Amidst growing speculation, No Labels co-founder Joe Lieberman clarifies that the centrist group has not yet decided whether to field a third-party presidential ticket in 2024, even if the major party nominees are President Biden and former President Trump. Lieberman stated in an interview with Fox News Digital that while the possibility is being considered, no final decision has been made.
The speculation intensified after the announcement that moderate Democratic Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia would be an honorary co-host of No Labels' "Common Sense" town hall in New Hampshire. Manchin's presence, along with that of former Republican Governor Jon Huntsman of Utah, fueled rumors of a potential Manchin presidential run on a No Labels ticket. However, Lieberman emphasized that both Manchin and Huntsman were invited due to their past involvement with the organization and their representation of centrist views within their respective parties.
No Labels has been exploring the possibility of a bipartisan "unity ticket" for months, particularly if the 2024 election becomes a rematch between Biden and Trump. Lieberman reiterated the group's goal of securing ballot access in all 50 states to maintain the option of running a ticket. He stressed that their intention is not to be spoilers but to offer a viable alternative and bring a centrist voice to the national conversation.
Lieberman acknowledged previous praise of Manchin, along with Senator Susan Collins and former Governor Larry Hogan, as potential candidates, but emphasized that no decisions have been made. He stated that a candidate search process will begin in the fall, considering a wide range of individuals beyond current and former elected officials.
No Labels has already raised over $30 million for its ballot access efforts. If a third-party run proceeds, the potential ticket would likely be announced at the group's national convention in Dallas, Texas next April.
Concerns about a potential spoiler effect have been raised by Democrats, with former House Democratic leader Richard A. Gephardt planning to launch a group opposing No Labels' efforts. Lieberman expressed disappointment in Gephardt's stance and argued that Democrats are overreacting, given current polling showing Trump either close to or ahead of Biden. He also raised concerns about potential efforts to block No Labels from accessing state ballots, viewing such actions as a violation of constitutional rights.
Lieberman emphasized that the New Hampshire town hall is focused on the group's "Common Sense" policy agenda, aiming to move American politics away from extremes and back towards a bipartisan center. He highlighted the group's polling and public conversations, suggesting that Americans are more united than the major parties portray. He believes No Labels offers a policy platform that neither major party would present, reflecting the majority opinion of the American people.
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