Libertarian candidate speaks at Macalester

Libertarian presidential candidate Gary Johnson told an audience of about 150 people in Minnesota today that if he is elected he would abolish the Federal Reserve, legalize marijuana and repeal personal and corporate income taxes.

Johnson is a former Republican governor of New Mexico who decided to run as a Libertarian after an unsuccessful run for the GOP nomination. He spoke at Macalester College Friday afternoon. He also said the U.S. should not be intervening in the affairs of other countries.

"I call for vacating our embassies right now. Why make ourselves a target in the Middle East. I think more people are understanding that we have become the symbol of everything that is wrong in the world," Johnson said.

"I am the only candidate who wants to end the drug war. Let's legalize marijuana now."

Johnson appeared with former Gov. Jesse Ventura. Ventura told the audience that Johnson is the only viable alternative to President Barack Obama and Republican candidate Mitt Romney.

Johnson says he will likely be on the ballot in all 50 states. He dismissed suggestions that he'd be a spoiler candidate for Romney or Obama.

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