Since the 80s political scientists have pointed to the 'myth of the independent voter'. It's been covered in most basic college poli-sci texts since that time.
Most data seems to indicate that of the electorate, only 10-11% of self proclaimed independents are truly independent. This is from Pew, Gallup, ANES studies/polls. Most independents are 'leaners' that fall in along dem/GOP party lines, rivalling the support of self proclaimed partisans.
The number of people who are not registering as a member of a party is increasing, but truly independent voters are much rarer.
I can't believe that you don't think independents votes matter, in 1968 geo, Wallace pulled 10 million votes, 1n 1980 john Anderson got 11 millions votes, most who were disappointed in carter, but didn"t want to vote for Reagan,
thereby helping Reagan gain the presidency. by taking votes away from carter,
" watch what you say around this guy, he's got a big mouth" sam giancana to an outfit soldier about frank Sinatra. [ from the book "my way"
