[TheMalcolmConnection]

Originally Posted by Schneed10

A change in the tax bracket in which you're categorized. Get a big raise? You're more likely to see the republican point of view. Get laid off? You're more likely to see the democrats point of view. They say you never understand until you walk a mile in a man's shoes. If your financial situation in life changes, chances are you'll feel differently about a lot of things.

But for me, I consider myself an independent thinker. I will examine each situation independently, consider all viewpoints, and come up with my own conclusions. In this way, I don't consider myself either a democrat or republican; I'm a fan of whichever side has the right answer on a particular issue. This leads me to like republicans on some things, but democrats on others.

However the fundamental premises upon which I base my thinking mostly line up with the republican side (because I actually understand economics). Things like lower taxes, smaller government, pro business, etc. I don't see those things ever changing. However, if the Democrats do things that are pro business, I gladly support it.

I liked the bank bailouts. I liked the Wall Street bailouts.

So some things won't ever change, especially the fact that I'll always think independently and will never join a team, aligning myself with one party on all issues. I'll surely vote democrat when the candidate and the issues call for it, and I'll vote republican plenty of times as well.

Originally Posted by Mattyk

I've been registered independent since day 1. I've never identified myself with either party though I've gotta say I've never once voted Republican, but I would if the right candidate came along. At this point I don't see a huge difference between either of the parties. It's just one big cluster F.

These. Exactly how I feel.