In the United States political scientist and other scholars have placed third parties into four specific categories with various political functio

A more multi-party system is necessary in a democracy as opposed to a two-party system. The multi-party system is more democratic than limiting a voter to just two alternatives. Although it is not probable in this current political situation someday a third party might become the dominant party. The two-party system will eventually be reconstructed in the United States. The Republican Party or Democratic Party will lose popularity and a third party will take over. Before recently the Reform Party in the United States was making some substantial gains in American Politics. The Governor of Minnesota Jesse Ventura was a Reform Party Candidate when he was elected. The 1996 Reform Party Candidate Ross Perot gained enough popular vote to be the only third party to receive Federal Campaign Funds in the 2000 Election. A third party whom has the right political agenda, a charismatic candidate, and economic conditions weaken the two-party system will be successful.

In the political system of the United States many barriers and obstacles exist for Third Parties. In the current style of United States politics the Media plays a crucial role in the system, and also posses numerous obstacles for Third Parties. The media often tends to focus on the ?Two Party Horse Race? and neglects the third parties involved in the race. A Third Party Presidential Candidate can not enter into a televised debate unless he has atleast fifteen percent of the popular vote in five major polls. Then there is the process of getting on the ballot in each individual state. Each state sets it own quota or guidelines for the number of signatures needed to place a candidate on the ballot. Sometimes the number of signatures are numerous and unattainable for some third parties with limited resources. From a financial aspect it is extremely difficult for a third party to compete in a major election. Campaigns cost money and most of the time that money comes from private donations and matching federal funds. A Presidential Candidate must receive five percent of the popular vote in order to receive Federal Funds for the next election. Historically corporations and interest groups support the two major parties with campaign contributions and do not support third parties. Then there are the historical

Some topics in this essay:
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