minor party

American  

noun

1. a political party with so little electoral strength that its chance of gaining control of the government is slight.

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Etymology

Origin of minor party

First recorded in 1650–60

Example Sentences

Enforcing the rule also would be a major headache for TV stations as all legally qualified candidates on minor party tickets could ask for airtime.

From Los Angeles Times

Among voters who were against the ballot initiative and for Gascón, 74% were Democrats while the remaining were independents or registered with a minor party.

From Los Angeles Times

Seymour, who is Māori, heads up the minor party that formed a coalition government with other conservative parties in 2023.

From Salon

The majority said the disputed email was “an unfortunate mistake” but noted the state employee had directed the Green Party to the “Minor Party Qualification Guide,” which set out the required forms for gathering signatures.

From Los Angeles Times

"Minor party candidates cannot withdraw, so his name will remain on the ballot in the November election," Cheri Hardmon, a spokesperson for Michigan's secretary of state, said in a statement to The Detroit News.

From Salon

Related Words

• mediator