Independence — a state of mind, not a spot on the spectrum

Campaign strategists target independent voters using crosstabs that slice poll data up by factors such as party registration, self-identification, or ticket-splitting habits. Few things are pursued with such vigor, while at the same time interpreted with such variation. Independent voters differ significantly from one another, and they differ dramatically from state to state.

In New Hampshire, a state known for its independence, we refuse to go along with the crowd. Those without a party affiliation are labeled “undeclared” on the voter rolls. (We usually call them independent, just the same.) It may appear to be a distinction without difference, but in a way, it’s an attempt to steer pundits in the right direction. Undeclared voters come from all across the political spectrum - they just don’t want to tell you where.

Unfortunately, candidates and their consultants keep making the same mistake. They assume that all independents are bundled neatly together ideologically between Republicans and Democrats. But in New Hampshire, independents have enthusiastically supported Ralph Nader, Dennis Kucinich, Pat Buchanan, and Ron Paul, among others. They show no reluctance to support candidates with strong ideological viewpoints, but are wary of candidates that appear to be creations of the established party monolith.

The ideological make-up of a state’s independent voters depends largely upon whether they are permitted to vote in party primaries. Allowing independents to take a ballot from either party gives voters a strong incentive to stay undeclared. When given a choice to have a choice, we opt for a choice. Even if a voter takes the same party ballot 90 percent of the time - or all the time - they feel better knowing they have the option.