Libertarians are mounting a formidable offense

By Gus Pearcy

Senior Staff Writer

PITTSBORO -- It may not be true, but it is probably safe to say that Hendricks County hasn't had much use for candidate nights past May. An almost unanimous majority of county Republicans have usually been assured a November victory. But shifts in demographics and the simple increase in population has seen renewed efforts by "marginal" parties to find someone to challenge the Republican stronghold.

Hendricks County Republicans are beginning to see their territory encroached upon. The latest attacker is the Libertarian Party of Hendricks County.

Two Libertarian candidates have filed for county offices. LPHC Chairman Dennis Derrick is running for County Council District 1. His brother, Dan, is running for County Commissioner, also in District 1.

When we (ran) two years ago, we were just wanting to say we're here," Dan said.

This time it's different, he says. Incumbent commissioner JD Clampitt lost to Sonya Cleveland in the Republican primary. Dan says he sees that seat as open, which may make it easier to be elected.

"The big issue that the Libertarians want to bring is the fact that we need a more open government," Dan said. "My research suggests that there is still a lot that gets done without anyone noticing it."

Qualitech is an example of how county officials did not "check with anybody," Dan said.

"It is not an elected official's business to risk taxpayer money," Dan said.

Libertarians have always been in favor of less government. The Derrick brothers say that's what attracted them to the party in the first place.

"I believe that individuals should have the opportunity to live their own lives, make their own decisions as long as we're not infringing on anyone else's freedom," Dan said. "As a family, we've all held these ideas for years and years. I guess it was about eight years ago that we said, 'Oh, the Libertarians? Wow, there's a whole party that believes this way?'"

Because of the more than 2 percent showing in the last governor's race, Indiana now recognizes the Libertarians as a legitimate party that does not have to collect petitions or signatures in order to be listed on a ballot.

The number of Libertarians in Hendricks County fluctuates constantly, Dan said. While not giving a specific number, he says there are "several dozens."

He says his political budget will be around $6,000 and that he plans to use that money in unique ways. Dan adds that he would also like to engage Cleveland and a possible Democratic suitor in a number of debates.

The party is always looking for interested candidates, Dan said.

"Anyone who wishes to become a Libertarian candidate can get direct approval from the county chair," Dan said. "We do we have time (to get candidates registered) but the law was changed last year and moved up to June 30."

For more information about the Libertarian Party of Hendricks County, log on to www.lphc.org or call party chairperson Dennis Derrick at 745-1182.

gus.pearcy@flyergroup.com