Ralph Nader (I) held a campaign rally at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and discussed the role of third party candidates in the electoral process.

Discussion Questions

1. Has Mr. Nader ever run for President? If so, when? Who is his running mate in this election? Why is Mr. Nader running for President?
2. What is the significance of former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill's quote, "it is better to fight when you have a small chance, than to have to fight later when you don’t have any chance at all”? Why does Mr. Nader reference this quote? What is “political bigotry”?
3. Mr. Nader says, "it is harder than ever now to get on the ballot." How does a Presidential candidate go about getting his/her name on a ballot? Why might this be difficult?
4. Mr. Nader mentions the importance of broadcast media. According to Mr. Nader, from Labor Day to Election day during the 2000 Presidential election, how much time did major media outlets devote to covering his presidential campaign? Why do you think this is? Explain your answer.
5. What effects does Mr. Nader suggest his candidacy has and will have on this election? In a close race between the Republican and Democratic presidential candidates, how can a Third Party candidate affect the final election results?