Introduction to Political Independence

Identifying as an independent in American politics encompasses a range of personal beliefs and political stances that often challenge the traditional partisan structures. This article aims to explore what it means to be an independent, the reasons for adopting this identity, and the implications for voting patterns and political engagement.

Unaffiliated Voting and Political Objectivity

For many individuals, identifying as an independent signifies a preference for voting based on personal beliefs and the specific candidates rather than party affiliations. An independent voter does not feel emotionally tied to a particular party and often casts their ballot based on individual policies and candidates' performance.

This approach to voting can be seen as more objective, as independent voters tend to educate themselves thoroughly about the political landscape. They weigh the merits of each candidate without the baggage of party loyalty, ultimately choosing the individual who they believe will best serve their interests.

Legal and Practical Aspects of Being an Independent

Legally, an independent voter has unique advantages and limitations. Perhaps the most prominent is the ability to vote in general elections, as independents are usually not required to align with a specific party. However, they cannot participate in primary elections where party loyalty is crucial for securing a party's nomination.

In states with open primaries, like the one the author describes, independents can even switch their party affiliation for specific elections. This highlights the flexibility of an independent voter's role in the electoral process.

Personal Experience and Identity Formation

For the 70-year-old author, identifying as an independent has been a long journey of disillusionment and re-evaluation. Initially a 56-year Eisenhower Goldwater Conservative, the author's departure from the Republican party stems from a series of political betrayals, notably Reagan's actions.

The author also reflects on the state of American politics, calling it a "religious Dark Ages" due to the polarization and extremism on both sides. This perspective underscores the broader context of why many modern voters might choose to identify as independent.

Shifts in Ideological Beliefs and Values

Over time, the author's views have evolved, reflecting a nuanced and adjusted ideological stance. They identify as fiscally conservative and socially libertarian, with strong views on labor and wealth redistribution. This demonstrates how political identity is not static but fluid, often influenced by real-world events and changing perspectives.

The author's journey from fiscal conservatism to supporting higher taxes for deficit reduction is a clear indication of how personal beliefs evolve based on new information and experiences. Similarly, although they remain social libertarians on cultural issues, their support for Democrats on education issues shows the complexity of independent voters.

Conclusion

Identifying as an independent in American politics is a testament to the complexity of modern political engagement. It signifies a commitment to personal belief over party loyalty, an openness to learning and adjusting one's views based on new information, and a pragmatic approach to governance that prioritizes individual effectiveness over party solidarity.

The journey of political independence is not just about personal identity but also about actively shaping and participating in the political process to achieve the best outcomes for oneself and society.