The Democratic Party doesn’t have much tolerance for Jill Stein, the Green Party candidate whose presence brings back unpleasant memories of the 2016 race between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. Stein dismisses her previous role with both the Green Party and as an independent candidate years ago. But in 2024, Stein isn’t the only third-party or independent candidate vying for attention alongside the Democratic primary field, instigating unease among both Democrats and Republicans less than a year out from Election Day.
Here are the top 5 questions regarding third-party and independent candidates in 2024:
1. Which party do they ultimately help? Both parties are actively formulating strategies to direct third-party and independent candidates away from their opponents and towards their camp. Independent candidates such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has attracted a significant number of Republican donors and seems to be pulling potentially from both sides, have the potential to impact the race in unexpected ways.
2. Will third-party candidates qualify for state ballots? Gaining ballot access can be a costly and time-consuming process for third-party and independent candidates. Several candidates are already focusing their efforts on key early voting states such as New Hampshire and South Carolina.
3. How will President Biden react to the increasing number of primary challengers and independent candidates? Despite having multiple primary challengers, including one prominent independent candidate, President Biden remains unphased and has largely overlooked the growing field of competitors.
4. Can RFK Jr. coalesce the youth vote? Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s appeal to young voters could have a significant effect on the race’s outcome. Recent polls have shown Kennedy’s growing support among younger voters, potentially reshaping the electoral landscape.
5. What is the future for Sen. Joe Manchin? The announcement of Sen. Joe Manchin’s retirement from the U.S. Senate could have far-reaching implications for the Democratic Party, leaving many wondering about his next move and potential influence on the 2024 presidential race.
