBE decision on the Pete Kaliner show

Candidate Spotlight

LPNC Council of State Candidate Town Hall (Replay)

---

Michael Barrick- candidate for Caldwell County School Board

I am seeking election to the Caldwell County School Board. I am a Libertarian, which means that I am definitely outnumbered – at least on paper. So, I would have been foolish to pass up an opportunity to mingle with the thousands of people that visited here this past Friday and Saturday for the North Carolina Blackberry Festival.

I had the distinct pleasure of introducing Mike Ross, the Libertarian candidate for North Carolina governor, to many friends, neighbors and visitors uptown. (Mike is a great guy with a solid platform; check it out here).

We had a lovely time. For several hours, I caught up with old friends and Mike introduced himself. Every person was as kind and pleasant as they could be. It didn’t surprise me. I expect it after living here for more than 30 years.

We also encountered dozens of people that said they are fed up with the two major parties. I came away believing – sensing even – that the tide for Libertarians has turned. Now, I will receive votes because I’m a Libertarian, not despite being one.

Long story short: Despite the deep divisions that the media creates through sensationalism, I went home exhilarated. It was one of the most hopeful days I had enjoyed in politics since volunteering for my first campaigns when I was 16-years-old, in 1972. It was a day of kind, thoughtful and peaceful exchanges about political outlooks, families, work – and yes, the state of our nation.

For that, I thank my Caldwell County neighbors.

Read the original article on the Appalachian Chronicle

Reflections on Flag Day

The decision by Associate Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito to fly the American flag upside down over his house on Jan. 17, 2021 (as reported by The New York Times) is not a surprise. It achieved its intended effect – it sent a distinctly partisan message not only to all of the nation, but to the election deniers all the way to the top – he’s with them. The U.S. Flag Code says, "(a) The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property." To fly it as Alito did (I’m not buying the BS about his wife for a moment) is a metaphorical, hysterical act encouraging treason in response to an election that Trump lost fair and square. Alito is not alone though. Almost all MAGA adherents – as well as folks from other political parties and persuasion – show disrespect for the flag and those who have fought and died for it according to the U.S. Code (§ 8. Respect for the flag). As always, thanks for reading and please feel free to share and repost.

Read the full, original article on the Appalachian Chronicle

---

Steven R Feldman, MD, PhD-2024 candidate for U.S. Congress, NC’s 10th Congressional District

Abortion and Reproductive Rights

Work together to create a balanced policy

Abortion or reproductive rights is an issue for which there is no reasonable compromise. The government should—absolutely—not try to control women’s bodies. The government—absolutely—should not condone murder. These two “no compromise is possible” principles are at odds, and some balance must be found.

People on both the pro-Choice and pro-Life sides of this issue should advocate for their positions respectfully and try to understand each other’s point of view. People of good will may disagree as to whether a fetus is a baby. We should recognize and respect the beliefs of people who think that a fetus is or is not a baby. People who want to protect unborn babies do not want to control women’s bodies; they just want to prevent the murder of unborn babies. People who don’t want the government to force every woman to carry every pregnancy to term don’t want to kill babies; they just want women to have control over their bodies.

The government should not be in the business of forcing women to give birth, at all times, in all situations. Nor should a woman be permitted to end her pregnancy (kill her baby) indiscriminately, at all times, for just any reason.

Clearly, we should minimize the number of unwanted pregnancies. Beyond that, there is no position that would fully satisfy the beliefs of all people. A reasonable, balanced compromise policy can include:

  • Government should not fund elective abortions.
  • Medically necessary abortion required to save the life of the mother should not be restricted
  • Making abortion illegal after a certain period of gestation, with proper consideration for the health of the mother, should be left to local community standards to best reflect the heartfelt beliefs of people in those communities.
  • Government should not discourage or otherwise limit speech to peacefully convince others of their respective views.

 

Gun Rights and School Shootings

The best way to reduce violence is to make our culture less violent, not to take guns from law-abiding citizens

I don’t own a gun. I believe having a gun in my home would bring more risks than benefits, but that is only my personal perception. I don’t want to force my preferences on anyone else. The government should NOT take guns away from law-abiding citizens.

We all want to stop school shootings. Claiming that those who don’t want to get rid of guns— or that those who want to protect children by putting more guns in schools — don’t care about children’s lives is counterproductive, insulting, and contributes to our culture of hostility. Everyone wants our children to be safe.

