American University professor Allan J. Lichtman has developed a combination of historical facts and factors that together provide a context for the presidential campaign and an early indicator of the results.

The following is one of the 13 Keys to the White House he has devised. It takes a true or false answer. In the commentary section, you can also share your views on the related question.

Key 4 (Third party): There is no significant third party or independent campaign.

Tell us what you think. Do you feel third-party candidates are being left out? Are independent campaigns distractions or a natural part of the Democratic process? Once we have compiled your answers to all 13 keys, we will do a follow-up report on the results.

More: Campaign Watch: Keys to the White House | The 13 Keys