Field and fund independent or third-party challengers when both major parties fail
What is this?
When both major party candidates fail to represent the electorate, general elections offer the opportunity to field independent or third-party challengers who will actually serve the people.
While the two-party system creates structural barriers, coordinated grassroots support can break through—especially in local and state elections where organized communities can compete with party machines.
Strategic approach
1. Identify Winnable Races
Start local: city council, school board, state legislature. These races require fewer resources and have lower barriers to entry. Build a track record before attempting federal offices.
2. Recruit Quality Candidates
Look for people with integrity, relevant experience, community ties, and genuine commitment to service. They don't need party machinery—they need authentic connection to constituents.
3. Build Coalition Support
Independent candidates succeed by building coalitions across party lines—people who are fed up with both parties and ready for something different. Focus on issues, not ideology.
4. Run Professional Campaigns
Third-party and independent campaigns must be even more professional than major party campaigns. Meet all legal requirements, raise funds transparently, communicate clearly, and organize effectively.
Overcoming structural barriers
Ballot access
Each state has different rules for getting on the ballot. Research requirements early: petition signatures, filing deadlines, and fees. Organize volunteers specifically for this task.
Media coverage
Media often ignores third-party candidates. Compensate with strong social media presence, earned media through newsworthy events, and direct voter contact like door-knocking.
Fundraising
Without party infrastructure, independent candidates must build grassroots fundraising networks. Focus on small-dollar donors, transparent accounting, and demonstrating fiscal responsibility.
Voter psychology
Many voters fear "wasting" their vote. Counter this by demonstrating viability through polls, endorsements, and crowd sizes. Make voting for you feel like joining a movement.
Debate access
Debate rules often exclude third parties. Push for inclusion, file complaints if rules are unfair, and host alternative forums to showcase your candidate.
Electoral systems
First-past-the-post voting makes third parties difficult. Advocate for ranked-choice voting and other electoral reforms while running strategic campaigns where you can win.
It can be done
Independent and third-party candidates have won at every level of government. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Angus King (I-ME), and many mayors and city council members prove it's possible with the right strategy and grassroots support.
Common questions
Isn't this just splitting the vote?
Only if you assume voters "belong" to one party or another. When both parties fail, voters deserve a real choice. The goal is to win, not to play spoiler.
Can independents really win?
Yes, especially in local and state races. Even when they don't win, strong showings force major parties to address issues they were ignoring.
What about party resources?
Party resources come with party control. Independent candidates trade institutional support for freedom to truly represent their constituents without answering to party bosses.
How do we fund these campaigns?
Grassroots fundraising from small donors, transparent crowdfunding, and coalition support from groups and individuals tired of the two-party system.
Ready to break the duopoly?
Support independent candidates who will put people before parties.