Local Libertarians back ballot access bill | Local | mywebtimes.com – MyWebTimes.com

A local Libertarian Party leader supports a bill that would make it easier for third-party candidates to get on ballots.

The legislation would put independent and minor party candidates on a level playing field with Republicans and Democrats.

According to a Libertarian news release, the proposal seeks to bring fairness by making signature requirements more equal and setting the rules for becoming a political party on the same level as other Midwestern states.

The average percentage of votes required to become legally recognized in the United States is 2 percent, lower than Illinois' 5 percent. The bill would move the state's percentage to 2 percent.

In November's election, Libertarian Party presidential candidate Gary Johnson received 1.3 percent of La Salle County's vote, while Green Party candidate Jill Stein got 1.1 percent.

Jenae Wise, chairwoman of the Illinois Valley Libertarian Party, said third parties are important in American politics.

"They are there to keep the two parties accountable," she said. "They come together as one to increase government more and more."

She said she spoke with state Rep. David Welter, R-Morris, who represents portions of eastern La Salle County. He became the second representative to sponsor it.

In a phone interview, Welter said he wants to improve ballot access.

"I run as a Republican and supports the party's ideals, but I hope that in the future we'll see more than the two major political parties," he said.

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Local Libertarians back ballot access bill | Local | mywebtimes.com - MyWebTimes.com