In a surprising twist to the political narrative, former President Donald Trump took to the stage with a message targeted at Libertarian voters. His speech, delivered with his trademark confidence and bluster, included a direct taunt: “Keep getting your 3%.” It’s a mocking reference to the small percentage of the vote that third-party candidates typically receive in United States elections.

Trump’s remarks were part of a broader attempt to woo Libertarians to his side, which is unusual considering the stark differences between Trump’s brand of politics and libertarianism. Although Libertarians often share conservative viewpoints on economic issues like taxation and regulation, they tend to disagree sharply with Trump’s populist stances on trade and immigration, not to mention his often aggressive foreign policy inclinations.

The irony of Trump’s entreaty lies in its brazenness. On one hand, he belittles the Libertarian Party’s impact; on the other, he subtly acknowledges their potential as kingmakers in tight electoral contests. In previous elections, Libertarian candidates have been viewed by some as siphoning votes away from mainstream Republican candidates — votes that could be crucial in swing states.

Trump seems to be banking on the idea that Libertarians might prefer his policies over those of a more progressive Democratic candidate. By poking fun at their low electoral numbers, he may be attempting to frame a vote for the Libertarian Party as wasted. Perhaps he believes that emphasizing how critical each vote is in an election might sway some Libertarians who are disillusioned with their party’s lack of success at the polls.

However, whether this strategy will be successful is up for debate. Libertarian voters pride themselves on their principles and might not take kindly to being mocked or viewed as merely a strategic voter bloc. While Trump’s blunt approach has endeared him to many voters who appreciate his candor, it could just as easily alienate Libertarians who feel their values are being trivialized.

As election season heats up, it will be interesting to see if any Libertarian voters heed Trump’s words or stand firm in their commitment to their party’s ideology. Either way, “Keep getting your 3%” is likely to become one of the more memorable lines from this election cycle – a quintessentially Trump blend of insult and invitation that only time will tell if it pays off politically.