No Labels, a third-party presidential movement, has decided to nominate a presidential candidate for the 2024 election after considering the launch of a “unity ticket” and having discussions with various potential candidates.
At an online convention attended by 800 delegates from all states, the decision to move forward was supported, according to Mike Rawlings, a former Dallas mayor associated with No Labels.
No Labels was not expected to announce its presidential and vice presidential nominees on Friday. Instead, the group plans to reveal its candidate selection process on March 14, as stated by Rawlings.
Rawlings, who chaired the convention on Friday, expressed that despite the virtual nature of the meeting, the delegates' passion and determination to reunite the divided nation came across clearly.
Several potential candidates, including former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, have declined the idea of running, with Haley suspending her campaign for the Republican presidential nomination after Donald Trump's significant wins on Super Tuesday's GOP primary map.
Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan had considered running for president under the No Labels banner but has opted to seek the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate from his state. Additionally, retiring West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin, a Democrat, has stated he will not run for president.
The decision to move forward comes as a number of would-be candidates have already turned down the idea of running, including former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, who suspended her campaign for the Republican presidential nomination after former President Donald Trump won big across Super Tuesday’s GOP primary map.
Supporters of President Biden are concerned that No Labels may draw votes away from the president in battleground states, and they are critical of the group's lack of transparency regarding its donors and decision-making processes.
MoveOn, a group aligned with Democrats, believes that a No Labels ticket would benefit Trump's chances of winning a second term.
Executive Director Rahna Epting of MoveOn stated in a written statement that any candidates joining the No Labels presidential ticket would be aiding Donald Trump and MAGA extremists in securing a second term in the White House.
Third Way, another group aligned with Democrats that opposes a No Labels ticket, pointed out that No Labels is moving forward without having secured a candidate.
Third Way's Executive Vice President Matt Bennett expressed in a written statement that voters, candidates, and election experts have repeatedly informed No Labels that a third-party presidential ticket cannot win and would assist Trump.
No Labels had been considering whether to present a ticket that would appeal to voters unhappy with Biden and Trump. The group's strategists have indicated that they will offer their ballot line to a bipartisan ticket, with a presidential nominee from one major party and a vice presidential nominee from the other, if they see a path to victory.
Group officials have mentioned that they are in contact with several potential candidates but have not revealed any names.
No Labels has collected money from undisclosed individuals, including previous Republican supporters disheartened by the party’s shift during the Trump administration, and has aimed to get on the ballot in all states.
No Labels’ choice was initially disclosed by Politico.