A Letter to the Telegraph
Here is a letter David Duke sent to the telegraph in reply to the article on May 15, 2009 that quoted the far left Green Party leader in Austria saying that David Duke was living in Austria and making a living photographing birds. It is hard not to contain our laughter at the depths to which the Telegraph has sunk.
The Telegraph
Dear Editor,
It seems journalism in the UK is becoming more and more shoddy these days.
Recently the Telegraph reported that I, David Duke, had “setup a home in Austria where I was “running a birdwatching business.”
The whole piece was based on statements from the neo-Marxist “Green Party” politician Karl Oellingerin in Austria who was simply trying to stir up publicity in his country for his failing political fortunes. Odd isn’t it for the Green Party politician who who seeks permanent residency rights in Austria for every Nigerian drug pusher — doesn’t even want a former elected American politician to even visit the Austrian Alps for a few days.
Although I don’t live in Austria, I do visit for very short periods sometimes because I love the mountains and the friendly people of that country. I do no political work there, I come to walk and think and sometimes photograph in the mountain air among the inspiring peaks.
The article contradicts itself by quoting Alexander Marakovits, Austrian Interior Minister spokesman, who said: “As a US citizen he can, as a tourist, stay three months at a time without a visa. And currently there is no evidence of criminal acts.” That statement itself shows that I have no residency in Austria nor have I sought one. Making short visits to European countries for a few days does not constitute making a residence or living there. I actually spend more time in Italy and other nations of Europe than I do in Austria.
I am an official resident and taxpayer in Mandeville, Louisiana and last time I checked, Mandeville is in the USA, not Europe. That’s where I live and run my office. I do spend some time in Europe and have taught and lectured and traveled extensively in Europe, especially in Russia, Ukraine, Spain, Sweden, Denmark and elsewhere. I have also been a teacher and lecturer in Europe but never in Austria. And by the way, every one who visits for more than three days any friends in an EU nation is required to register. I have some nice friends in Austria. Simple registration does not constitute a home or residence as the Telegraph should certainly know.
As for”birdwatching.” I have no such business. I have been a part time professional, artistic photographer, but my primary focus is landscape not birds. In fact of the 30 photos offered on my website in America, only three have any wildlife at all, and two are swans. At least swans are in the in the bird family. I don’t think that even makes me a swan watcher.
I am not upset by the Telegraph article, as Austria is a beautiful country, beautiful nature and beautiful, kind and friendly people. There could be far worse places to live.
I am an American, live in America, but visit Europe and lecture there. I don’t live, work or teach in Austria. I an official resident of Mandeville, LA and pay state, local and national taxes as a resident.
Fellows, you need to get your information straight.
Sincerely,
Dr. David Duke
former member of the House of Representatives
State of Louisiana
United States of America
