Ralph Nader's name is not on the ballot in all states for the November General Election. Many Democratic strategists claim that Nader "cost" Gore the election in 2004 and if his name is included this year we could witness the same result. What is ironic about this perspective is President Clinton benefitted by having a 3rd spoiler candidate in 1992, H. Ross Perot. Nearly all of Perot's supporters were dissatisfied President Bush supporters. Also, in 1980, President Reagan won office with the aid of Independent Party nominee John Anderson. I find it disengenuous for anti-Nader critics to talk about excluding his name from the ballot yet insist, no demand, that ALL votes be counted. I guess all means all except Nader votes. This is nothing more than a form of political disenfranchisement but few have the guts to call it for what it is. Fortunately, the Florida Supreme Court by a 6-1 margin agreed that Nader's name should be on the FL ballot. Hypocrisy and selective amnesia is a dangerous combination. QED

-- Anonymous, September 30, 2004

Answers

I don't know why the Florida Court ruled the way they did, but I believe all candidates meeting the requirements should be on the ballot. In Ohio, the Secretary of State ruled that Nader will not be on the ballot because his supporters failed to submit enough valid signatures on his petition.

On a related subject, I find it interesting that there has not been any "grumblings" regarding the fact that the first debate is being held in Florida - a state which figured so prominently in the 2000 election and a state governed by the brother of one of the candidates. It's perfectly fine with me, but I just expected some howls of protest.

-- Anonymous, September 30, 2004

It is good to know that you and yours are well brother Dickens. Debates are alive and well on the board as observed today indicates. That is good as well! I agree that whoever meets the criteria to be on the ballot should, however my real question is where is Ralph Nador from anyways?:) Have great day everyone!

-- Anonymous, October 01, 2004