Ted Yoho Gets New Opponent in Libertarian Activist Tom Knapp

Tom Knapp, a libertarian activist and Marines veteran, launched a bid against U.S. Rep. Ted Yoho, R-Fla., on Tuesday. 

“I'm pleased and proud to announce my write-in candidacy as a Libertarian for U.S.  House of Representatives from Florida's Third District,” Knapp announced on Tuesday, noting he could end up in another district due to redistricting. “Over the coming months I will do my best to articulate many compelling reasons for the Third District's voters to choose me as their representative in Washington. 

“I've looked at the major party candidates for the seat, incumbent Republican Ted Yoho and Democratic challenger Ed Emery,” Knapp added. “Given their stated positions on the issues (and Yoho's performance in office thus far), I can't imagine myself voting for either of them, nor do I believe they deserve your vote, nor have I heard of any credible alternatives declaring for the office or even ‘testing the waters’ for a prospective candidacy.

“That leaves me with the choice of either not voting, or voting for myself. And if I'm going to vote for myself, I might as well ask you to vote for me too. So that's what I'm doing,” Knapp noted in closing. “I look forward to a lively discussion of the issues over the coming 14 months, hopefully culminating in your own decision to write in ‘Tom Knapp for Congress’ next November.”