Does America Need a Third Party?

1. Set Focus
Frame the inquiry with this essential question: What is the role of a political party in a democracy?

2. Read and Discuss
Have students read the debate and then answer the following questions:

• What is the issue being debated? How does it relate to current events? (The issue is whether the U.S. needs a third major political party. The issue is timely because 2024 is a presidential election year.)

• Evaluate why these two authors might be interested in and qualified to comment on this issue. (David Hess is the treasurer of the Oregon Progressive Party, which is an alternative to the Democratic and Republican parties. Daniel DiSalvo is a professor of political science at City College of New York.)

• Analyze Hess’s view. (Hess argues that America needs a third party. He says that a third party would help give a voice to half of U.S. citizens who are neither Democrat nor Republican. He also says that third parties are important agents for change. In addition, he says that a third party would help restore our faith in government.)

• Analyze DiSalvo’s view. (DiSalvo argues against a third party. He says the existing system already allows for diversity of representation. He also says that a two-party system usually produces a clear winner, with no need for deals for power. Furthermore, he says a third party would draw away votes, facilitating wins for candidates who may otherwise have lost.) 

4. Writing Prompt
In an essay, evaluate one of the debaters’ arguments. Assess whether the reasoning is valid and whether it’s supported with evidence. Point out biases or missing information.

5. Classroom Debate
Does America need a third major party? Have students use the authors’ ideas, as well as their own, in a debate.

6. Vote
Go online to vote in Upfront’s poll—and see how students across the country voted.