Discussion: Why not a Third Party?

Need approx 100-150 word response….

Many advocates of third party politics point to the lack of choices and influence with only the two parties to choose from. Some argue that the two major parties do not represent specific philosophies on issues, while others accuse them of colluding with each other and maintaining the status quo.

Visit CNN Politics.com to read the article “Two-party ‘charade’ must end, Ron Paul says” (or use the following keywords in an online search engine: Two-party ‘charade’ must end, Ron Paul says) discussing Republican Congressman Ron Paul’s support for third parties, and why he feels it is so essential for third parties to gain momentum, in light of his unsuccessful bid for the 2008 Republican Party presidential nomination.

Then search the Internet for other articles supporting more third party candidates, and consider the following questions.

• What reasons do they give for advocating a third party?
• Do you feel the current two-party system is in fact a “charade” which does not accurately reflect the changing views of the American people? Why or why not?
• Do you believe most Americans actually feel that the major party they are affiliated with truly represents their views? If not, why do you think they continue to be part of a major party?
• If you feel the current two-party system is flawed, what do you think needs to be done to address it? If you don’t think it is flawed, why do you feel it is working well?