The Independent Voter

Independent voters―the 40–50 percent of Americans who reject identification with either of the two major parties or with any party―are increasing in number and impact. Independents are determining the outcome of major elections, upending the long-held categories of political science. Drawing on historical and contemporary data (including survey data, participant observation, interviews, and current writings and scholarship) and providing timely new analysis, the authors argue that independents are an engine for a transformation of US democracy, perhaps even its saviors. Rather than “leaning” to a party or an ideology, independents vary on issues but share a deep distrust of the partisan system. What are the consequences of this distrust? What about shifting trends among Black, Latino, and Asian communities regarding party loyalty? What of young voters who eschew party identification wanting a different kind of political culture? For a wide variety of audiences, this book gives students, scholars, campaign professionals, activists, and media analysts an insight into current voting dynamics and future possibilities.

Thom Reilly is Professor in the School of Public Affairs and Co-director of the Center for an Independent and Sustainable Democracy at Arizona State University.

Jacqueline S. Salit is President of Independent Voting and Co-director of the Center for an Independent and Sustainable Democracy at Arizona State University.

Omar H. Ali is Dean of Lloyd International Honors College and Professor of African-American political history at the University of North Carolina Greensboro.