What does identifying as an independent tell us about how somebody will vote? As it turns out, not much. Research suggests this is a (surprisingly large) group that’s focused more on image than policy.
There are still plenty of moderate congressional districts represented by officials who vote with their constituents in mind—but that could soon change.
Tired of the same old political cronies, Berliners have voted in the Pirate Party — Internet open-source activists who hope to use online systems to improve democracy.
While they may not have what it takes to win the White House, third parties have been responsible for putting up many of the road signs to future policy directions.