[RobRich]

Bob Barr today launched the official Libertarian Party presidential campaign.

If he wins the White House, he said he would immediately freeze discretionary spending in Washington. He also would begin withdrawing troops from Iraq and consider slashing spending at federal agencies such as the departments of education and commerce—as well as at overseas military bases.

The former U.S. attorney also said he would strictly enforce immigration laws.

Barr, 59, quit the Republican Party two years ago, saying he had grown disillusioned with its failure to shrink government and its willingness to scale back civil liberties in fighting terrorism. He has been particularly critical of President Bush over the war in Iraq and says the administration is ignoring constitutional protections on due process and privacy.

Source: Googe (Associated Press)