Why Do Third Parties Struggle So Much?

Question 1

Why does FPTP prove a disadvantage to third parties?

Answer 1

. FPTP is a winner takes all system, where the candidate who receives the most votes win.
. As a result it is difficult for third party candidates to receive more votes than the Republican or Democrat Candidates.

Question 2

How do matching funds prove a disadvantage to third parties?

Answer 2

. Major party candidates qualify for an election by raising at least $5000 in contributions or $250 or less in at least 20 states.

. Third party candidates however only qualify by winning 5% of the popular vote in the last election. Most third parties do not achieve this and are only temporary meaning they do not run for more than 1 election.

Question 3

How does not having a national profile prove a disadvantage to third parties?

Answer 3

. Few third parties do not receive the national recognition required to actually have a chance of competing with the big parties.

Question 4

How can a lack of media coverage prove a disadvantage to third parties?

Answer 4

. Many third parties simply do not have the money to fund a media campaign, as a result, they receive little national attention.