Libertarians Nominate Judge Jim Gray for Vice-President

It’s official, the Libertarian ticket for 2012 is Johnson/Gray!

With nearly 60% of the vote on the first ballot, former Superior Court Judge and marijuana legalization activist Jim Gray has been selected by the Libertarian Party as Gary Johnson’s running mate. Gray defeated former presidential candidate Lee Wrights, who won the support of about 38% of delegates voting.

Johnson had endorsed and campaigned for Gray, while speaking highly of Wrights as an advocate for Libertarian principles.

For the first time in history, this year’s Libertarian ticket arguably contains more substantial elected and private sector experience than either of the major party choices.

Gray made it clear to delegates in attendance that he believes the Libertarian Party is poised for a breakthrough year.

“We are a political party, not a philosophical debate society,” Gray told supporters. “The purpose of a political party is to enter candidates and win elections.”

Gray noted that he made Johnson swear that the campaign’s goal would be victory, not just to make a good showing. He also outlined for delegates his hope that the ticket would poll above 15% and enable him to participate in a national debate against Vice-President Joe Biden.

“You will never regret this,” Gray told the crowd after his victory. “I’ve never been so excited.”