General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: I am no longer a Democrat. [View all]Cassidy
(202 posts)First, it is anecdotal. Second, power structures tend to be conservative by their nature. The US government is no exception. Third, politicians think their constituents are much more conservative than they really are.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2013/03/04/one-study-explains-why-its-tough-to-pass-liberal-laws/?wp_login_redirect=0
Many people also consider themselves more conservative or magically moderate then they really are. For example, the "keep the government out of medicare" meme is a very clear indication of the impressive PR/BS job that conservatives continue to do to get astonishing numbers of people not only to vote against their self-interest, but to deny their fundamental moral bearings.
Still, I do think that you bring up an important point in that it is hard to determine what it means to be "independent." For that reason, I am usually registered with the Green party and often vote for their candidates when they have candidates. On the other hand, I often switch my registration to Democratic in time to vote in the primaries. I have also done paid and volunteer work for Democratic candidates. You don't need to be just one or the other. I encourage others to act with similar pragmatism. Let the data collectors know you are left by registering Green, but make your vote count in the Democratic party by being involved in their primaries.