The "No Labels" group fails to nominate a unity candidate/ Withdraws from the presidential race

2024-04-14 21:45:34, Kosova & Bota CNA

The "No Labels" group fails to nominate a unity candidate/ Withdraws

Some American voters were waiting for the introduction of a third political party in the presidential race, before deciding on the Democratic or Republican candidate. Voice of America correspondent in Washington, Carolyn Presutti tells us about the thoughts of the voters after the political group "No Labels" gave up the plans to nominate two unity candidates.

The mission was simple. As the country headed for elections amid major divisions, the centrist group No Labels would nominate two unity candidates – a Republican and a Democrat.

"Right now, a growing number of Americans, perhaps a majority, feel excluded from the political process, neglected by the two major parties," said Ben Chavis, co-chair of the political group No Labels.

"No Labels" hoped to attract voters disaffected with Democrat Joe Biden and Republican Donald Trump.

"I don't want to see either of them in the White House next year," said John Sulkowsi, a South Carolina voter.

Funds were not a problem, as the "No Labels" group raised $60 million. But the challenge was who would run.

The third-party invitation was rejected by moderates like Democrat Joe Manchin. Former Republican governor Larry Hogan left the group to run for Senate. Former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley declined the offer. On Thursday, the group dropped the idea of ??a third candidate.

The voter is also left with several alternatives. The most famous figure is Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The independent candidate is hoping to get votes from both Democrats and Republicans.

"The goal is to get the votes of both," he says, referring to President Biden and Mr. Trump.

"We are ready for change. We are tired of Trump and Biden. We are ready for something new," says voter Margie Lynch.

Author Marianne Williamson is also running as a Democrat.

"We are all here, or many of us were, because we are upset and worried about this country," says Ms Williamson.

"I don't think there is a chance. But I want my voice to be heard by the Democratic Party, because some of us are not enthusiastic about the choices they are making," says Sophie Ahmed, a voter in Virginia.

Another candidate is activist Cornel West.

But American voters tend to gravitate toward familiar and major parties. This means a repeat of the race between Democrat Joe Biden and Republican Donald Trump.

"Sometimes I have a hard time choosing who is less harmful. "Sometimes I say maybe I shouldn't even vote," says Valerie Burnet, voter in South Carolina.

The two main candidates have six months to change the minds of Ms. Burnet, and others who think like her./ VOA