In 1971 , he endorsed the consumer - rights advocate Ralph Nader for U.S. president in the 1972 election .
Based upon that background of populism , from 1970 to 1972 , Vidal was a chairman of the People 's Party of the United States .
In 1971 , Vidal endorsed the consumer - rights advocate Ralph Nader for United States president in the 1972 election .
Based upon that background of populism , from 1970 to 1972 , Vidal was a chairman of the People 's Party of the United States .