Libertarian Party candidates and their supporters came to Williamsport over the weekend to get out their message and raise money.

The events included the party’s convention held at the Genetti Hotel and a fundraising event Friday at the Hatchet House in Williamsport.

Among those mingling with hatchet tossers was Dave Smith, a New York-based comedian, radio personality and political commentator, who remains on the fence about running for U.S. president on the Libertarian ticket.

“It’s too early to say,” he said.

The nation, Smith said, is in the midst of a crisis from bad government to the tyrannical policies being handed down.

He noted the crippling effect the COVID-19 pandemic had on businesses and children.

Smith has been hitting Libertarian Party events around the country and likes what he’s seeing.

“There is a lot of enthusiasm right now in the Libertarian Party,” he said.

That doesn’t surprise him, he said, as many people have lost their trust in institutions and the two-party system.

As for seeking the presidency, he said, “I don’t want to, but I may have to.”

Acknowledging that third-party candidates have a tough time getting the same exposure as Democrats and Republicans, he feels candidates with authenticity and truth behind them always have a chance.

“I think it’s kind of a scary time to be alive, he said, “but it’s also a really exciting time.”

Jeremy “Spike” Cohen, who in 2020 ran for vice president as a Libertarian, said he’s not seeking any political office at this time, but is lending his support to the party and candidates.

He said he sees progress with the party, with more of its candidates being elected to positions across the country.

“Right now, it’s important to get people excited and elected,” he said.

He said he can see how the excitement has been building for the party.

“I’m very optimistic,” he said.

Michael Heise, chair of the Libertarian Party Mises Political Action Committee, said having a personality such as Smith in the party’s fold is a big plus.

“He’s got the ability to give us exposure,” he said.

Tom Woods, a New York Times bestselling author and podcaster, said it was good to see many young people at the Hatchet House for the Libertarian event.

“Political activists tend to be older,” he said.

Jersey Shore Mayor Sally Combs, a member of the Lycoming County Libertarian Committee, noted that no less than 400 people were expected to attend the Libertarian events in the city over the weekend.