"The greatest threat facing gay people worldwide is the spread of radical anti-gay Islam. Unfortunately, Tom Campbell's record makes it clear he either doesn't understand that or is unwilling to confront it." -- Jimmy LaSalvia, Exec. Dir. GOPProud

From Eric Dondero:

We're generally not in the business of endorsements here at Libertarian Republican. That's the job of the Republican Liberty Caucus. And as members of the RLC we back 99% of all the candidates Dave Nalle, and the RLC Board endorse.

Though, no official endorsements have been made, it's safe to say that the vast majority of Libertarian Republicans are backing Chuck DeVore. Honestly Chuck's behind. Tom Campbell of Carly Fiornia? That's a decision for all Libertarian Republicans to make on their own. I would lean strongly towards Fiorna, for the simple fact that's she's female. Plus, she seems to me to be a risk-taker, and most certainly a great promoter of free enterprise.

Our readers should be made aware, that we here at Libertarian Republican have been contacted repeatedly by Campbell supporters (who could be connected officially with his campaign?)trying to convince us that he's a "libertarian." Unfortunately, the communications from their camp has led me to believe they are unaware that Libertarian Republian represents a decidedly Pro-Defense/Anti-Islamist view. In my view, they may have mistaken us for the Ron Paul wing.

The following information should serve to help at least Pro-Defense Libertarians to make a decision. Jimmy LaSalvia is well-trusted. His organization represents a Hard Right version of the Log Cabin Clubs. It's safe to say that we agree with Jimmy and GOPProud on virtually all issues. His view on Campbell expressed in this press release should carry a great deal of weight with readers of this website, and with the overall Libertarian Republican community.

From GOPProud.org:

(Washington, D.C.) - According to press reports, former U.S. Rep. Tom Campbell (R-CA) is courting gay voters in his current run for U.S. Senate. "Gay voters should know where Tom Campbell stands on all the issues," said Jimmy LaSalvia, Executive Director of GOProud - the only national organization representing gay conservatives and their allies. "The greatest threat facing gay people worldwide is the spread of radical anti-gay Islam. Unfortunately, Tom Campbell's record makes it clear he either doesn't understand that or is unwilling to confront it."

Campbell wrote a letter of support for convicted terrorist Sami Al-Arian, who actually raised money for Campbell's failed run for Senate in 2000. Al-Arian was indicted in February 2003 as the North American head of Palestinian Islamic Jihad. In the indictment, it was revealed that in Al-Arian's communications with his colleagues were discussions of terrorist operations. Among the victims of these operations in Israel were several Americans.

"Tom Campbell raised money from and publicly voiced support for a convicted terrorist," continued LaSalvia. "A man who once publicly declared, ‘Jihad is our path. Victory to Islam. Death to Israel. Revolution. Revolution until victory. Rolling to Jerusalem."

In his failed 2000 Senate bid, Campbell called for the creation of an independent Palestinian state with its capital in Jerusalem, argued that Israel received too much U.S. aid, and attacked former President Bill Clinton for being too pro-Israel.

While in Congress, Campbell was one of only a handful of Representatives to vote against both a resolution expressing support for Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and against the unilateral declaration of a Palestinian state.

"Israel is one of the United States most important and loyal allies, and quite frankly Tom Campbell's record and rhetoric look more like Pat Buchanan's then Ronald Reagan's," said LaSalvia. "Israel is a beacon of freedom and tolerance in a sea of radically anti-gay regimes in the Middle East. You simply cannot claim to support equality of opportunity for gays and lesbians while at the same time seeking to undermine the only country in the Middle East that treats gay people with dignity and respect."

In 2000, Campbell supported easing sanctions on the anti-gay regime of Saddam Hussein, and in 2004, Campbell called for the complete withdrawal of American forces from Iraq.

"GOProud is a vocal supporter of Israel, and as an organization, we believe strongly in the need to elect leaders who will stand up for Israel and will fight the spread of radical anti-gay Islam. Sadly, Tom Campbell's rhetoric and record make it clear he is not one of those leaders," concluded LaSalvia.

Final note - This website will back whichever Republican candidate wins the primary. Though, Tom Campbell may have some questionable views on Israel and foreign policy in general, there's no doubt he would be a vast improvement over Barbara Boxer in every regard, should he prevail in the primary.