Those of us who think there are too many guns should try to influence others by being role models. The solution starts with our modeling the respectful, peaceful resolution of disputes. Better care for the mentally ill, ending drug violence, creating a less confrontational culture, and ensuring a strong economy with low unemployment may also be more effective ways to address school violence.

Some regulations may be reasonable. For example, some gun enthusiasts argue in favor of restricting gun ownership by severely mentally ill people who would be likely to hurt others. Other gun owners tell me that better enforcement of gun crimes, background checks, waiting periods, and gun safety courses may also be valuable approaches. Gun enthusiasts should be involved in the development of these regulations so that we can maximize the intended benefits and minimize the undesirable secondary effects.

It is also reasonable to have different rules in different states, within the constraints of Constitutional law. This allows each state’s laws to reflect the will of the people in that state.

Bent Toward Justice

Steve Feldman is not just one of our Liberty warrior candidates or an accomplished doctor. He is also an author, and his new book, Bent Toward Justice, is available and getting traction everywhere.

 Purchase Steve's Book Here

County Corner

Is CLT Pride dominated by Democratic Party partisanship?

by Jeff Scott, Candidate for NC State Senate District 40

On August 3, CLT Pride notified both the Libertarian Party and the We The People Party that they rejected the applications to have a booth presence at the annual 2-day uptown Charlotte Pride celebration, August 17 and 18.

It’s no surprise that the Democratic Party-influenced organizers rejected the new party that nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr. & Nicole Shanahan. It is a surprise that they rejected the Libertarian Party. The LP have endorsed rights for gays & lesbians since their founding in the early 70s. LP Meck has had a booth presence since 2012.

Steve DiFiore, the Chair of the Mecklenburg County Libertarian Party, has volunteered at this event EVERY year, other than 2020. This began when he joined the Libertarians in 2016. "It's disappointing. Our presidential candidate, Chase Oliver, is dynamic & thoughtful. Being gay himself, he's very supportive of the LGBTQ+ community and we were looking forward to promoting him this election year at such a prominent event.

"In fact, at a recent fundraiser in South Charlotte, he committed to attending CLT Pride, so folks would have had the opportunity to meet a National Candidate in person. I think the organizers should think twice about turning away a high-profile candidate who's supportive of so many of their issues."

Chase Oliver’s spokesman Steve Dasbach conveyed Chase’s message that, "I am saddened but not surprised that in this hyperventilating political climate, where progressive pride organizers are all in for Harris, that they would stoop to this low means of exclusion."

The Pride festival broke records last year, with reports stating that over 250K attendees partook of music, parades, food, vendors, non-profits & political messaging from the multi-street takeover of Uptown Charlotte in the sweltering heat of mid-August.

Steve DiFiore added that if the organizers are showing their political bias by excluding other parties but letting the NC Democrats have a festival presence, then he will be taking issue with their city festival application, questioning the City Council on the terms of their permits.

Ryan Rabah, Vice Chair of the We The People Party, suggests that CLT Pride organizers, like some of the funders, are rabidly against any third-party presence in North Carolina elections this year. "There are various forms of lawfare being done this election cycle," says Rabah, "but the IRS rules for 501(c)3 organizations are pretty clear in their assertion of a type of fairness doctrine for political viewpoints. I would be curious if CLT Pride also rejected the North Carolina or Mecklenburg Democratic Party as the guardrails for preserving tax status are important to their operation."

Especially with the backdrop of the NCSBE shenanigans trying to keep third parties off the ballot that might threaten the Dems, by all appearances CLT Pride Organizers are running afoul of the rules, with regard to both city permitting & Internal Revenue Service rules for non-profit orgs.

---

CFLP Saving Lives

The Cape Fear Libertarian Party were joined by Governor candidate Mike Ross to give blood and save lives.

Trevor's Takes

Thoughts on the Assassination Attempt on Trump

by Trevor Miles, LPNC

On Saturday, July 13, 2024, we saw a dark moment of American history take place. For the first time since Ronald Regan, a U.S. president was targeted for assassination. Perhaps even more importantly symbolically, he was targeted at a political rally on the campaign trail.

Donald J. Trump, for all his flaws and incorrect political opinions, along with the other individuals killed and injured at the rally on Saturday, were victims of political violence, meant for ends not yet known. The act itself has brought out the best and the worst in American society, with many calling for peace and unity, while others, often those who previously decried political violence, have expressed disappointment at the failure of the attempt. As Libertarians, we should be responding within the context of the non-aggression principle, and condemning the initiation of violence for any means, but especially as a way to effect political change.

