by Ron McCann
Several years ago, during the Ross Perot era, I published a small newspaper called The Rational Guard. One of the most-read articles was titled, “If It's a Two-Party System, Shouldn't We Be Having More Fun?” The article was partly in response to Perot's third-party challenge and expressed concerns about potential problems caused by the passage of NAFTA.

Fast forward 28 years, and all I can say is, “Turn out the lights, the parties are over.” In 1963, the goals of the communist party were read to the U.S. Congress in a document titled "45 Communist Goals from 58 Years Ago - Ethan Allen Institute." It seems they have succeeded in their objectives.

What “We The People” do next will determine the future of the world's population. The ball is in our court.

Understanding the Current Political Landscape: An Overview of Diverse Yet Connected Topics
In recent years, the landscape of American politics has undergone significant transformations, hinting at a growing discontent among voters with the traditional two-party system. This shift became particularly evident during the Ross Perot era, whose third-party challenge in the 1992 presidential election underscored the potential for alternative candidates to make a substantial impact. Perot's candidacy, which garnered a remarkable 19% of the popular vote, highlighted the American electorate's frustrations with the status quo and their willingness to explore options beyond the Democrat and Republican nominees. His campaign brought attention to various issues, most notably the national debt and trade policy, setting the stage for discussions that remain relevant today.

Another pivotal topic in contemporary discourse is the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which took effect in 1994. The agreement aimed to eliminate trade barriers between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, promoting increased commerce and economic integration. However, the debate over NAFTA's implications has been contentious, with critics arguing that it has led to job losses and wage stagnation in the U.S., while proponents assert that it has benefited the economy by opening new markets and increasing competitiveness. Understanding the context and potential implications of NAFTA is crucial for grasping the complexities of global trade and economic policy.

The conversation around the two-party system and its alternatives was further enlivened by the article "If It's a Two-Party System, Shouldn't We Be Having More Fun?" which offered a satirical yet insightful critique of political polarization. The piece underscored the dissatisfaction of many Americans with the existing political framework, suggesting that a more vibrant and diverse political discourse could lead to more engaged and satisfied citizens.

In addition to third-party challenges and trade policies, the history and goals of the Communist Party in the U.S. provide a fascinating lens through which to explore alternative political ideologies. Despite never achieving significant electoral success, the Communist Party has played a role in advocating for workers' rights, racial equality, and various social reforms. Understanding this history sheds light on the broader spectrum of political beliefs and movements that have shaped American society.

The document "45 Communist Goals" further complicates the narrative, as it allegedly outlines the strategy for communism to infiltrate and overthrow American democracy. Although the authenticity and seriousness of these goals have been debated, their circulation has impacted discussions around national security, ideology, and the definition of American values in the context of the Cold War and beyond.

Today, the current state of political parties globally reveals a landscape marked by volatility and change. Across the world, traditional political structures are being challenged by new movements that reflect widespread dissatisfaction with the status quo. This dynamic environment raises questions about the future of democracy, representation, and governance, necessitating a deep dive into the factors driving these shifts.

Finally, the statement "Turn out the lights, the parties are over" encapsulates a sentiment of disillusionment with the political process, suggesting a need for significant reforms if democracy is to remain vibrant and relevant. As we reflect on these implications and consequences, it becomes clear that the evolution of political parties and the search for more inclusive, representative systems are crucial for meeting the challenges of the 21st century.

In conclusion, these diverse but interrelated topics offer a comprehensive understanding of the current political landscape. The insights gathered not only inform an insightful analysis of the state of political parties and democracy today but also stimulate a thoughtful discussion about the future of governance and citizen engagement in an increasingly complex world.