Not Invited to the Party

From the reviews: "James T. Bennett analyzes the roots of political duopoly in this informative, although dense book. ... Bennett starts with the notion that The Founders distrusted political parties. ... This is very informative book, and you can feel Bennett's passion about this issue. ... I am still recommending this book to anyone who is interested in politics and the history of politics. ... I am moving this up to four stars. I have learnt a lot from this book." (Joanna, Goodreads, July, 2010) "This brief but dense book ... sets out to do what it is meant to do and does it extremely well, hence the four stars. Bennett gives a detailed look at why third parties have it so hard in the United State and how the two main parties, Democrats and Republicans, stack the field against any competition. ... This book may have a narrow interest factor but those who read it will have plenty of information to digest." (Marvin, Goodreads, July, 2010) "3.5 stars. ... some very powerful statements are in this book. For example, 'Three hundred million people. Two choices. It doesn't add up.' It's so true! I had no idea how many hoops these parties (other than R and D) have to jump through just to get their names on the ballot. ... Recommend this book to everyone, ESPECIALLY before elections." (Mandy McHenry, Goodreads, July, 2010)

• The Issue.- The American Suspicion of Parties.- No Competition Allowed or He Who Controls the Ballot Controls the Election.- Then Along Came FECA.- FECA: The Demopublicans' Best Friend.- The State Feeds the Party and the Party Feeds the State.- 2008: The Year of Change – Or Plus Ca Change…?.- Taking the Party Outside: Do Other Democracies Treat Third Parties and Independents Any Better?.- Conclusion: Pulling the Plug?.