JULY 2026 edition
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RE: Gilbert article
I object to describing Mr. Gilbert as a libertarian, at least with respect to his views on drug policy.
What’s happening in Portland isn’t consistent with a core principle of libertarianism: freedom and personal responsibility are inseparable. I agree that people should generally be free to engage in risky activities, but they should also bear the consequences of those choices rather than shift those consequences onto society.
Another fundamental tenet of libertarianism is the strong protection of property rights. Financing a drug habit through shoplifting is a direct violation of that principle because it infringes on the rights of others. Likewise, libertarians generally reject harassment, intimidation, and other conduct that interferes with another person’s liberty.
That is why I question whether Mr. Gilbert is applying libertarianism consistently or simply embracing it when doing so aligns with his preferred policy outcomes. A political philosophy should be applied consistently, even when it leads to uncomfortable conclusions.
I’m generally in favor of harm reduction, but it should be implemented in a way that helps people struggling with addiction while also minimizing the harm that antisocial behavior imposes on the broader community. I also generally support drug legalization in theory. The challenge is that addiction often undermines personal responsibility and makes it difficult for individuals to respect the rights and property of others. As they say "the road to hell is paved with good intentions"
Re Taunting Michelle Milla
I have nothing positive to say about the Multnomah County policy regarding syringes. For that matter, the State of Oregon is also culpable for what happened to Milla and nurse Giardini. Why do I state this? Gilbert is one clever advocate for actions that are considered illegal in other municipalities. He knows the law. His "do gooder" attitude repulses me. As Scott Spencer identified, true Libertarians understand personal responsibility. The mauraders herracing Milla are not Libertarian defenders, they are self-appointed thugs.
Drug users are addicts. Drugs cause harm to them as well as those they confront. Portland lost its way. Citizens should never be made afraid of defending what the majority of our society believes is safe.
Our area needs new leadership. We need to return to conduct that is supportive of the golden rule. No minority should be legally allowed to diminish the morality desired by the majority. I advocate for no needles and no support for users unless they present themselves for cure.