WASHINGTON: A trio of notable third-party and independent candidates are vying to influence the outcome in crucial battleground states as the United States heads into a closely contested presidential election between Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump
Jill Stein, Cornel West, and Chase Oliver — representing the Green Party, independent progressives, and Libertarians, respectively — could play a significant role in what analysts call a toss-up race.
– Left-Wing Activist Jill Stein Draws Democratic Worries –
Jill Stein, a 74-year-old environmental advocate and former Green Party candidate who previously ran in 2012 and 2016, has returned to the race. Though her prior campaigns garnered only a fraction of the vote, Stein will appear on ballots in nearly 40 states this year, posing a dilemma for Democrats. Her presence, particularly in tightly contested states, is sparking fears among Harris supporters that she could siphon off key votes.
In response, the Democratic National Committee released television ads in swing states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, stating, “A vote for Stein is really a vote for Trump.” Stein has positioned herself firmly against the Biden administration’s policies, especially in foreign affairs, declaring her stance to “stop supporting Israel’s genocide in Gaza” while promoting higher taxes for wealthy Americans and cutting defense spending.
– Cornel West Runs Independent Campaign –
Cornel West, a 71-year-old academic and prominent anti-racism advocate, is also running a left-leaning campaign as an independent candidate. West has denounced both major candidates, calling Biden a “war criminal” and Trump a “neofascist.” He will be on ballots in about a dozen states, potentially diverting votes that might have otherwise supported Harris.
– Libertarian Chase Oliver Targets Conservatives –
Representing the Libertarian Party, Chase Oliver, a self-described “armed and gay” former Democrat from Georgia, rounds out the trio of contenders with his pro-gun, fiscally conservative, and socially liberal platform. While largely unknown on the national stage, Oliver’s past Senate race forced a runoff, showcasing his potential to impact close elections. He will be on ballots in almost all 50 states, including key battlegrounds, drawing concern from Republicans who worry he could divert votes from Trump.
– Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Support for Trump Adds to Political Tension –
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an environmental lawyer and vaccine skeptic from the Kennedy political family, briefly appeared as a Democratic-leaning independent before endorsing Trump after exiting the race in August. His decision has caused mixed reactions, with concerns that he could attract votes from both camps. Despite efforts to remove his name from ballots, some states have retained his candidacy, which may still influence voter choices.
