Much of this article has been taken from an article with the same title written by Harry Browne, Libertarian candidate for President, and dated December 16, 1999

Many people say that since I have no experience in politics, that I am not qualified for the office of Governor. They think that I will be unable to run the state of Montana.

They are right! Unlike Judy Martz or Mark O'keefe, who both think they can run the state, I don't believe that I can. I don't believe I can run your life. I don't believe I can know how much you should put aside for your retirement. I don't know what school your kids should attend. I don't know what kind of life style you should live. And, I don't know what wage you should accept for the work you want to do.

Nor do I believe that either Martz or O'keefe know or can determine these things either. America was founded on the principle that you are a sovereign individual, capable of deciding what to do with your life – how to spend the money you earn, how to raise your own children. The Founding Fathers would be astounded at the idea that the politicians should run your life, the economy, the state of Montana, or the country.

But today virtually every politician presumes to know what's best for everyone. As a result, unless you're way below average, at least 47 percent of everything you earn is taxed and spent by federal, state and local governments. And you must choose among candidates who actually are arguing over whether the government's share of your earnings should go up to 48 percent or down to 46 percent.

But this year you finally have a real choice. I have a different attitude. I want to make the state government so small that we don't need an income tax at all – and we don't need to replace it with a sales tax or any other kind of tax. Mark O'keefe makes no promise to reduce taxes. As a matter of fact the programs he is proposing will increase taxes. Judy Martz says she wants to reduce taxes and if it means smaller government, so be it! I make no apology. And, my approach is quite different. I will reduce government until we need no taxes. If the Libertarian candidate for President, Harry Browne is elected, he will do the same at the national level. Then you could keep every dollar you earned – to save it, or give it away as you think best, not as the politicians decide. That was the way it used to be not too many years ago.

Harry Browne would also eliminate the Social Security tax – so you can use that money for a true secure retirement that suits you, not the politicians.

I want you to be able to live in a safe city and a safe neighborhood – free from criminal black markets and drive-by shootings that are fueled by the politicians' great moral crusade to make Montana a drug-free zone.

In short, I believe you should decide for yourself what to do with the money you earn. I believe you're the one to decide how to raise your children. And I believe you know best how to live your own life. I don't want to deteriorate the family bond by taking responsibilities away from you and your family.

I don't believe in vouchers or medical savings accounts. I don't believe in taking your money and giving it to special interest groups of my choice. I don't believe in politicians making decisions about your life.

I believe in you.