In the mid-1800s, a new political party flared up in American politics, posing as an alternative to both the Democratic and Republican parties.

Xenophobic and nativist, it was extremely secretive with outsiders about its specific structure, motive, and agenda.  Indeed, members were instructed to say “I know nothing” when asked about details – thus it was quickly dubbed the Know-Nothing Party. In 1856, it nominated Millard Filmore as its presidential nominee, but he was reticent to talk about the party, even refraining from running as an avowed party member. He lost, and the Know-Nothings soon withered.

Yet, here comes another oddly-secretive party. Labeling themselves “No Labels,” this reincarnation ought to be named the Nothing Party, for it offers nothing of substance to voters. Its so-called “Common Sense Agenda” is fluffier than cotton candy, yet, it’s trying to run a third party candidate in next year’s presidential race.

Why? Follow the money! That’s not easy to do, though, for this gaggle of conservative corporatists slyly incorporated as a nonprofit “social welfare” outfit – a deceit that lets it hide the names of its political funders from the public. The New Republic, however, got records revealing that No Labels is a fat cat front, with Texas billionaire Republican Harlan Crow leading the way.

Who? Crow is the political patron who has secretly been lavishing luxury gifts and cash on Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, who in turn has embraced Crow’s plutocratic positions in court cases.

That same plutocratic agenda appears to be fueling No Labels third-party presidential push, for these rich politicos know that a milquetoast spoiler candidate would mostly draw independent moderates from Joe Biden, giving Crow & Company another GOP corporate presidency. It’s a cynical game… but that’s how they play it.

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