Freak Power in the Rockies

Freak Power in the Rockies is an article published in Rolling Stone #67, dated October 1, 1970 and written by Hunter S. Thompson.

Related Topics:
Rolling Stone - 1970 - Hunter S. Thompson

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The article's subject is the 1969 mayoral election in Aspen, Colorado, in particular the candidacy of Joe Edwards, a lawyer and non-conformist resident of Aspen.

Related Topics:
1969 - Aspen, Colorado

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Though unsuccessful the Edwards campaign was notable for its attempt to garner nearly all of its support from 'freaks', 'heads', and 'drop-outs' from the surrounding areas - Freak Power, as it was dubbed. Thompson, who became de-facto campaign manager for Edwards during the race, devotes much of the article to the local politics of Aspen and the entrenched politicians it supports. Simultaneously a screed against politicians who sacrifice the quality of life of their constiuents for short term gain or notoriety, and an outline of optimism regarding the possibility of the marginalized to take power, the article details the campaign from its inception through the run-up to election and ends with a consideration of the results and the impact they may have. It also offers the first glimpse of the Freak Power platform Thompson himself would adopt when running for Sheriff of Aspen the following year.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~