The full text of the motion can be found at:
https://groups.google.com/g/lnc-public/c/gfefLjKqRMc/m/UIIhh44_AAAJ
A censure is a formal, public reprimand or expression of strong disapproval, typically adopted by a legislative body in response to misconduct that does not rise to the level of expulsion. In this case, a censure of the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire (LPNH) signals to the public that the offensive remarks issued by LPNH do not reflect the Libertarian Party as a whole, but are limited to that particular affiliate. In effect, this serves as a strong distancing from the positions taken by LPNH. It also provides other state affiliates with the ability to point to the censure as clear evidence that LPNH’s statements are not representative of their own organizations or of the national party. Importantly, a censure does not force disaffiliation, nor does it compel LPNH to alter its expressed views, the affiliate retains its own agency.
In preparation, I have reached out to numerous state chairs to gather a broad spectrum of perspectives. Their views generally fall into several categories.
- In favor of censure: Some believe censure is the appropriate step, while others argue it does not go far enough and that disaffiliation is warranted. These states tend to feel directly harmed by LPNH’s rhetoric, particularly in terms of reputational loss and fundraising challenges.
- Neutral: These affiliates regard the matter as largely irrelevant, viewing censure as a distraction or waste of time, and reporting little to no damage from LPNH’s actions.
- Opposed: Opposition comes from three directions. Some see censure as a chilling effect on speech and equate it with censorship. Others are sympathetic to LPNH’s positions and oppose rebuke altogether. Finally, there are those who, paradoxically, reject censure not because it goes too far, but because it does not go far enough, they prefer outright disaffiliation instead.
The points I find most persuasive are these:
- LPNH’s statements do not represent the Libertarian Party and the LNC is exercising its first amendment right to strongly disagree with the message.
- Those statements have materially harmed the fundraising and electoral efforts of some state affiliates.
- Censure does not strip LPNH of its independence, it may choose how to respond, and I hope it does so in a way that best serves all involved.
For these reasons, I will vote yes on the motion to censure. I want to stress that this is not a personal condemnation of any individual, including any member of this committee. Our focus should remain on the true adversary, the state, which infringes on liberty every day. Let us work together toward advancing liberty without rhetoric that clouds our message or distracts from our cause.