If Ralph Nader had decided to run in the 2004 presidential race as a Green Party candidate, he could have changed the face of American politics without even winning.
In the 2000 Presidential election, Nader's votes came in under five percent. This might not seem like a lot, but five percent of the popular vote would have qualified the Green Party for federal funding; an advantage both the Democrats and Republicans currently have. Federal funding might help a third party make a bigger name for itself, reach more Americans and gain more prestigious candidates.
Unfortunately, Nader is running as an independent.
Either way, having Nader on the ballot creates an option for voters who may not want to vote for either Republican incumbent George W. Bush or the Democrat that wins the nomination.
This might cause those who were previously not interested in voting to take a second look at their options. Those who have not found a candidate to fit their views on issues might consider Nader as an option.
But if a third party had gained committee status, like the Republican and Democratic parties, the change could end the cycle of two party elections.
America was founded on the ideals that anyone who wanted to run for a political office should have a chance as long as he or she is qualified.
The possibility of having another viable party could achieve that principle.
After all, three heads are better than one.
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