Explain why the public was attracted to candidates Theodore Roosevelt and Ross Perot, and describe the impact these candidates had on the elections of 1912 and 1992, respectively.

Third parties can spoil the election for the incumbent, just as Roosevelt’s and Perot’s parties spoiled the elections of 1912 and 1992, respectively.

Third parties are strengthened when people are dissatisfied with the incumbent.

People were dissatisfied with Taft for acting conservatively and with Bush for breaking his campaign promise.

Third parties are more successful when the country is ready for change.

The public was attracted to the candidates due to their views on public policy and government reform.