All About Third Parties in America: Which "Minor" Political Party Do You Most Agree With?

Third and minority parties (that is other than the two main parties - Democratic and Republican) have historically always played a part in American politics. Just in the last decade, nearly a dozen or so new political parties have been established. Some of these have nominated candidates for national office, while others have focused mostly upon local and state politics. Whether they've sponsored political candidates or not, third parties are passionate about their platforms and positions on political issues.

Most voters you talk with would affiliate themselves with either the Democratic or Republican Parties. Possibly this is because many of them know very little about the other parties. Maybe it's time to take a closer look at these minority groups.

Do you believe that government is too big? Would you like to see less governmental control and power? If so, you may best fit into one of the following minor parties:

Boston Tea Party - This party is evidence that even third parties succumb to disagreements and party splits. In 2006 this group was formed from the Libertarian Party. Their political position is simple - decrease local, state and federal government in both size, power and responsibility.

The Libertarian Party - Known most for their position concerning the legalization of drugs, the Libertarian Party promotes an agenda of individual responsibility and self reliance. Additionally, the Libertarian Party believes in one's right to make their own choice when it comes to personal issues such as abortion, home schooling and gay marriage.

Many support the Republican party because they believe that it best represents their "Christian" and moral values. Partially this is because of the Republican Parties position concerning abortion and gay marriage. Nonetheless, morality and family are not the core of the Republican agenda.

The Constitution Party - The core of the Constitution Party is one of faith and commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ. In its pre-amble, the Constitution Party states "that the foundation of our political position and moving principle of our political activity is our full submission and unshakable faith in our Savior and Redeemer, our Lord Jesus Christ".

America First Party - This party has a very strong conservative and traditional agenda. They are pro-life, anti-gay marriage and in support of returning America to its religious roots.

Do you have strong concerns about protecting the environment?

The Green Party USA - The Green Party is an international political party established based upon several core principles including environmentalism and personal/global responsibility. The Green Party USA is a part of that international movement. As a part of their national agenda, the Green Party advocates reducing the use of gas and oil and moving toward the use of more environmentally friendly energy sources such as hydrogen. They also encourage the use of other means of transportation including walking, bicycling or mass transit.

If you would like to see political reform, you may want to take a closer look at:

The Reform Party - Best known for its founder and 1996 Presidential Candidate Ross Perot, the Reform Party has become a strong influence in the political arena. In 1998, Reform Party candidate Jesse Ventura was elected as Governor of the state of Minnesota, and the party has supported both Pat Buchanan and Ralph Nader in their quest for the Presidency. In regards to reform, The Reform Party advocates a change in the Presidential election process. They would like to do away with the electoral college and elect the President via popular vote.

Many of these parties have presented nominees for the 2008 Presidential election. Nonetheless, some of these parties are struggling to get their candidates on all of the state ballots.