if it builds momentum for an actually good 3rd party or at least reforming the DNC, it could have been worth it.

Tell that to all the families of kids that died because of the DOGE cuts.

We're going to hear people saying "it was a good strategy though - shame it didn't work out" while they're on voter lines being patrolled by armed guard, just like in Russia. Even if elections are for show, "both sides" people will not admit they were wrong.

Voting for a 3rd party is a waste of a vote until that 3rd party has representatives in lower forms of government. The only bipartisan support we'll see during a 3rd party term is when both parties work together to undermine the 3rd party President. It's magical thinking to believe a 3rd party President will get anything accomplished without lower representation.