Voting is a fundamental way Americans express their values and beliefs. It is understandable that some people may consider third-party candidates if they are disillusioned with the two-party system or protest against a candidate or party. In recent elections, third-party candidates have influenced election outcomes, but not always in the way third-party voters had hoped. Think of the “butterfly effect” of voting: small choices can have big consequences.
Ralph Nader’s candidacy in 2000 likely stole votes from Al Gore and tilted the ticket in favor of George W. Bush. It’s ironic that Nader’s policies aligned closely with the climate change goals that Gore would have prioritized had he won. This highlights the importance of considering the broader implications of your voting decisions, especially in close elections.
The 2016 election was contentious and many factors influenced the outcome. Jill Stein’s candidacy and divisions among Bernie Sanders supporters likely influenced the final outcome. It is crucial to reflect on what might have happened if things had gone differently. Recent turmoil and divisions highlight the importance of carefully considering the consequences of voting decisions.
This year, the effort to get RFK Jr. on the ballot has been very deceptive. Many of the people collecting signatures for him, nationally and even here in Buncombe County, don’t mention RFK Jr. at all, and instead ask people to sign if they support an independent or progressive candidate on the ballot.
While the Kennedy name and legacy may be appealing to some, the majority of Kennedys are vehemently opposed to the candidacy of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. His ideas and policies are not consistent with the values traditionally associated with the Kennedy family. A vote for him could have disastrous unintended consequences. At this time, polls indicate that a vote for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. would very likely result in a victory for Donald Trump.
Voters must weigh their ideals against the realities of the current political climate. Perhaps a time will come when a third-party candidate has the knowledge, experience, and compelling message to be worthy of their vote. Unfortunately, now is not that time. Mr. Kennedy has little to offer other than his name and some extreme views that could harm our country.
Voting is indeed a sacred and personal privilege, allowing individuals to express their values and beliefs. But it is crucial to balance that expression with the practical implications of voting. This year, the stakes are very high. A Trump victory could lead to further attacks on our democratic institutions. That is why voters must carefully consider the broader implications of their choices at the ballot box.
The impact of the U.S. presidency on world affairs cannot be overstated. The president’s policies and actions have major implications, especially in conflict zones like Gaza and Ukraine. Trump’s approach could escalate tensions and make the situation worse in these regions. His history of aligning with authoritarian regimes raises concerns about his approach to international affairs. Many voters take these factors into account when considering the potential outcomes of their vote.
This year’s election may be historically close. Only an overwhelming popular vote victory can prevent a new onslaught of frivolous lawsuits challenging the results. This year, remember that no candidate can 100% align with the ideals and goals of all voters. You can be angry or opposed to some policies and actions while agreeing with many others. Democrats are making progress in education, gun safety, economic recovery, and climate protection while fighting to restore reproductive, LGBTQ+, and voting rights. If Democrats win the presidency and both houses of Congress, we will finally be able to enact more effective legislation in favor of working American families. I urge you to vote for candidates who support these values that are important to our great nation, rather than voting in protest and helping open the door to dictatorship.
more:RFK Jr. speaks to 600 in Asheville about housing, corporate control, Ukraine, but no Israel
more:Opinion: New York Times poll shows Trump ahead of Biden in 2024, but it’s too early to tell
Kathy Klein is the chairwoman of the Buncombe County Democratic Party. She and her husband, Robert Klein, have lived in Asheville for more than 40 years. A former teacher and ceramicist, Klein splits her time between spending time with her four young grandchildren and volunteering to help ensure their futures.
