In the 1992 and 1996 elections, how did Ross Perot’s Reform Party influence the outcome?

In the 1992 and 1996 elections, Ross Perot's Reform Party played a significant role in shaping the political landscape, primarily by influencing major party policies rather than outright winning the presidency or endorsing one of the major parties. Perot's campaign focused on issues such as fiscal responsibility, government reform, and the criticism of the political establishment.

His candidacy resonated with many voters who felt disillusioned with the traditional two-party system, leading to a substantial impact on the platforms of the Democratic and Republican parties. Major party candidates had to address the concerns raised by Perot and his supporters, such as the federal budget deficit and the need for economic reform, in order to attract those voters. This shift indicates how third-party candidacies can lead to significant changes in the larger political discourse, pushing the major parties to adapt their policies to capture a broader electorate.

The other options either suggest direct outcomes like winning the presidency or endorsing another party which were not reflective of Perot's actual influence in these elections. The Reform Party acted more as a catalyst for change in party priorities rather than a spoiler or a consolidator of votes with a specific major party.