I'm not a third party harpy, but i've been thinking a lot about them lately.
I don't necessarily disagree that true change has usually come from within and that those who believe such things have gotten their way on election day. I also recognize that some on the left have gone way beyond the bitterness of 2008 and seem to have nothing left but going out of their way in finding something to criticize about Obama on a regular basis. With those stipulations out of the way on to third parties.
Those seeking the change they feel has yet to happen were met with derision, condensation and on the worst days, claims of racism when they sought this change. Much of that derision and condensation is still going on (yes it goes both ways - see paragraph one). Simply put, a portion of the left doesn't feel welcome in the democratic party anymore. It is not hard to see why they venture into foreign terroritory when the same people who insist change can only come through them scoff at those who seek it. The same ones who insist the less leverage they have, the more they can make Obama accomplish.
Maybe they're right. We're about to find out. But to those who think the disenfranchised on the left have childish and unrealistic expectations you should understand something: they don't. They believe their beliefs are just as valid and acheivable as the rest of the belief-holders. They believe they should at least have the chance to try and find out. This was a change election for them as well. and they're going to look for that change wherever they can, no matter who it's politically inconvenient for.
Food for thought if nothing else.
[Update] To be clear, I'm not approving or disapproving of their methods or motives. I'm simply trying to understand and clarify them.
[Update x2] Yes, yes, yes. I know voting 3rd party is not productive towards the Democratic party. Hence the opening paragraphs. I think I've made that perfectly clear that I understand the futility of voting 3rd party. I'm trying to elaborate on why those voters feel the need to do so despite that. I'm trying to have a discussion, not a Sermon. Please feel free to do the same.