No Labels, a centrist group working towards launching a bipartisan, third-party 2024 presidential ticket, faced a difficult week with the announcement that Chris Christie would not join their “unity” ticket and the death of their founding co-chair, Joe Lieberman. Lieberman was a key advocate for a third-party ticket and believed that Americans were not interested in a 2024 rematch between President Biden and former President Donald Trump. Despite warnings from Democrats that a No Labels ticket could help Trump, Lieberman emphasized that their goal is not to elect either of the former presidents.
Several high-profile politicians, including Larry Hogan, Brian Kemp, and Joe Manchin, declined to join a 2024 No Labels ticket. Speculation surrounded former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley, but she also rejected the idea. Christie, a vocal critic of Trump, conducted polling before deciding not to join a third-party ticket. New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu was also courted, but he repeatedly declined to participate, citing his lack of interest in serving on a third-party ticket.
Concerns over helping Trump through a third-party run have contributed to the hesitancy of potential candidates to join a No Labels ticket. Running for president is a significant commitment, and without a clear path to victory, many are not willing to make the sacrifice. Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who polls higher than other third-party contenders, poses a challenge to No Labels’ efforts to establish a bipartisan ticket.
Despite setbacks, No Labels continues to work towards obtaining ballot access in various states. Lieberman had announced the formation of a committee to vet potential contenders for the ticket, with plans for a National Nominating Convention later in the spring. If suitable candidates are not found, the group will not offer their ballot line to anyone. The death of Lieberman has dealt a blow to the organization, but they remain focused on their mission of creating a bipartisan third-party ticket for the 2024 presidential election.
