Amash teases possibility of third-party presidential bid

Rep. Justin Amash (I-Mich.) said he’s looking “closely” at a third-party presidential bid on Monday after blasting President Trump’s remarks at a coronavirus press briefing. 

Amash’s comments come in the wake of Trump telling reporters he has “total” authority over when states can ease restrictions implemented amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

The libertarian-leaning Independent, who left the Republican Party last July, blasted the remarks as “flat-out wrong,” and said conservatives should have another option on the ballot. 

“Americans who believe in limited government deserve another option,” he tweeted.  

Americans who believe in limited government deserve another option. https://t.co/c7P2vOTyOe

— Justin Amash (@justinamash) April 13, 2020

After receiving encouragement to run from one Twitter user, he responded: “Thanks. I’m looking at it closely this week.” 

Thanks. I’m looking at it closely this week.

— Justin Amash (@justinamash) April 13, 2020

Amash went on to assert his belief that a federal government with absolute power could have detrimental effects on America.  

“State governments are not local branches of the federal government; they have different powers and functions. Putting one government in charge of everything does not strengthen our system; it weakens our system and makes everyone more vulnerable to serious errors,” he tweeted. 

Since his decision to leave the Republican Party, Amash has repeatedly said he would not rule out a presidential bid.