When these libertarians vote, they overwhelmingly vote Republican -- but not reliably. According to the study, about 72% of libertarians voted for George Bush in 2000 versus 20% for Al Gore, but only 59% voted for Bush in 2004 versus 38% for John Kerry. That’s a big swing, a much larger swing than one would expect from other voting blocs.

          Why? And who are these libertarians anyway? Where did they come from? What do they believe? What does their emergence portend for the GOP?

RLCer Philip Blumel often uses the two-dimensional 'Nolan chart' as an aide in explaining the libertarian philosophy to Republican Party activists

          These are questions that RLCer Philip Blumel is helping GOP groups answer with his talk, "What is libertarianism?," that he has presented to Republican clubs around Florida, including those in Delray Beach, Fort Myers, Palm Beach, Miami Beach, St. Augustine and Orlando.

          Interest in this subject has exploded since the emergence of Ron Paul's campaign for president in 2007.  On Jan. 10 in Miami, Blumel introduced these ideas -- and the RLC -- to supporters of Dr. Paul at his Miami campaign office, 5760 SW 8th Street.

          In his presentation, Blumel looks at libertarianism from three angles (historical, philosophical and political), identifies the most prominent individuals and institutions of the modern libertarian movement and discusses the role the libertarian minority plays in the GOP currently – and could play in the future.

          If you would like Blumel to make a presentation at your local GOP club, please call 561-254-8458.

          Providing educational speakers to GOP clubs is a ongoing project of the Florida RLC. For other RLC speakers available to your club, click here.