2.1 Why Can't Third Parties Take Off

What is one reason why third parties struggle to gain traction in U.S. elections?

• They have too much media coverage.

• They receive excessive federal funding.

• They face institutional barriers in the election system.

• They have a large voter base.

According to Duverger's Law, what happens in a winner-take-all election system?

• Multiple parties thrive equally.

• Two major parties are likely to dominate.

• Third parties often win.

• All parties receive equal votes.

What percentage of support must a party have to qualify for national polls according to the CPD?

• 10%

• 5%

• 15%

• 20%

Why might voters turn to third-party candidates according to the text?

• Major party candidates have low unfavorability ratings.

• Major party candidates have high unfavorability ratings.

• Third-party candidates have more funding.

• Third-party candidates have more media coverage.

What is a challenge third parties face in terms of fundraising?

• They have more sophisticated operations.

• They receive more federal funding.

• They lack the same fundraising capabilities as major parties.

• They have too many donors.

What is one goal of third-party candidates despite their challenges?

• To win the presidency.

• To raise awareness about their candidates and beliefs.

• To eliminate major parties.

• To receive more federal funding.

Who are two third-party candidates mentioned in the text?

• Donald Trump and Joe Biden

• Teddy Roosevelt and Ross Perot

• Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders

• George Bush and Al Gore

What is one reason third parties might not be included in polls?

• They have a large base.

• They get a lot of media attention.

• They don't have a large base.

• They are always included.

What is the role of the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD)?

• To fund third-party campaigns.

• To set qualifying criteria for debates.

• To eliminate major parties.

• To organize media coverage.

What is a potential outcome for third parties even if they don't win elections?

• Gaining traction in the electorate.

• Receiving more federal funding.

• Eliminating major parties.

• Winning the presidency.