Is It Possible to Not Be a Democrat or a Republican?

YEA LIKE MANY OTHER VOTERS I AM A REGISTERED INDEPENDENT. While the United States is often divided into the two major parties—Democrats and Republicans—the reality is that a growing number of citizens are choosing not to align themselves with either.

The Declining Influence of the Oligarchy

Both parties draw from the same pool of extremely wealthy individuals—the oligarchy. These individuals and their associated think tanks, staffed by psychiatrists, sociologists, and lawyers, spend significant resources creating divisive rhetoric and maintaining their control over the political landscape. This does little to address the real needs and concerns of the American people.

For a more effective democratic process, it's crucial that we shift away from this oligarchic influence. As political scientist Charlesoretta Collins argues, our society can function better when informed voters select candidates who are perceived as wise leaders, looking to the best interests of all citizens, rather than catering to extremist agendas.

The Media and Political Perception

Both parties have their media networks and think tanks working tirelessly to shape public perception. The media we consume heavily influences our understanding of society, often reinforcing biases and misconceptions. As John F. Kennedy once said, "The medium is the message." The type of media we consume shapes how we perceive the world and our role in it.

In the current digital age, we are faced with the challenges of navigating the internet, smartphones, and rapidly advancing technologies like artificial intelligence. These technologies are designed to meet the needs of their creators, not necessarily the voter.

Historically, the pendulum of political opinion has swung freely about the center, but when it veers too far into the extremes, chaos ensues, leading to hate and division. As Dr. Leonard Peikoff explains, this is why it’s important to remain informed and engaged, questioning the narratives presented by all forms of media.

Being an Independent Voter

INDEPENDENT that what I become day I got out of the military. Carter was my commander in Chief and Reagan won and it was cold war days yes, the real cold war. I was a tanker—the iron coffin. Now days, it's planes and jets. Died that job, I am INDEPENDENT. I STAND UP FOR ALL RIGHTS. My liberties are nothing for all. If you judge another or want others to follow your feelings, that’s not democracy. I didn’t serve our country just for a party; I served it for all, even as I lived life alone.

AMERICAS Democratic Republic form of governance works best when intelligent voters select the candidates whom they perceive to be wise enough to govern in the best interests of all. This perspective underscores the importance of independent thinking and the role of each citizen in the democratic process.

Demographics of Independent Voters

Its absolutely possible for someone to identify as neither a Republican nor a Democrat in the United States. In fact, many Americans don't affiliate with either of the two major parties. According to a Gallup poll, a plurality of Americans identify as independents rather than Republicans or Democrats. This trend has been consistent since 2009, with around 40% of respondents identifying as independents. Additionally, a Pew Research Center survey found that a significant number of Americans don't identify with either party and instead consider themselves independents or members of a third party.

Conclusion

While registering as an independent may not be possible in every state, it remains a valid and increasingly popular choice for many Americans. Embracing independence in politics means embracing a diverse range of perspectives and ideologies, rather than conforming to the binary nature of the major parties. As more and more individuals find themselves questioning the established political order, the potential for a more equitable and inclusive political landscape grows.