Also as Libertarians, we should be using this tragic incident to highlight the dangers of hyper-polarization in American politics, and the threat posed to our democracy when people feel that "the only two options" presented would endanger the American way of life, while also actively campaigning to protect the 2A rights of individuals against the inevitable fallout from the fact that the shooter used an AR-style rifle. Finally, I am calling on all Americans, both Libertarian and non-libertarian, to condemn this act of unnecessary political violence, and to strive toward a future where all Americans can live together in harmony while also disagreeing.

Chase Oliver - Campaign Update

Let's check in with our presidential candidate. Every publication from now until the election we will give you the latest on the Oliver / ter Maat campaign around the country. 

Libertarian ticket polls at 8 percent, jumps over 10 percent in  ranked choice voting scenario.

Seven swing state polls released by Bloomberg News/Morning Consult this week show Chase Oliver ahead of Robert Kennedy Jr. in Pennsylvania, tied in Georgia, and within striking distance in the remaining five. Here are the top-line results:

ULTRAs: The Worst Idea You’ve Never Heard Of

by Dr. Mike Munger
Duke Professor of Political Science, former LPNC Governor Candidate, and current LPNC Candidate

Read the full article on the American Institute for Economic Research

We seem to be moving towards a wealth tax. At least, there is a growing consensus on one side of the political spectrum that a wealth tax is "needed" — politician-speak for "bad idea that I want to do anyway."

Interestingly, the need for a wealth tax is not primarily the need for revenue, a way to reduce the exploding deficit. That would at least have some tenuous connection to reality, though it would still be a bad idea. The argument for a wealth tax is fairness; as far back as 2008, candidate Barack Obama famously said the quiet part out loud, and strongly advocated for increased taxes on capital gains, even if it explicitly meant that tax revenues declined.

I have written before about some of the reasons that wealth taxes are a problem. The notion of "social justice," and the unique position of the state as controller of coercion, are somehow supposed to justify theft of accumulated savings, even after the owner of the wealth paid his or her taxes on the income. The logic is eternal: "You have something left over? Give us some! And next year, too, until you have nothing."

The difference between an income tax, or consumption/transactions tax, and a wealth tax, is important. The first two are taxes on what economists call flows, activities that are defined over a time period. Income, or consumption spending, is a movement of value, and taxing those movements (flows) is a way of collecting revenue from the working of the system.

Wealth is different, because wealth is the accumulation of income I already paid taxes on...

Article continues on the AIER website.

Mike Munger is a Professor of Political Science, and Director of the PPE Certificate Program, at Duke University. Munger's most recent book, The Sharing Economy, was published in 2021 by the Institute for Economic Affairs.

Mises Club Carolinas

Sugar Mountain Event - August 9-11

The Mises Club Carolinas, affiliated with the Mises Institute, is united by the principles of Austrian economics. Not just a club, they're catalysts for market-led solutions. Be the movement, Lead the Change!

While writing this my thermometer reads 97F in the hazy, hot and humid summer of Seven Lakes, North Carolina. But it's a delightful 79F in Sugar Mountain, where we hope to see you and your family on August 9-11.

As in 2023, your organizers are striving to make this a low-cost, fact- and fun-filled event in a great part of the Carolinas. Treat yourself and your family to an end-of-summer weekend with your Austrian friends in the cool Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina! (Details on meals is coming soon!)

The cost to our club for the three-day use of the world-class Sugar Mountain Resort venue is $2000, a reasonable charge compared to other private event centers and not much more than the fee charged us for two days in a smaller room last year. (Mises Club member Bob Luddy generously covered the fee for us in 2023.)

All donations to defray these costs would be appreciated.

Register now by sending an email to [email protected] with the number in your party.

Paul Cwik, Professor of Economics at the University of Mount Olive, has kindly offered to lead a Mises Book Club discussion at the nearby Grandfather Vineyard and Winery at lunch time on Saturday, August 10th. We'll discuss Ludwig von Mises' booklet from 1979, "Economic Policy," also known as the "Six Lessons" mentioned recently by Brazilian wrestler Renato Moicano. It may be read online at this link, or purchased from the Mises Bookstore for a mere $8, a real bargain. It is a small booklet of about 100 pages, and can be read in a few hours. If you plan on joining us, please start reading now!

The Best Western Mountain Lodge at Banner Elk has kindly extended a discount to attendees of our event on August 9-11. The Lodge is only a few minutes away from the Sugar Mountain Resort, and is a pet-friendly hotel. Contact Shannon at (828) 898-4571 and ask for the rate for their "Carolina Mises" block of rooms. Only a few rooms remain available on a First-Come-First Serve Basis.

