Third-party candidates are individuals running for political office who are not affiliated with the two major political parties, typically the Democratic Party and the Republican Party. These candidates often represent alternative viewpoints and policies that may not be fully addressed by the major parties, appealing to voters seeking different options. In the United States, third-party candidates can influence elections by drawing votes away from major party candidates, potentially affecting the outcome. Examples of third-party movements include the Green Party, which focuses on environmental issues, and the Libertarian Party, which emphasizes individual liberties and limited government.