A statue is a law that is made by a legislative body, and that commands or prohibits something. Statues are different from case law that is made by judicial precedent, and from regulations, that are developed by government agencies.
The Soldiers' and Sailors' Relief Act of 1940 is a statute because it was passed by a legislative body (the U.S. Congress) and it prohibits something (under the act, active military personnel cannot be sued).
Third party candidates at the top of the ticket can help to draw attention to other party candidates down the ballot, helping them to win local or state office.
