Youth-Driven #LibertyKaraoke to Host 50+ Events for Rand Paul for President Announcement
Grassroots Effort Hopes to Engage Young Voters Across the U.S.
ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA – Young supporters of Kentucky Senator Rand Paul, who is expected to announce his 2016 presidential campaign on Tuesday, April 7, will host #LibertyKaraoke fundraising events in at least 50 cities across the United States the evening of Paul’s announcement.
“I think Senator Paul is uniquely positioned to capture the youth vote for the Republican Party for the first time since 1988,” said Matthew Hurtt, an organizer who helped launch #LibertyKaraoke in Arlington in 2013. “It is my hope that these events excite young people and give them a venue to support Senator Paul’s campaign financially.”
#LibertyKaraoke started unofficially as a weekly gathering place for young liberty activists in the D.C.-area more than five years ago. During the 2014 cycle, Hurtt monetized the events and targeted pro-liberty candidates for Congress, raising more than $20,000 for Reps. Justin Amash (MI-03) and Thomas Massie (KY-04), as well as then-candidate Igor Birman (CA-07).
“These events show that Republicans know how to loosen our collars and have a good time,” said Cliff Maloney, another #LibertyKaraoke organizer. “Young people don’t have the disposable income to donate large amounts to candidates, but we can afford $10, $20, or $35, which is what we’re asking attendees to donate.”
Donations will be made directly to the official Rand Paul 2016 presidential campaign committee. #LibertyKaraoke does not bundle or otherwise process contributions directly.
“I think this is a great fundraising model going forward for young Republicans,” said Hurtt. “These events mix politics and fun and empower young people to make a difference by investing in the political process.”
To see a full list of events, go to www.libertykaraoke.com
For regular updates, follow #LibertyKaraoke on Twitter: www.twitter.com/liberty_karaoke
To host a #LibertyKaraoke event in your town, please contact event organizer Matthew Hurtt: Matt.Hurtt@gmail.com