The Allen County, Indiana's Libertarian Party Chairman: Mike Sylvester

Mike Sylvester is the Chairman of the Allen County Libertarian Party in Indiana. He originated the party in the county and has held the seat for the past two years. Here is his background:

Sylvester was born in Muncie, Indiana. His family moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana. As an adult he left the city for a period of 11 years, and spent some of that time on a nuclear submarine in Hawaii. He is married to Karena, who is a practicing CPA in Fort Wayne. They are the parents of Kayla, five and Graydon, three. Mike has become a well-known member of the political community in Fort Wayne. He writes letters to the editor, runs his own blog, and appears on local radio and television programs. His immediate goal is to become a CPA in the next year. He has also just announced that he will be stepping down as Chair of the Libertarian Party this year. Here are his ideas on the issues that face the future of the party, Fort Wayne, and the national scene.

ABS) - What do you think was an event or events that propelled your entrance into local politics?

MS) -) I was frustrated with the direction our county was taking. Local is easier to deal with than national. It was easier to get involved.

ABS) - If you could implement a policy that you believed would make a significant change in Fort Wayne, what would it be? And how would you go about it?

MS) - We need to educate the voters about the economic future our country and future generations face. I went about it by starting a 3rd political party in Allen County and being its "Chair"

ABS) - What do you think the purpose of a third party could be in politics? What are the chances of a third party thriving in the climate of today's politics?

MS) - 3rd parties often act as spoilers. Worst than I thought 2 yrs ago. Few people are willing to vote third party.

ABS) You are not a Fort Wayne native. Given that, what kind of influences has led to your interest in politics? Family? Educational?

MS) - My kids are the reason I am got involved in politics. Education has not influenced my decision at all.

ABS) What three issues do you think are of paramount importance in Indiana at this time?

MS) - Making Indiana attractive to business. Fixing our educational system. Focusing on what we do well, rather than trying to be like other states.

ABS) - I know it's early, but who do you think will be the candidates for President in the 2008 election?

MS) - Obama, McCain, Philles

Mike Sylvester wanted to educate the voters about the economic realities of our country. He set out to start a third party in Fort Wayne, Indiana and became its chairman. He also began writing letters to the editor and appearing on a multitude of radio and television programs. Mike also became known to the local community. He is now on a first name basis with Steve Shine, Republican Chair of the Allen County Republican Party and Kevin Knuth, Chair of Democratic Party in Allen County. He has organized a community of like-minded individuals who now have a yearly convention. These individuals also share many other interests, such as the peace movement in Fort Wayne. Because of Sylvester, Allen County is now connected to a statewide and national third political party that gives a significant voice to people who strongly believe in small government and are not for sale. Interesting concept, don't you think?