Opinion: The need for a Centrist political party, part 1

For many years, the U.S. has had only two parties: the Democrats and Republicans. Most democracies have numerous parties, with our neighbor to the north having five. The U.S. is not functioning well at all with its two parties, and a third party would be most helpful. I am not alone in this appraisal. A significant majority of Americans express dissatisfaction with the two major parties, with recent polls (late 2025/early 2026) showing that around 60 to 62 percent believe that a third party is needed. This sentiment is consistent with growing numbers identifying as Independents (45 percent in early 2026). 

I have been a registered Democrat since the early ’70s, but I have often voted with “my nose closed” and have been known to cast my vote for Republicans. My son is a registered Independent, and I am considering following his choice. In the end, however, I would prefer having a third party that I could join. What characteristics might a third party have? Here are a few ideas:

• It would be a centrist party. For most of its existence, the Republican party was known for its concern with fiscal constraints. That trait hasn’t characterized the party for many years. Republicans talk much about fiscal responsibility, but the actions of the party do not match the rhetoric. Since President Franklin Roosevelt, the Democratic Party was known for its concern with the lower and middle classes, and in many instances, the party delivered. However, more recently, while Democrats deliver passionate speeches about inequality, their programs and actions often deliver very little. The items listed below suggest how a centrist party would incorporate some of the original goals of the two major parties, in addition to goals that both parties have not embraced.