As I’ve been talking to friends, family and students in general, I seem to be hearing the same thing over and over again: “I don’t really like George Bush or John Kerry, so I guess I’m going to have to vote for the lesser of two evils.” Sadly, this is how many Americans feel in this day and age – that they have no alternative but to vote for a Democrat or a Republican. This may well explain the drop off in voter turnout in past years.

However, I feel it is important to realize that we do not have to pick the lesser of two evils, nor, as Americans, should we. There are many alternative parties that we can choose from and not limit ourselves to the “Big Two.” At this point, if you are still reading my letter, you have undoubtedly started thinking: “Go ahead and vote for a third party. Throw your vote away.” But to you I say that the only vote wasted is the one not cast.

There are many valid reasons to vote for a third party, perhaps the most important of which is that it will send a message to the “Big Two” that we are dissatisfied with whom they have chosen to run and/or we dislike the policies they stand for. Lately, the latter may be more important because both major parties seem to be more and more alike. Next, should a third party receive between 5 and 25 percent of the popular vote in a presidential election, they will be eligible to receive public funding for their campaigns in the next presidential election. This public funding is that same public funding the “Big Two” get automatically every year. In other words, should a third party get the chance to use that funding, they could play on a more level playing field with the “Big Two.”

Another way we can help support the third party is by demanding TV networks allow third-party candidates to participate in the televised debate. Even if they can’t be in the debates, they should at least be allowed a 15-minute time spot so they, too, can express their views and give us a chance to choose. The power of the third party cannot be denied. We have seen in recent years just what that power can do. In 2000, Ralph Nader may have changed the outcome of the election. Jesse Ventura, who ran under the Reform party, was elected governor of Minnesota in 1998. In 1992, Ross Perot pulled in almost 19 percent of the popular vote.

In closing, if you truly feel John Kerry or George Bush is the man you want to vote for, then by all means, please do so. However, if you, like myself, do not want to have to vote for the “lesser of two evils,” please consider looking into a third party and send the “Big Two” a message come November.

Chris Heath

Junior, history