Green Party: We're at a Disadvantage

Article on HOI 19 Online by Laura Michels on July12, 2006.

Green Party: We're at a Disadvantage
by Laura Michels
HOI 19 Online
July 12, 2006

Third-party candidates say they have their work cut out for them when it comes to ballot access when running for state office.

Phil Huckleberry, co-chair of the Illinois Green Party, said third-party candidates have to get 25,000 signatures to get on the ballot.

Compare this to 5,000 signatures required for Republican and Democratic candidates.

Huckleberry said the requirements are a way to keep only a two-party system in power.

“Our feeling is it should be equal because, although 25,000 is five times more than 5,000, it’s much more than five times harder because your first 5,000 are always the easiest,” Huckleberry said.

Huckleberry said six Green Party candidates are running for statewide offices.

He's waiting to hear if the signatures for all the candidates will be accepted.