It was interesting that in all the columns and letters about unopposed political races ("Wanted: Candidates," Forum, July 25), no one mentioned the lack of access for third parties. In our history, many of the issues that define us as a nation were brought up for debate by third parties.

The major parties of the time had no intention in tackling abolition of slavery or passing child labor laws until third parties made the issues unavoidable. Today, no one would be talking about genetically modified foods or campaign finance reform if not for third parties.

But third parties and the access they provide to citizens are being systematically shut out. The rules and requirements for third parties to run a candidate are much tougher than the requirements for the two major parties. Not only the rules, but the media attitude makes it tough. For example, the Enquirer paid little attention to a third-party candidate for Ohio governor, John Eastman, in the 2002 election.

In 2000, I ran for state representative in District 31 for the Natural Law Party. My whole budget was maybe $150, and I got 900 votes, about 3 percent; I was thrilled. Four of us ran in that race - Democratic incumbent Catherine Barrett, Republican Joanne Kemmerer, Libertarian Autumn Mueller and I. Because of the third parties, there was a debate, and we at least brought up issues for Barrett, who won re-election easily, to consider.

People asked me over and over, "Why are you running? You can't win." But every time I spoke at a community forum, someone came up and said my message resonated with them, and they were glad someone was bringing up the issues that the major parties wouldn't touch.

I consider myself a very concerned and thoughtful voter, but when the only choices I'm given do not reflect me, and I must always vote for "least objectionable," it is hard to stay involved and believe that my vote makes a difference.

Loosening up the laws for third parties, or even encouraging third parties to participate in government, would allow and encourage many people to become involved in politics. And I guarantee there would not be an uncontested race anywhere.

But of course it would never happen - what interest would the Democratic and Republican parties have in allowing competition?

Mary Lynne Schuster of College Hill is an early childhood trainer, preschool teacher and full-time parent.

Send your column or proposed topic, 400 words or fewer, along with a photo of yourself, to assistant editorial editor Ray Cooklis at rcooklis@enquirer.com; (513) 768-8525.