Normally each month I host a members a members meeting on the first Tuesday at 9 PM EDT. Where you can ask me anything at: https://retinue.live/pauldarrama. The next one is scheduled for August 5th at 9 PM EDT.
If you would like to join or renew your membership please do so at: Join the LP
 
Meetings and Email Ballots
Normally I would place my explanation of votes. So much has happened the past month it’s better to do in person. Please attend my members meeting on August 5th at 9pm EDT to ask me anything about the votes the past month and the ones to come prior.
There are two LNC meetings coming up with one just prior to my members meeting.
Notice of Special LNC E-Meeting August 3, 2025 at 7pm Easternhttps://groups.google.com/g/lnc-public/c/M8IsIIvI5XM
Notice of Special LNC E-Meeting August 10, 2025 at 7pm Easternhttps://groups.google.com/g/lnc-public/c/sHqHo6oewmA
 
Membership growth contest
We’re currently finalizing the details, but a nationwide membership growth contest is planned for all state affiliates, running through October 31st. For those unfamiliar, that date is when national membership totals are used to determine delegate allocations for the upcoming National Convention. This makes it an important opportunity for each state to grow its membership and strengthen its convention representation.
We’re also considering additional incentives—similar to those offered in past years—such as preferred seating or booth space at the convention. If incentives like these would help motivate your state affiliate, please email me at pa*******@**.org to share your thoughts.
 
2028 Convention dates?
The dates for the 2028 Libertarian National Convention have been a key topic of discussion within the LNC. We’ve reached out to state chairs for input, as one option currently under consideration is Presidents Day weekend in late February, which may better align with ballot access requirements.
If you are a state chair, we encourage you to email us with any concerns or recommendations regarding the best timing for your state. Your feedback is important in helping us make an informed decision.
 
If you happen to be in the San Antonio, Texas area tomorrow Wednesday July 23rd you can meet me at our monthly social.
 
Upcoming state conventions:
4th Weekend of JulyCalifornia
1st Weekend of AugustHawaii
For those that missed me, I was in Port Huron this past week meeting members at the Michigan convention and streaming the meeting there.
 
Membership Report
May and Junehttps://groups.google.com/g/lnc-public/c/oH135NkTZhY
 
State of the Libertarian Party
A little over three years ago, following the events of May 2022, I began closely examining our membership and fundraising trends. What I saw concerned me. Despite a few short-term measures that temporarily masked the problem, it was clear that we were facing a steady decline in both donors and members. Recognizing this, I urged my own state affiliate to prepare—to become strong and self-sufficient in case the national party could no longer provide the support we once relied on.
That preparation was not in vain. We are now living in the reality I feared, and it’s more important than ever that we reverse these trends. If the Libertarian Party is to survive and thrive, we must rebuild—starting with growing our membership and increasing fundraising. Without these, the party cannot move beyond its current depleted state.This is not the time to sit back and hope things improve on their own. If we want a future for this party, we must act decisively. In my view, three pillars will serve as the foundation for rebuilding and advancing our mission:
1. MembershipMembership is the lifeblood of our movement. Growing our ranks strengthens our pool of donors, volunteers, and activists. It’s how we build momentum and credibility. Project Archimedes, now being relaunched, aims to jumpstart this growth. We also continue to engage in traditional outreach efforts, including the membership contest I referenced earlier. Every new or returning member brings us closer to our goals.
2. CandidatesOur principles come to life through our candidates. When Libertarians run for office, they put our ideas into action. But candidates don’t succeed in a vacuum—they need a strong base of members and donors behind them. As they succeed, they bring visibility and legitimacy to the party, which, in turn, attracts even more members. It’s a virtuous cycle.
3. Political ActionUltimately, our candidates and elected officials serve to advance liberty through concrete political action—whether by being elected to office or by influencing local and state legislation. This includes repealing unjust laws, reducing tax burdens, and expanding human freedom and dignity. Every success builds credibility and encourages more people to join and contribute.
The current situation may seem bleak, but I believe it is also an opportunity. This is our moment to roll up our sleeves and rebuild—together. Let us renew our commitment, reach out to former members, and welcome new ones. The future of the Libertarian Party depends on each of us.
You are the key to our resurgence. Let’s grow this movement—together.
 
If you have read this far you might also like reading a few of my blog posts:
This Memorial Day, Let’s Honor the Fallen by Ending Their Wars: Repeal the 1957, 1991, 2001, and 2002 AUMFs
Being a Man the Lord’s Way (Faith based blog post)

The opinions shared here do not necessarily represent the official position of the Libertarian Party. These editorial articles have been submitted by Libertarians across the country, and featuring these topics does not represent an endorsement of the content therein.