A few questions have arisen we'd like to address:

Q - What is the fee to attend?
A - Nothing. The only cost is for what you consume at meals during the event.

Q - Where is the lodging?
A - That is up to attendees to decide. Many options abound, see links to accommodations in the event details below.

Q - What will be served at meals?
A - We are working on this now and hope people will be pleased with the menu and the cost.

Q - Must participants pay for all meals?
A - If you do not like what is being served, bring your own. If you can only attend part of the event, that is fine, also. Meal tickets will be sold online prior to the event as last year.

Q - Is camping available?
A - Yes, at many area campgrounds, from backpack tent camping to RV camping with all the frills. Search online for what suits you best, and see the links to accommodations in the event details below.

Q - May my children attend with me?
A - Absolutely! But they may be bored during some of the talks. Just outside the meeting room door however is an entire mountain to explore, the base of the ski slopes with many hiking paths. Bring some outdoor toys (Frisbees, balls, gliders, etc.) to share with other young Miseseans.

Q - May we use the facilities at Wildcat Lake?
A - Yes. Part of the Lees-McRae campus, Wildcat Lake features a sandy beach ideal for small children, canoes for paddling, a fishing pier, a nice playground, and picnic tables. It is located only a few minutes away from the Sugar Mountain Resort where we'll be meeting. There is no cost to Mises Club members for use of Wildcat Lake.

Q - How can I sign up for the Saturday tour of the May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center?
A - Details on the time and group size for this are still being worked out with the center's director, Nina Fischesser. Stay tuned for details.

Q - Can I bring my mountain bike?
A - Sure! The nearby Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk has a nationally-ranked cycling program for both road racing and mountain biking. Mountain bike trails may be found in the area. Sugar Mountain holds mountain biking events throughout the year and even has bikes for rent. You can even take your bike up to the top of the mountain on the chair lift and then let gravity bring you back down.

Q - I have never been to Sugar Mountain. How far away are area attractions?
A - The simple map shown here provides some answers. Nearly everything is within a half hour of Sugar Mountain, from Linville Falls to Boone.

Q - Won't this event conflict with Mises University or College Move-in at Lees-McRae or ASU?
A - No! This date was chosen to avoid conflicts with both Mises U (July 28th - August 3rd) and college move-in (the week after Sugar Mountain).

Q - What is the weather like in early August in Sugar Mountain?
A - Splendid. Air conditioners are rare up there, for a good reason. Bring a sweater for the cool nights, ideal for star-gazing.

Register now by sending an email to [email protected] with the number in your party.

Liberty Babes

Liberty Babes (@LibertyBabesX) is using the power of AI to create Liberty warriors and spread freedom messaging. Now, with Tar Heel exclusives:

"Life is the grand stage, and in the pursuit of our desires and aspirations, we become the lead actors, unapologetically seizing every moment to shape our own narratives and define our existence." - @LibertyBabesX

The History of Sound Money in North Carolina

Written by AI, and checked and updated by Joshua Glawson, LPNC Strategic Communications Adviser

Watch the video: The History of Gold in North Carolina

North Carolina has a profound and storied history with gold and sound money, a legacy that has influenced its economic policies and cultural heritage.

This history is punctuated by the first gold rush in North America, the pioneering Bechtler Mint, and the establishment of the Charlotte Mint.

To fully appreciate this rich past, it's essential to understand what sound money is and its relevance to North Carolina's economic development.

What is Sound Money?

According to Jp Cortez of the Sound Money Defense League, sound money refers to a currency that maintains its value over time and is not subject to significant fluctuations in purchasing power. This stability is achieved by tying the currency's value to a physical commodity, such as gold or silver, which has historical value.

Sound money is considered trustworthy and reliable because it is less susceptible to inflation and government manipulation compared to fiat money, which has no true historical value and is subject to changes in value based on governmental policies and economic conditions.

Early Gold Discoveries and the First Gold Rush

North Carolina's association with sound money began with the first gold rush in North America. In 1799, Conrad Reed, a 12-year-old boy, discovered a 17-pound gold nugget in Cabarrus County. This discovery set off a gold rush that spread through several counties, including Cabarrus, Mecklenburg, and Union. By the early 1800s, gold mining had become a significant industry in North Carolina, second only to agriculture.

