Although the nominees are not official, it’s pretty much a given that Barack Obama will be the Democratic nominee for president, and John McCain will be the Republican’s pick. What’s a poor voter to do, however, if one hates them both equally?
Vote for a third party candidate! Third party candidates have a long and storied history and can turn elections. Did you know that Abraham Lincoln was a third party candidate and the first Republican president?
There are currently a total of 13 people in the running for President: Obama, McCain, 11 third party candidates, and 2 independents. Here’s an overview of the biggest parties.
Bob Barr, a former Congressman, is heading up the ticket for the Libertarians. The Libertarians are the third largest political party in America, and their platform includes reducing government, protecting property rights, and going back to a hard currency. Bob Barr is a member of the pro-life subgroup, Libertarians for Life. The Libertarian party is on the ballot in 31 states.
The Green party has nominated a black woman for Presidential consideration, Cynthia McKinney. Greens stand for non-violence, ecological wisdom, sustainability, and decentralization. The Green Party was on the ballot in 31 states in 2006.
The Constitution party has nominated Rev. Chuck Baldwin and is on the ballot in 21 states. The party platform includes the desire to repeal the 16th amendment (taxing income), as well as the 17th amendment (electing Senators by popular vote; originally the State legislatures appointed them.)
Constant candidate Ralph Nader is running again, and Alan Keyes has thrown his hat into the ring as an independent as well. You won’t see these candidates on televised debates, as the networks have arbitrary and conflicting rules regarding who is eligible to participate. Do your research, and vote for the candidate who is right for you!
