Independence From Political Parties Makes Problem-Solving Possible, Says Senator Joe Manchin

Contact: Justin Longo

Phone: 703.994.7104

Email: Justin@independentcenter.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 24, 2025

Independence From Political Parties Makes Problem-Solving Possible, Says Senator Joe Manchin

Independent lawmakers highlight rising political awakening, urge election reform at ‘The Independent Majority: Reshaping America’

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Independent Center Voice hosted its inaugural event on Wednesday evening, titled “The Independent Majority: Reshaping America,” featuring former Senator Joe Manchin (I), former House Members Ken Buck, Reid Ribble, and Mark Sanford, and several independent candidates. Participants engaged in a wide-ranging discussion about the future of the independent movement and the need to realign political incentives around problem-solving over partisanship. Wednesday’s event launched a new chapter in the effort to amplify independent voices.

“Independent voters are not spoilers, undecideds, or low-information voters,” said Lura Forcum, President of the Independent Center. “This event explores what independent voters are, what they're looking for, and why they’re so important to our political health.”

Former Congressmen Buck, Ribble, and Sanford discussed the growing public frustration with partisan gridlock, the increasing number of voters identifying as independents, and how nonpartisan leadership can help restore trust and accountability in government. They outlined the urgent need for institutions and representatives that give voice to the countless Americans who don’t fit neatly into either political party.

Senator Joe Manchin looked back on his transition to becoming an independent. “I thought the country was ready for this. Former Democrats and Republicans shared like-minded ideas about putting the country first.” He later added, “My first obligation is to uphold my oath to the Constitution, to defend and protect it, and the second is to the people that sent me there.”

Former Representative Reid Ribble emphasized the growing sway of independent voters, saying, “At the end of the day, the voters have a great deal of power, and right now, we’re in an era of political outrage. When the independent group becomes outraged enough to demand change, they’ll probably get it, because there’s more of them than there are of anybody else.”

Adam Brandon, Political Strategist and Senior Advisor to the Independent Center and Independent Center Voice, highlighted that a political shift is underway. “You’re going to have more independents on the ballot this cycle than ever before,” he said. “In our nation’s history, big changes have always begun with a movement. Independent voters are forming a movement, and it is about to change American politics.”

In case you missed yesterday’s action, we wanted to provide a quick update highlighting the key talking points from the panels to help you understand why independents will be the defining story of 2026:

Yesterday’s event in Washington, D.C. was a watershed moment for the independent movement as a whole. For years, independents have been afterthoughts, relegated to the periphery of American politics. However, independents are an undeniable force, now comprising 43% of the electorate. Our July 23rd event examined the causes and effects of this growth within the broader context of our country’s political ills.

Overview

• Key Takeaway: The two-party system is fundamentally broken. Serious conversations about our biggest problems are being replaced by political entertainment. Independents, which are the fastest-growing political demographic in the country, are ready for change.

What Do Independents Want? Featuring Brett Loyd of the Independent Center and Bullfinch Group, Lindsey Williams-Drath of Forward Party, and NBC Chief Political Analyst Chuck Todd

• Key Takeaway: Independents want to see competition between the two parties. This is the starting desire. But while people label independents as a “mushy middle,” Independent Center research shows that they’re actually the most cohesive group. Compromise is labeled as a dirty word in partisan politics, but this is something that independents are craving.

What is Possible When We Put Country Before Party? Featuring Heather Manchin of Americans Together and Senator Joe Manchin

• Key Takeaway: Whenever you have a broken system, you must ask who benefits from it. And in this instance, it’s the political parties. At the end of the day, a politician’s obligation is to the Constitution. By operating outside of the two parties, you move into a space where you can think and speak freely to actually get things done.

The Vanishing Agenda: What the GOP Left Behind featuring former Representatives Mark Sanford, Reid Ribble, and Ken Buck

• Key Takeaway: The incentive structure in politics is to get more votes, not solve problems. Rather than focusing on problems, the GOP is now seeking to support other Republicans. However, to resolve major problems like our debt and deficit, both sides will have to work together. Adult behavior needs to be incentivized. Not partisan loyalty.

An Independent Overview featuring Paul Rieckhoff of Independent Veterans, independent candidates Ethan Penner and Todd Achilles, and radio host Khalil Ekulona

• Key Takeaway: Being independent enables you to be authentic, which is essential in today’s world. This is a major appeal. Independents stand for empathy and a desire to see “win-win” situations. A “win-lose” society is a “lose-lose” society. People are concerned about fundamental issues such as healthcare and affordability. To be independent means being fiercely pragmatic and ready to take action.  

Summary by Independent Center President Lura Forcum and Independent Center and Independent Center Voice Senior Advisor Adam Brandon

• Final Thoughts: Whether you’re ready or not, independents will be the defining story of the 2026 midterms and beyond. This isn’t just a flash in the pan. This is a movement. Washington better take note.