The gold rush not only brought wealth to the state but also highlighted the need for a reliable and stable form of currency. This need was partially met by the establishment of private mints, which played a crucial role in the production of sound money.

The Bechtler Mint: A Pioneer of Sound Money

One of the most notable contributions to sound money in North Carolina came from the Bechtler Mint. Christopher Bechtler, a German immigrant, established a private mint in Rutherfordton in 1831. The Bechtler Mint was revolutionary because it produced the first gold dollar coins in the United States, 18 years before the U.S. Mint began producing them.

The Bechtler Mint was instrumental in providing a local and reliable source of gold coinage, which helped maintain economic stability in the region. By offering a trusted and convenient way to convert gold into coins, the Bechtler Mint ensured that gold miners and traders could engage in commerce without the risks and delays associated with transporting gold to the Philadelphia Mint.

The Charlotte Mint: Federal Recognition of North Carolina’s Gold

The success of the Bechtler Mint and the thriving gold mining industry in North Carolina prompted the U.S. government to establish a branch of the U.S. Mint in Charlotte in 1835. The Charlotte Mint exclusively produced gold coins until its closure at the onset of the Civil War in 1861. This federal recognition underscored North Carolina’s importance in the national gold market and its role in promoting sound money.

Joshua D. Glawson and Sound Money in North Carolina

Joshua D. Glawson, a writer of economics, politics, philosophy, and more, has extensively covered the concept of sound money and its historical context in North Carolina. Glawson emphasizes that sound money is crucial for economic stability and prosperity. He argues that North Carolina's early adoption of gold-backed currency and private mints like the Bechtler Mint exemplifies the benefits of a sound money system.

In his writings, Glawson points out that sound money policies helped North Carolina maintain economic stability and foster growth during the 19th century. He also highlights the importance of returning to principles of sound money in modern economic policy to avoid the pitfalls of inflation and currency devaluation that plague fiat money systems.

Conclusion

North Carolina's history with sound money is a testament to the state's innovative and forward-thinking approach to economic stability

From the first gold rush to the pioneering efforts of the Bechtler Mint and the establishment of the Charlotte Mint, North Carolina has played a significant role in promoting sound money principles.

Today, the insights of economists like Joshua D. Glawson remind us of the importance of these principles in ensuring long-term economic prosperity and stability.

*Editor's Note: Article originally posted here on LinkedIn

LP in NC

Help Wanted

The LPNC is seeking passionate and dedicated volunteers to join our team and play pivotal roles in advancing the cause of Liberty across North Carolina. Currently, we are hiring a paid intern for the Communications team   

We're seeking a dynamic and motivated Communications Intern to join our team. Are you passionate about liberty, individual rights, and free-market principles? This paid internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the world of libertarian advocacy. 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Assist in creating and distributing compelling content across various platforms. 
  • Support media outreach efforts and cultivate relationships with journalists. 
  • Assist with production and editing of newsletters, press releases, emails campaigns, regular outreach, and podcast.   
  • Help manage our social media presence and engage with our community. 
  • Conduct research on current events and Libertarian policy issues. 
  • Collaborate with our team on special projects and campaigns. 

Qualifications: 

  • Strong writing and communication skills. 
  • Familiarity with Libertarian principles and a passion for promoting them. 
  • Proactive, detail-oriented, and able to work independently. 
  • Experience with social media and digital marketing is a plus. 

What We Offer: 

  • Competitive pay and flexible hours. 
  • Opportunity to work with a passionate and dedicated team.
  • Valuable experience in advocacy, communications, and policy research. 
  • Networking opportunities within the North Carolina Libertarian and political community.

Apply now and help us advance the cause of liberty! Send your resume and a brief cover letter explaining your interest to [email protected]

Additionally, the Communications team is seeking content submissions and regular writers, artists, editors, and support staff for the newsletter, the podcast, and several other ambitious plans for 2024. We can use an hour a week, or 40; as long as you are fighting for Liberty there is a place to make your voice heard. We can't do it without you!

To learn more about these positions and other exciting volunteer opportunities, please visit our staff page at https://www.lpnc.org/staff. Your involvement can make a significant impact on the success of the LPNC, and we welcome individuals with diverse skills and backgrounds to join us in championing liberty in North Carolina.

Take the next step in your commitment to liberty by becoming a vital part of the LPNC team. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!

If you are interested in filling one of these positions, please email why you would be a good fit to Ryan Brown at [email protected].

Remember to Check Out Our Store

Check out the latest LPNC merch to get ready for summer weather!

