James Walter Clifton

The Rev. Dr. James Walter Clifton
Former Village Trustee Addison, Michigan City Council
March 22, 1988—March 20, 1990
Personal Details
Birth:	(1951-08-25) August 25, 1951 Heidelberg, Germany
Education:	1974 - 2007? BS, MDiv., M.T.S., M.S., Th.M., PhD, D.Min., Doctor of Arts
Military:	United States Army - - Journalist and Public Information
Occupation:	Universalist/Unitarian and Congregationalist minister, Psychotherapist, Community Health Specialist, Paralegal, and Locksmith
Residence:	Millersburg, Indiana
Party:	Independent
Media
Facebook:	Facebook

The Rev. Dr. James Walter Clifton became the first Libertarian to win a partisan election in the State of Michigan when he outpolled both Democrats and Republicans to win a seat on the City Council (Trustee).[1] Two Republicans were elected along with Clifton. Prior to the election, Clifton, Pastor of the Village's United Church of Christ, was serving as Trustee having been appointed to fill a vacancy. Clifton also served on the Village Planning Commission.

During the campaign, Clifton ran on a platform of property rights, limited government, and lower taxes. He promised to immediately resign if he didn't respond to a constituent's concerns within 48 hours of being contacted. Clifton stated he believed he won as a Libertarian because of having been known in the community and having demonstrated common sense and reason while serving in the two previously mentioned appointed positions.

References

Adrian Daily Telegram, March 15, 1988
Hillsdale Daily News, March 15, 1988