I am very frustrated with both major-party candidates this year. American taxpayers are fed up with the campaign between tax-and-spend John Kerry and borrow-and-spend George Bush. Anyone who advocates a smaller, less expensive government is wasting their vote on Kerry or Bush.

The Libertarian Party, which is widely considered the nation’s most successful third party, has successfully placed its presidential candidate, Michael Badnarik, on the ballot in 48 states, including Maine.

I am voting Libertarian this year because I truly believe that the federal government is out of control. It has far exceeded the power given to it in our Constitution and continues to grow by restricting our individual rights. I believe that most of our problems in education, health care, welfare, Social Security, prescription drugs and other areas are a direct result of too much government, too many regulations, unfunded mandates and restrictions of individual rights and our free enterprise system.

Both Kerry and Bush will increase the size of government. The Libertarian Party and Michael Badnarik are our only alternatives to reduce the role of government in our lives. Even though he will not win the election, I must vote my conscience or my vote is wasted.

George Mathews, Auburn