The Apology of Nader’s Raiders: Third Parties, Speech Acts, and Moral Obligations in the Voting Booth

Abstract

Using the 2000 American presidential election as a case study, this paper considers the question of how third party supporters ought to cast their vote when their vote may result in the least preferable candidate winning. Examining the appeals made by Nader and Gore to Nader supporters, Johnson argues that one can claim obligations to vote either sincerely or strategically. He demonstrates that voters are obligated to do both when possible, but must rely on their consciences when it is not. Institutional arrangements may help minimize such moral conflicts.

Recommended Citation

Johnson, Jeffrey Alan (2004) "The Apology of Nader’s Raiders: Third Parties, Speech Acts, and Moral Obligations in the Voting Booth," The Forum: Vol. 2 : Iss. 2, Article 7.
DOI: 10.2202/1540-8884.1031
Available at: http://www.bepress.com/forum/vol2/iss2/art7