National Chairman's Letter

September 2000

Dear Members and Friends of the Independent American Party,

A number of years ago, I ran for US Senate on the American Party ticket. The incumbent was stepping down, and the race was between a moderate Republican, a liberal Democrat, and myself. As the election drew near, media polls indicated that I might play the spoiler role and throw the election to the Democrat. I began receiving calls from leaders in the conservative community urging (even pressuring) me to withdraw. The Republican candidate's campaign manager paid a personal visit to my home. The candidate's wife phoned me the morning before the election. I gave the matter prayerful consideration, then refused to drop out. As it turned out, the Republican won with 50% of the vote, I got 6% and the Democrat got 44%. I won a moral victory by remaining in the race.

Chances are we may have similar scenarios in one or more races this year where we have an Independent American Party candidate. There may be pressure from the Republican camp and the conservative community. My advice to those candidates is to stick to their guns, fight the moral battle for principle, and seek the long-term victory for freedom. America does not seem to win when we concern ourselves with the short-term shuffling of Democrats and Republicans in office.

Regarding the presidential race, I was recently asked: "Do you think a third party candidate can win? I see the same thing happening as did when Perot took votes from Bush, we ended up with Clinton. Isn't that a realistic fear?"

I replied: "In terms of freedom and America's future, I doubt it will make much difference whether Bush or Gore wins. Bush may seem more palatable to conservatives, but with either candidate (or major party), we will still continue on the same path toward socialism and world government.

"It may not be realistic that a third party presidential candidate can win in 2000. Nader will take votes from Gore and Buchanan will take votes from Bush, so things will probably balance out. Having an IAP presidential candidate, Howard Phillips, on the ballot, even though most expect him not to win, will still help lesser IAP candidates who have a chance to win."

By the way, regarding the chances of any of our candidates, I like the motto of the Independent American Party of Nevada: "Be realistic, expect a miracle!" When the time is right, if we do our part and the nation is sufficiently righteous, there will be victory for freedom and America.

Yours for Freedom!

Bruce Bangerter
IAP National Chairman