No Labels, a bipartisan organization focused on promoting unity and centrist policies, held its first town hall in New Hampshire as part of its efforts to add a third-party candidate to the ballot in all 50 states for the 2024 presidential race. The event, which took place at St. Anselm College, featured discussions on pressing issues such as gun violence, climate change, mental health, and the nation’s debt.
The co-chairs of No Labels, Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) and former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman (R), addressed the audience and emphasized the need for candidates who can rise above the anger and divisiveness that currently plague politics. They called for new ideas and a departure from the extreme positions taken by the two major political parties.
Former Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.), one of the speakers at the event, explained that the purpose of No Labels is to reunite political parties and people, stop partisanship and incivility, and bring fresh perspectives to the table. The organization aims to gain ballot access and influence the agenda of politicians during primary season, providing voters with an alternative option.
While No Labels has received criticism from both Democrats and Republicans who oppose former President Donald Trump, accusing the organization of potentially boosting his chances in the 2024 race, Manchin and Huntsman argued that another option on the ballot is necessary. They believe that the political parties have become too extreme and that a centrist candidate can bridge the divide.
During the town hall, Manchin highlighted the nation’s debt as one of the biggest problems facing the country. He stressed the need for risk management and expressed concerns about the sustainability of Social Security and Medicare without more workers contributing to these programs.
The discussion also touched on the issue of trust in the democratic process, particularly in light of Trump’s false claims of election fraud. Manchin emphasized the importance of accepting the facts and moving on after an election, while Huntsman pointed out the role of external actors, such as Russians, in fueling polarization on social media platforms.
Gun violence was another topic addressed at the town hall. Manchin advocated for restrictions on access to guns for criminals and individuals with mental illness, while also emphasizing the need to protect children. Huntsman called for increased mental health awareness and support, particularly in schools and rural areas with high suicide rates among military veterans.
No Labels’ first town hall in New Hampshire provided a platform for discussions on important issues and the organization’s mission to promote unity and centrist policies. As the 2024 presidential race approaches, the organization aims to add a third-party candidate to the ballot in all 50 states, offering voters an alternative option to the two major political parties.
How does No Labels remain committed to its goal of creating a centrist alternative despite criticism
Positive attention for its efforts to bridge the political divide, it has also faced criticism from those who believe a third-party candidate could split votes and ultimately hurt the chances of one of the major parties winning the presidency. However, No Labels remains committed to its goal of creating a centrist alternative and bringing about positive change in American politics.
“Exciting to see bipartisan leaders like Joe Manchin and Jon Huntsman advocating for a third-party candidate in the 2024 Presidential Race! It’s time for fresh perspectives and the inclusion of diverse voices to shape our country’s future.”