What Is an Independent Voter?
Independent voters—those who reject rigid party labels—are the fastest-growing segment of the American electorate. They represent a modernized vision of the American Dream: one rooted in optimism, pragmatism, and freedom of thought. Independents often split-ticket vote, choosing candidates based on merit rather than party affiliation. Yet, despite their growing influence, the current political system does much to silence the independent majority.
Gerrymandering Spoils Independent Votes
Partisan redistricting—commonly known as gerrymandering—has become a powerful tool used by both major parties to entrench their power. In states like Texas, Republicans are considering adding five GOP seats through redistricting, a move that underscores how gerrymandered maps leave voters with fewer meaningful choices.
Even in states with independent commissions, like California, partisan retaliation looms. Governor Gavin Newsom has hinted at countermeasures, despite California’s redistricting being governed by a voter-approved nonpartisan commission. This escalation reveals a troubling trend: partisan interests are prioritized over national unity, leaving independents disenfranchised.
The Big Picture: Americans Want Change
Polls show that only 35% of Americans approve of Congress, yet 79% support officials who defy their party, and 60% favor bipartisan cooperation. This reflects a deep frustration with hyper-partisan politics and a yearning for optimism in America—a future where leaders serve all constituents, not just party loyalists.
Redistricting: From Representation to Partisan Weapon
Originally intended to reflect population changes, redistricting has morphed into a partisan weapon. The Constitution mandates congressional seat apportionment based on census data, but state legislatures control the process, often skewing maps to favor their party.
The term “gerrymander” dates back to 1812, when Massachusetts Governor Elbridge Gerry approved distorted district maps. Today, these manipulations are more sophisticated—and more damaging.
Zooming In: The Decline of Competitive Districts
In 1997, 113 House districts were competitive (Cook PVI between D+3 and R+3). Today, that number has dropped to just 61. Meanwhile, noncompetitive districts (PVI of D+10 or R+10) have surged from 174 to 273. This shift means moderate voices are increasingly excluded, and independent voters have fewer chances to influence outcomes.
Cross-party representation has also plummeted—from 84 districts in 1997 to just 10 today. This decline is a direct result of gerrymandering, which insulates incumbents and guts electoral accountability.
Polarization and the Rise of Extremes
In “safe” districts, the real contest is the primary—not the general election. This dynamic pushes candidates to appeal to their party’s extremes, sidelining moderate and independent voters.
These shifts illustrate how gerrymandering spoils independents' votes and fuels polarization.
Solutions: Empowering the Independent Majority
Some states have adopted reforms like:
- Independent redistricting commissions (e.g., Arizona, California, Michigan)
- Open primaries
- Ranked-choice voting
These changes aim to restore fairness, encourage broader participation, and reward coalition-building over extremism.
Independent Lens: A Path Forward
Most Americans don’t live on the political fringe. They want functioning institutions, accountable leaders, and optimism in America. But gerrymandering continues to silence the independent majority, undermining the very principles of democracy.
Fixing this issue won’t solve everything, but it’s a vital step. Competitive districts produce leaders who govern for all, not just the radical few. It’s time to empower independents and modernize the American Dream.
