We discussed the role of third parties (minor parties) in politics by first identifying why third parties never win elections. On the board I noted : lack of monetary resources, single issue campaigns. candidate centered campaigns, and the absorption of third party ideas into the platforms of the two major parties. Further, we addressed how the "winner take all" system rather than proportional representation allows a plurality major party candidate to successfully achieve office without majority support . Matthew offered insights into why third parties rarely gain traction and discussed the prevailing debate over whether a vote for a third party candidate is a "wasted vote."