The centrist group No Labels has announced its intention to present a candidate for a third-party presidential ticket by Super Tuesday if it becomes clear that the choices will be former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden, and if there is significant public support for an alternative candidate.
This announcement, although cautious, marks a significant commitment from No Labels towards its unity-ticket project. It also highlights the group’s transition from a behind-the-scenes presence to a more visible force, causing concern among Democrats about the possibility of a third-party candidate spoiling Biden’s chances of reelection.
Democratic Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia, a co-headliner of Monday’s high-profile town hall event where the announcement was made, has fueled fears among Democrats. “I’ve never been in any race to spoil. I get into races to win. And if I get in the race, I’m going to win,” he stated. However, Manchin has not yet made a final decision about running.
The presence of Manchin and Republican Jon Huntsman at the event has drawn criticism from prominent New Hampshire Democrats. Rep. Annie Kuster labeled No Labels as a “spoiler” effort that could pave the way for Trump’s return to the White House. Another group, Citizens to Save Our Republic, comprising prominent Democrats and Republicans, including former House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and former Rep. Dick Gephardt, launched a super PAC specifically to counter No Labels. They cited internal polling suggesting that a No Labels candidate could tilt the election in favor of Trump.
The backlash against No Labels intensified on the same day as their event, with progressives accusing Manchin of playing footsie with the group, which they claim is funded by dark money and MAGA supporters. The centrist Third Way also criticized No Labels, stating that the group lacks serious ideas on reducing the national debt.
Despite the criticism, Pat McCrory, former North Carolina governor and No Labels collaborator, remains determined to proceed. “We’re going to get on the ballot,” McCrory affirmed. He dismissed the backlash as the efforts of Washington operatives wanting to maintain the status quo.
No Labels has unveiled its “Common Sense” policy agenda, inspired by Thomas Paine’s famous pamphlet. The agenda aims to reduce healthcare costs, regain control of national borders, and fix the criminal justice system. While concerns have been raised about No Labels potentially impacting the 2024 election outcome, the group’s centrist message resonates not only with Democrats but also with moderate Republicans and independents.
New Hampshire Democrats have expressed mixed reactions to No Labels’ presence in the state. Some attendees voiced concerns about the impact of a third-party candidate on the 2024 election, while others remain open to supporting a No Labels candidate depending on the ticket and poll numbers between Biden and Trump.
As the 2024 election approaches, the involvement of a third-party candidate may shape the political landscape and influence the outcome, making No Labels a force to be reckoned with.
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