What's your view on a third party candidate running for President, Senate or Congress?

Are they just spoilers under the current American system?

Looking at the systems in other countries, do you think that multiple party systems is the way to go?

If so, how would you amend the American system to make it work? Which system would you emulate?

Well here is my 2 cents worth.

quote:

Originally posted by Sue N:
What's your view on a third party candidate running for President, Senate or Congress?

Are they just spoilers under the current American system?

Obviously some change has occurred from 3rd party participation.

quote:

Looking at the systems in other countries, do you think that multiple party systems is the way to go?

Not sure. Then again if it is a Libertarian party... But it is unlikely to happen in a Presidential as compared to a parliamentary system. Thus the whole system would have to change. Not likely.

quote:

If so, how would you amend the American system to make it work? Which system would you emulate?

Parliament. I guess UK (since I love the House of Commons-great entertainment)?

We have multiple parties, but not proportional representation. the Lib Dem party is showing that a 3rd party can be a viable force. But I do often find myself voting not for the candidate I pefer, but whoever I think will defeat the party I like least.

The rest of the time I vote Green, knowing that they are unlikely to gain a seat in a winner-take-all system, but wanting to let the main parties know that green issues are important. I think that does work to some extent - or at least, it triggers some lip service. Needless to say the Greens and others want proportional representation. We have it in European elections, where greens have won seats.

I was asking if you like the House of Commons also, Sue?

Oh.

I don't like the scoring points aspect, it does not impress me at all, same as all the your team-my team stuff here is so tiresome and pointless, and distracts from the issues. But at least there is some good information and action comes out of it from time to time. But there are a lot worse places than the House of Commons, and at least we can see what our representatives are up to.

True enough Sue.
It is not like they get into fist fights like Taiwan.