The LPNC store has it all, from clothes and hats, to buttons and stickers, tumblers, mugs, glasses, and more. Stop in and grab something!

Meme of the Week

By Stephen Sumner, LPNC Judiciary Committee

 

Liberty iNC

Your source for all things Liberty in our great Tar Heel state. 

Your rights, all the time. Nothing more, nothing less, no exceptions. Simple as that.

Season 4 is in full swing, and we have had some great guests so far, including:

Plus, Dub Dub and Groo talk sports!

If you want to assist with the show, be a guest, suggest a guest, or have any other comments or feedback, please, reach out to [email protected].

Book Review

Manipulated, by Theresa Payton

Review by Rob Yates, LPNC Communications Director

ubman

Manipulated dives into the dark corners of cyber warfare, revealing how state actors, hacktivists, and cybercriminals exploit weaknesses in digital infrastructures to influence public opinion and manipulate democratic processes. Payton's narrative is both alarming and enlightening, as she dissects various high-profile incidents of cyber interference and lays bare the strategies used by malicious entities to distort the truth.

Payton meticulously details how foreign adversaries have targeted not only the machinery of elections but also the minds of voters. By spreading disinformation and exploiting social media platforms, these actors aim to sow discord and erode trust in democratic institutions. Payton's analysis of the 2016 and 2020 U.S. presidential elections provides concrete examples of these tactics in action.

Payton excels in explaining the mechanisms of disinformation campaigns. She breaks down the methods used to create and disseminate false narratives, from deepfakes to bot armies, and highlights the psychological principles that make these tactics so effective. Her discussion on the role of social media algorithms in amplifying disinformation is particularly compelling, as it sheds light on how seemingly neutral technologies can be co-opted for nefarious purposes.

Manipulated is not just a tale of doom and gloom; it also offers practical solutions. Payton outlines comprehensive strategies for safeguarding electoral integrity and combating disinformation. She advocates for a multi-faceted approach that includes technological defenses, regulatory reforms, and public education. Her emphasis on the need for greater transparency and accountability from tech companies is especially pertinent.

One of the strongest parts of the book is when Payton interviews an anonymous person who was behind much of the narrative driving in the 2016 election. Her questions were poignant, and the answers were equal parts illuminating and terrifying.

Purchase here

Support Your Fellow Libertarians

Port City Firearms

Our very own Justin Hinckley, 2A Issues Coordinator, has opened an online store, and you don't want to miss it!

Port City Firearms and Training 

---

Non Crappy Crafts

Angela Humphries is a free-spirited watercolor artist who lives by the calm, colorful waters of New Bern, North Carolina. With her loose, expressive strokes, she works to impress the magic of flora and fauna onto her canvases. Her lighthearted, whimsical mark making, infused with the inspiration of her surroundings, invites admirers to walk in nature to enjoy it’s beauty and magnificence.

Angela is a member of the North Carolina Watercolor Society and enjoys working in the privacy of her small home studio. She shares more of her work in the digital realm on her greeting card creations. Her work may be discovered in New Bern, NC at the local Bank of the Arts Gallery, as well as the Nautical Star Coffee Shop and finally her online store via Etsy.

Angela's Etsy shop

---

Dr. Dan's Freedom Forum Radio

"The right to own private property that cannot be arbitrarily regulated or confiscated by the government is the moral and constitutional basis for individual freedom"

Listen Live: Freedom Forum Radio 

Podcast: Freedom Forum Radio Podcast Index 

---

Libertarian Owned, Heritage Breed Pastured Pork

Nothing says "Freedom" like a freezer full of quality meat! Fox Knob Farm near Elkin, NC raises heritage breed pastured pork the old-fashioned way, no medications, and nothing toxic. Reserve your whole or half pork share today and select how you'd like your pork custom processed. If you haven't started building your locally-sourced food network yet, we can help get you started! Learn more at foxknobfarm.com and contact us at [email protected].

 

---

Whiskey and Wisdom Podcast

Check out New Hanover Affiliate member Tyler Yaw and his co-host Chris Kellum in their exploration of the world, its people, and its spirits. They smartly and succinctly cover a truly eclectic array of engaging topics, all while enjoying the quintessential American libation.

Discussing life's most fascinating topics over a good glass of whiskey.

Managing Editor - Rob Yates, LPNC Communications Director

Staff Writer - Joshua D. Glawson, LPNC Strategic Communications Adviser

2A Editor - Justin Hinckley, LPNC Second Amendment Issues Coordinator

See the source imageSee the source image