It has been mentioned by several political observers that 2012 may see a strong three-way race for President in next year’s election. If that happens, it will be one of the most “tumultuous” elections in U.S. history or at least since the days of a third party movement during the 1960s featuring Alabama Governor George C. Wallace. Interestingly, the Tea Party movement appeals to the same voters today as Wallace did then and that’s seen as bad news for the Republican Party. I don’t believe the Tea Party zealots will be able to force the GOP to nominate a candidate who both appeals to the Tea Party and can actually win. That combination simply won’t work. If the GOP has to nominate a Tea Party lobbyist, its nominee would certainly lose. So it appears the stage is set for a three-way race for President next year. Remember – if the votes are split three ways – a person with 34% could be the next President. Based on what I’m hearing, that appeals to my friends in the Tea Party.