Um, no. It represents how only the two, MAYBE three (Pero a few years back) candidates get noticed, and the GOP/Dem candidates agree not to even debate any others. The relationship with the MSM is part of the problem. If a person gets on enough states' ballots, they should be able to at least debate the other candidates.
Well, I certainly can't argue with your point, it's quite valid. What I meant by "illustrating poorly represented importance" was how it relates the "popularity contest" mentality. Voters who take voting seriously want broader, more in-depth coverage. If most (ideally all) voters demanded such coverage, the media would provide it or risk losing their audience.
First off, try three. Second, most states don't even count write-ins.
Well, I can only speak for my state, but last November there were no fewer than 5 presidential candidates on the ballot. As for not counting write-ins, again I can only speak from my expreience, but in February we had a local offical elected by write-in. Besides, the important thing is the message sent.
I doubt it. Why would have such big PR machines for crappy candidates if they could field good ones?
You're probably right, but would it hurt to try?