You have nailed many of my own positions quite well. I still support the LP because most Republicans seem unwilling to get serious about reducing the size and scope of government other than in small, cosmetic ways (such as Bush's tax cut). But the party is lost on many organizational issues, and their foreign policy positions are tainted by anti-Vietnam isolationism. (Many of the founders of the party came from the anti-Vietnam War movement).
I just wish we had better choices. I would gladly support Republicans like Phil Gramm, if there were any around my area to support. Instead we have a "Republican" governor, elected on a no-income-tax pledge, that is on a three-year jihad to impose a state income tax on us. At least Democrats are usually honest that they want the government and taxes to be bigger.
I hear you, Joe. I try to explain to the pacifist types that national defense is one of the main reasons, if not the primary reason the federal government exists. I am all for peace and trade until we're punched in the face. Come on.
How is Culberson doing? I miss Bill Archer, I could always count on him to say something about making government smaller. I am going to miss Phill Gramm when he leaves the Senate. On the other hand, some of those Republican candidates last time were in favor of gun control and affirmative action.