Stein For President
Heba akhdar | Nov. 5, 2024 | Opinions
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) — During the 2024 United States presidential election, candidates seek to convince voters to support them on their quest to assume the country’s highest political office. While most voters focus on the Democratic and Republican nominees, there is a political category of candidates who are constantly overlooked: third-parties. A third-party candidate is a politician who runs in the election separate from the Democrats and Republicans. In the 2024 presidential race, one candidate particularly, Jill Stein, is breaking the stigma around voting third-party.
Even though these candidates are typically not projected to win elections, voting third-party is still a vital option for citizens to express their beliefs. As the Green Party’s nominee, Jill Stein is the most credible contender aiming for the presidency. The Green Party was first established in 1984, when separate states joined together to become one functioning political party with a strong focus on developing and supporting new eco-social policies. Additionally, The Green Party and Stein show concern for both American citizens and oppressed people abroad such as Ukrainians and Palestinians as they face severe conditions due to ongoing conflict and increased hostilities.
Stein is unafraid to support unpopular movements such as advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza, which, according to The Hill, may have led to an increase in her poll numbers in this year’s election. The 2024 presidential election is not Stein’s first time on the ballot; she also ran during the 2012 and 2016 elections. Although she did not win, she had a notable impact on the 2016 election, as votes that would have gone to then Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton went to her. Voters dissatisfied with the Democratic and Republican parties took the initiative to vote for a candidate they agreed with and supported, leading to this increase in votes. These numbers assert her presence and influence in presidential elections. Although some may be quick to count Stein out of contention, her impact on the election should not be undermined. She could be the deciding factor on who obtains the presidency during this presidential race.
The policies and movements Stein promotes display her dedication to ensuring economic, political, and social equality for all. According to her campaign website, she plans to raise the minimum wage to $25 per hour, establish free graduate education, and create a free healthcare program for all American citizens. This would guarantee a better quality of life for American citizens that previous presidents and politicians were unable to secure. In addition, her campaign also focuses on establishing a “Green New Deal” which would address climate change and environmental concerns around the country. In this way, Stein considers the future of America and will leave a legacy of environmental awareness within the country.
Considering the significant improvements Stein could facilitate within the U.S., she should not be underestimated during the 2024 presidential election, especially since her domestic and foreign policies reflect the concerns of the American people. Her platform centers around advocating for people of all nations, the planet, and peace. As the most progressive candidate, Stein can facilitate change and improvement within this country if given the chance.