US elections usually focus on two main parties: the Democrats and Republicans. The Democrats are usually linked to liberal policies, while Republicans are known for a conservative approach.
However, Americans have options beyond these, known as third parties. Despite their low popularity, third parties are crucial to the election outcome. Here’s an in-depth guide to third-party candidates in 2024:
2024 third-party candidates: Who are they?
Aside from Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, three third-party candidates vied for the highest office. They showcase various advocacies, representing less popular but important voices.
Learn more about third-party candidates here:
Jill Stein
Jill Stein is a doctor and a green activist running under the Green Party. This is her third stint in the position, having previously run in 2012 and 2016. As her campaign continues, some voters are looking to use US presidential election betting as a way to gauge public sentiment.
Here are her key causes:
- Economic rights: She campaigns for an Economic Bill of Rights, ensuring jobs, healthcare, and housing for all. This aims to improve the income gap and living standards of all Americans.
- Climate action: Stein proposes the Green New Deal to combat climate change. She claims this plan will also create millions of jobs as the economy shifts to renewable sources.
- Anti-war stance: She is against troop intervention and believes that diplomacy over military focus is the only way to stop ‘endless wars.’
Cornel West
Cornel West is a philosopher and activist known for his progressive views on justice and grassroots movements. He is running under Justice for All, a newly formed party, after failing to secure the presidential position under the Green Party.
Here are the causes he supports the most:
- Economic justice: West focuses on the everyday struggles against corporate greed, prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable.
- Anti-military: He has spoken out against sending in soldiers, calling for a more humane policy.
- Social equity: His platform supports equal rights for all, especially races and genders, seeing these issues as related.
Chase Oliver
Chase Oliver is another candidate who can alter results on politics betting website. He is running under the Libertarian Party, known for his previous stint in the Georgian Senate.
Here are his focus issues:
- Economic freedom: Oliver supports free trade and wants to balance the federal budget. He believes that inflation could be cut while boosting businesses.
- Abortion rights: He is pro-choice and believes abortion should be legal nationwide. However, Oliver is against using taxpayer money for abortions and backs rules like the Hyde Amendment.
- Climate change: Oliver believes that rewarding businesses for green efforts can reduce the reliance on carbon-based fuels.
Randall Terry
Randall Terry is a known anti-abortionist running under the Constitution Party. He founded Operation Rescue, taking action against abortion clinics.
Here are Terry’s key advocacies:
- Family values: Terry promotes policies that he believes will combat the erosion of family values in society. He opposes abortion, divorce, and sex education in schools.
- Limited government: He wants to tune down federal control and give states more freedom, believing in a stricter view of the Constitution.
- Religious freedom: Terry aims for free faith expression, particularly in matters concerning morality.
Potential impact on outcomes
Third-party candidates can be less popular, but their candidacy can alter results. For example, in 2000, Ralph Nader is believed to have drawn votes away from Al Gore, contributing to Bush’s narrowly winning in Florida. In 2016, Gary Johnson and Jill Stein were thought to have impacted Hillary Clinton’s campaign against Trump.
Here’s how third-party candidates impact elections:
- Shift in normal trends: Third-party candidates can draw votes from Democrats and Republicans. For instance, progressive candidates like Stein and West could get Democrats’ votes, affecting Harris’ support.
- Changes in voter interest: Stein and other candidates can motivate previously disinterested voters to participate in the election.
- Regional impacts: Third-party candidates usually have local support, potentially leading to contested races in some states.
The Pitfalls of Booking Your Trip on a Third-Party Website(Opens in a new browser tab)
The future of third parties in US politics
Currently, US elections are driven by a two-party and ‘winner-takes-all’ system, so it’s still harder for third parties to compete. However, many young voters are seeking change, leading them to consider other options. This can influence how people engage with the political process, including avenues like election betting online.
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