The Legacy of Thomas Jefferson: America's Third President

Thomas Jefferson, a spokesman for democracy, was an American Founding Father, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence (1776), and the third President of the United States. He was born on April 13, 1743, in Shadwell, Virginia, and died on July 4, 1826, at Monticello, his estate in Virginia. Jefferson was a multifaceted figure, known for his contributions to politics, philosophy, and architecture.

As the third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson took office in 1801 and served two terms until 1809. During his presidency, Jefferson oversaw the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which doubled the size of the United States. He also founded the University of Virginia, initiated the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and championed religious freedom.

There was no shortage of people running for president when the campaign began, all laboring under the shadow of the same two men who faced off in the previous election. Joe Biden and Donald Trump are the two major party candidates in the 2024 presidential election, but dozens of other people have filed to run. However, the history and impact of Thomas Jefferson as America's third president continue to resonate in the national conversation.

Sixty-three percent of Americans say a third U.S. political party is needed, up from 56% a year ago and by one percentage point the highest in recent years. Despite claims that voters deserve alternatives, the reality is that third-party candidates may well cement the election of the person they least support, as seen in past elections.

The third debate marks the first time a Jewish group is cosponsoring a national debate in the US. The Republican Jewish Coalition's decision to participate highlights the diverse perspectives and voices present in American politics. Additionally, the centrist political group No Labels has confirmed that it will no longer pursue a third-party candidate to run for office, signaling a shift in political strategy.

U.S. Representative Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of ex-President Donald Trump, said she is weighing a third-party bid for the White House. Cheney's potential candidacy reflects the ongoing debate within the Republican Party and broader political landscape. On this day in 1951, the 22nd Amendment was ratified, limiting the number of terms served by the President. The move ended a controversy surrounding presidential term limits.