Third Party

A third party is a political party other than the two major parties that dominate U.S. national politics. Third parties may nominate candidates and advocate policy positions, but ballot access and electoral outcomes depend on state and federal election rules.

Example: The Libertarian Party and Green Party have nominated candidates for federal office and appeared on ballots under applicable state rules.

Common misconception: Third parties are prohibited by the Constitution or never influence politics. They can participate in elections, and their influence may include shaping debate and major-party platforms even when they do not win office.

Sources: https://www.fec.gov/introduction-campaign-finance/election-and-voting-information/; https://www.usa.gov/register-to-vote