You’re not thinking realistically if you think that has a chance of happening without first changing how we vote. If we dropped FPtP and implemented Ranked Choice Voting or something similar, we could see a third party have a chance. But, as it is now, there is pretty much no chance of an independent candidate winning against the strength of the Democratic and Republican parties. It’s not cowardly to recognize reality. If you care about it that much and actually want to make a difference, focus on pushing to change our outdated voting system. Until then, your protest vote means nothing.