No Labels, a centrist group aiming to promote unity in politics, is making strides towards forming a bipartisan presidential ticket for the 2024 election. The group is set to announce the selection process for potential candidates in November’s general election. Former Republican Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan of Georgia is reportedly in discussions to lead this so-called “unity” ticket. No Labels recently held a virtual meeting where its roughly 800 delegates voted to support the idea of a presidential ticket. The group’s national convention chair, Mike Rawlings, stated that they had voted near unanimously to continue their 2024 project and move forward with identifying candidates. The selection process will be announced on March 14.
No Labels has been considering a third-party ticket for over a year, as polls have indicated that many Americans are not enthusiastic about a rematch between President Biden and former President Trump in the 2024 election. The group had previously stated that they would make a decision following Super Tuesday, when 16 states held nominating primaries and caucuses. The recent vote took place three days after Super Tuesday, where Biden and Trump secured enough delegates to become their party’s presumptive nominees.
Former two-term Republican Gov. Larry Hogan of Maryland, who was once considered a potential contender for the “unity” ticket, recently announced his run for an open Senate seat in his home state, removing himself from consideration. Moderate Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, another former leader of No Labels, has also stated that he will not run for president. Speculation had also surrounded former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, who ended her 2024 GOP presidential nomination run last week. However, Haley has repeatedly stated that she would not join a No Labels ticket, as she identifies as a conservative Republican.
The focus now appears to be on Geoff Duncan, a former healthcare executive and Georgia lieutenant governor. Duncan gained national attention for speaking out against Trump’s baseless claims of voter fraud in Georgia following the 2020 election. He faced threats for his public opposition to Trump, which led to the need for state trooper protection. Duncan decided against seeking re-election in 2022 and launched “GOP 2.0” to steer the Republican Party away from Trump.
No Labels has faced criticism from Democrats who believe that a third-party ticket would benefit Trump in the general election. However, the group maintains that its goal is not to elect either Trump or Biden but to promote unity in politics. No Labels is already on the ballot in 16 states and is working to obtain access in 17 other states.
Overall, No Labels’ efforts to form a bipartisan presidential ticket for the 2024 election are progressing, with discussions underway with potential candidates. The group aims to provide an alternative to the Democratic and Republican nominees and promote unity in politics.
