Media Speculates No Labels 2024 Ticket as Group Advances Third-Party Bid

The No Labels organization cleared another hurdle this week in its quest to run a third-party, centrist presidential candidate.

Details: On Thursday, the Associated Press (Lean Left bias) learned that former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R) stepped down from his leadership role at No Labels. AP reported that Hogan’s decision “could signal his preparations to run for president using the group’s ballot line.” Coverage from the Washington Examiner (Lean Right bias) echoed this speculation. The reports coincided with No Labels announcing this week that the group met the 10,000 signatures threshold to potentially run a third-party presidential ticket in Maryland, Hogan’s home state.

Christie? Outlets across the spectrum are also reporting that No Labels has reached out to former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who suspended his campaign for the Republican presidential nomination earlier this week. The group is reportedly interested in Christie joining a third-party “unity ticket.”

How the Media Covered It: The Associated Press framed No Labels’ potential third-party presidential bid as a threat to the Democratic Party, reporting that the group’s efforts have “spooked many Democrats and other Trump critics who fear it would siphon votes that would otherwise go to Democratic President Joe Biden and facilitate Trump’s return to the White House.” The Baltimore Sun (Center bias) cast doubt on No Label’s chances, reporting that third-party efforts have “historically come up far short of the major parties in Maryland and nationally.”