Like many other people in the United States right now, I am not satisfied with the presidential candidates from the Democratic and Republican parties. Hillary Clinton is untrustworthy and corrupt and will do anything in her power to further her political career, instead of actually caring for the American people and their needs. Donald Trump has no experience in politics and says things that many people perceive as racist, egotistic, and misogynistic, therefore damaging the reputation of the Republican Party. Yes, I agree there are also pros to both candidates, but I still believe that neither of them are the best options. Many people are choosing which candidate "they hate the least" as opposed to which ideologies they agree with the most. But, what people often overlook is that there are more than two options on the ballet. Even though our country mainly focuses on the two major political parties, there are many third parties out there that might be more fitting to people's political views, but are often overlooked. Many times voting for a third party can be seen as "throwing your vote away," but I disagree with this statement. Although third parties may seem like uncharted territory now, if we start taking a shift towards a three party system then there could be many positive results in the long term.
Here is why:
1. If a third party candidate receives 5% of the votes, then they are eligible for government funds which could give the parties more publicity and a better chance at competing.
2. If a third party candidate receives 15% in the national polls, then they are eligible for participating in the presidential debates, seen by millions of viewers who could potentially agree with their ideology.
3. We could actually vote for what we truly believe in instead of having to pick between two extremes. Whether your beliefs align more with Gary Johnson from the Libertarian Party, or Jill Stein from the Green Party, it's always better to broaden your horizons and discover what you truly believe in rather than having to settle for a party you're not 100% on.
So, because of this, don't consider voting for a third party a wasted vote. If people have ever even considered thinking about a third party, this is the year to do so because I know many other people are unhappy with the current election as well. Gary Johnson is on the ballot in all 50 states, so if enough people are willing to take a stand against Trump and Clinton instead of conforming to them, then our country can finally make a positive change after many years of gridlock.
