ENTREVISTA COM DANIEL MILLER – PRESIDENTE DO TEXAS
NATIONALIST MOVEMENT
Feita por Luiz Giaconi, Jornalista e Coordenador de Comunicação do MSPI
1 - When Texas Independence movement in general started? And what was the main
reason for the beginning?
The drive for Texas independence has existed in some form since Texas joined the United States.
However, the more disconnected Texans have become from the Federal Government, the more
the movement has grown. But in its modern incarnation, the movement has been active since
1995.
2 - When Texas Nationalist Movement started and what made the people who organized it
getting together to form the current movement?
The TNM was formed in 2005 as part of a unification effort of all independence groups and
organizations existing at that time. For us it became a matter of practicality. It only made sense
to gather people together who agreed with our mission, vision and values under one banner.
Focused effort is critical to success in self-determination.
3 - What were the main problems that you had in the beginning?
Our challenges were the same as any movement. However, given our history and the current
political climate we had some additional challenges. Addressing the viability of independence is
a key component of any independence movement. But for us we had to address the issue of
whether or not independence was even possible. There is a near or outright majority in favor of
independence, yet we were encumbered by the perception that it could not happen.
4 - Did you suffer any retaliation from the federal government? How have you dealt with
it?
Texas as a whole is the recipient of Federal retaliation, but as a specific organization we have
not. At this point, any retaliation by the Federal Government specifically against the TNM would
only bolster and validate our position.
5 - What are the main reasons that you give to claim for Texas independence from USA?
Article 1 Section 1 of the Texas Constitution states that the perpetuity of the union depends on
the right of local self-government unimpaired to all the states. It is evident that the Federal
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Government has impaired our right of self-government. Our unique political, cultural and
economic character is consistently trampled by the Federal Government.
But our claim is much more than a simple reaction to the actions of the Federal Government. Our
desire for independence springs from our heritage and history of independence. Simply put,
Texans believe that, in all things, we should be an independent nation.
6 - How do you motivate members who joined and how do you attract new members to the
cause?
Three words. Information. Organization. Action.
7 - How do you turn a simple sympathizer of Texas independence into a full and
participating member of your movement?
For everyone it’s different. But as an organization, to speed that transition, there are three key
elements - results, consistency, tenacity. You have to show that you are making progress by
growing support for independence and moving down the path to independence. You have to be
consistent in your thoughts, words and deeds. And you must never quit. Sympathizers look at
this and adjust their level of support accordingly.
8 - In case of Texas independence, how do you think that the relation with the remaining
USA will be?
We would hope that it would be strong and friendly. It is not beneficial to either party to be
adversarial.
9 - What would be the position of an independent Texas on foreign relations, especially
with latin american countries?
The name Texas is derived from a native word that means “friendship”. We do now and would
continue in the future to seek peace and friendship with all people.
10 - Did Barack Obama’s victories in 2008 and 2012 generated frustration in Texas and
help the independence movement?
His reelection in 2012 more than his election in 2008. But it’s important to avoid thinking that
the growth of support in Texas independence is solely a response to Obama. As a movement,
Texas independence has grown and flourished under 3 different American presidents.
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11- About former governor Rick Perry, what is your position about him and do you believe
that, secretly, he supports your cause?
We have had a mixed relationship with Governor Perry. We are hoping that his successor is
more consistent. Given what we have seen with Governor Perry, we have no idea what he
actually supports.
12 - What kind of relation and cooperation Texas and São Paulo Independence movements
could have?
The TNM seeks communication and cooperation with independence and self-determination
movements around the world. We believe that we all share a common desire for selfdetermination and, through that common thread, we can seek to inspire and inform our respective
journeys toward independence.
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www.saopauloindependente.org