Are you among those who are uncomfortable with both the Republicans and the Democrats? Don't feel pregnant. Just how do you think I was finally driven to become a lifetime member of The Libertarian Party? I default to freedom and individual responsibility pretty much across the board.

In the previous item I made reference to the Gallup Polls. Where here's some more for you. For about 12 years or so Gallup has been using two questions to categorize those who respond to their polls on the basis of ideology. Here are the two questions ... how would you respond to them?

Some people think the government is trying to do too many things that should be left to individuals and businesses. Others think that government should do more to solve our country's problems. Which comes closer to your own view?

Some people think the government should promote traditional values in our society. Others think the government should not favor any particular set of values. Which comes closer to your own view?

OK. Where do you stand? If you listen to me for more than seven minutes you'll know that I believe that our country is trying to do too many things that should be left up to free individuals and private businesses and that I'll establish my own set of values, thank you very much, without government's help. If you responded to these questions the same way, then Gallup will classify you as a libertarian. In 2000 Gallup found that about 18 percent of respondents were Libertarians .. today that number is up to 23 percent. No worries --- I don't mind being in the minority if it's a minority that believes in individual responsibility and liberty.

Another point ... if you tell people that "libertarian" means "fiscally conservative and socially liberal," the number jumps up to 44 percent.