So, it looks like
Nader might be running for President again, this time as an Independent rather than a Green. I've heard all kinds of nastiness thrown his way since this came about the other day, and I'd like to pontificate a bit, if I may. Let me explain something to you folks who don't want him to run.
I don't like the idea either. Nader took alot of votes away from Gore in 2000, especially in Florida, which cost Gore the win. However, there are a few reasons why I don't think Nader's running will be a problem. I'll just list three here.
- He'll have significantly less votes this time around. Nader knows this. Most people who voted for him in 2000 are more worried about getting Bush out than who actually gets in. I voted Libertarian in 2000, but I'm sure as hell voting Democrat this time, even though I don't necessarily love everything the Dems have to say. I'm sure that is true for more than just myself.
- Nader's probably not even going to get on the ballot in every state, considering he doesn't have the Greens behind him this time. That's an important point, and one that will make a big difference. Write-in candidates don't seem to get a bunch of numbers.
- This is a Democracy. I understand why you folks don't think Nader should run, but honestly, we NEED more than two parties in this country. Perhaps if Nader does take alot of votes away from the Democrats this year, people will start to realize that. I understand that he has a chance of hurting the country by helping Bush back in this time, but seriously folks, he has every right in the world to run. You can dislike it, but it's his right, and he's not doing anything wrong by running.
Besides, I don't know if you guys have realized this, but it's not even certain that he will run. Arnold's folks were saying right up until he announced his candidacy in California that he wasn't running, then he did run. Maybe Nader's going to go on Meet the Press tomorrow and announce that he's supporting Kucinich or something, ok? So just chill.
Read more of my thoughts at Dirty Greek dot Org