Former two-term Governor of New Mexico Gary Johnson is again seeking the Libertarian Party's nomination for President of the United States. And while Johnson has polled as high as 11% in multiple polls against Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, he faces tougher competition for the LP nomination than he did four years ago with nationally-known entrepreneur John McAfee, Austin Petersen, Darryl Perry, Kevin McCormick and others in the race.
"It looks OK, but like I say, anything can change. You've got a final debate tonight and I might bite my tongue in half," said Governor Johnson of his chances.
Should Johnson win the nomination, he faces an even tougher challenge in doing what Rand Paul couldn't do in the Republican primaries: win over an angry electorate with a reasonable libertarian message.
"When I'm constantly asked about Rand Paul, and why Rand Paul did not succeed, when he's a libertarian, the response is, well, he's not a libertarian. He's a Republican. So, I think these issues will resonate by the time the general election rolls around, and people will really be concerned about issues and not hair," said Johnson.
"And if it is hair, I haven't had a drink in twenty-nine years, but if it's hair, I might have a drink, I don't know, champagne to celebrate," quipped Johnson, apparently referring to The Donald's infamous coiffure.
Despite the perception that libertarianism is subset of conservatism, Johnson believes he can appeal to voters across the political spectrum because of the areas of agreement libertarians have with liberals and independents on issues such as ending military interventions, gay rights and legalization of marijuana.
Johnson called Democratic frontrunner Hillary Clinton "a major architect of the conflict going on around the world," referring to her work as Secretary of State, adding "I think that resonates with Democrats."
The entire interview with Johnson can be viewed below. More information about Johnson's campaign can be found at garyjohnson2016.com.
The final debate before the delegates vote for the nomination is tonight (Saturday May 28) at 8:00 PM EDT and will be carried live on CSPAN and several other media outlets.
Tom Mullen is the author of Where Do Conservatives and Liberals Come From? And What Ever Happened to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness?