How do minor parties typically influence national politics?

Minor parties often influence national politics by highlighting specific issues and concerns that may be overlooked by the major parties. While they might not win elections at the national level, they can be quite impactful at state and local levels, where they bring attention to particular causes or policies that resonate with certain constituents. This can lead to shifts in policy discussions and even compel major parties to adopt some of their ideas to capture the votes of those interested in those issues.

Minor parties may not always have a presidential candidate, as their focus can vary based on their resources and strategic priorities. Additionally, their influence is not strictly limited to regional issues, as they can advocate for broader national topics as well. It's the occasional dominance in local or state politics that allows them to enact changes and promote new ideas within the larger political framework, making them an important part of the overall political landscape.