Republican and Conservative political analysis and commentary

David Boaz, executive VP of the libertarian Cato Institute, says libertarian Republicans ought to be wary of the authoritarian Rudy Giuliani.

Behind Rudy Giuliani's impressive lead in the polls is one fact that puzzles the pundits: Many cultural conservatives are backing a pro-choice, pro-gun control candidate. But what should be equally surprising is the strong support Giuliani is finding among libertarian-leaning Republicans, who also make up a big slice of the GOP base.

Here's why: Throughout his career, Giuliani has displayed an authoritarian streak that would be all the more problematic in a man who would assume executive powers vastly expanded by President Bush.

I have no fear of an authoritarian Republican if he is asserting authority that he, constitutionally, possesses. Boaz seems to think Giuliani overstepped his authority while serving as Mayor of New York, and he lays out some damning evidence.