The Republican party was founded in 1854. A scant six years later it won the Presidency. What is it about politics today that prevents third party alternatives from achieving such high office?
Money, and the way it's funneled, or not funneled to the political process.
Bloomberg can run an effective third party campaign, just as Perot was able.
Bill Gates, he could give it a shot, as could Forbes or even Oprah.
While he wasn't my cup of tea, nor were his opinions, nor what the lead to, a bomber pilot by the name of McGovern did change the political landscape in 1968. Financed by a Ford scion as I recall, which was no secret.
Couldn't happen today, Mel Gibson can spend his money on a run for President, but not in support of, take your pick, whatever third party candidate.
As each piece of legislation passes, we become more and more entrenched in two parties. I'm sure that's an accident.
Should note again that the founding of the Republican Party in Ripon was 150 years ago. I'm not sure 3rd parties will emerge often, TR couldn't do it, but CFR does supress minority views.
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