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Growing and distinct: The Unaffiliated voter as unmoored voter

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  • J. Michael Bitzer
  • Christopher A. Cooper
  • Whitney Ross Manzo
  • Susan Roberts

Abstract

Objective We examine the size, characteristics, and attitudes of Unaffiliated party registrants as they compare to registrants from the two major parties. Methods We analyze voter registration files, voter history files, and public opinion data from North Carolina. Results Unaffiliated registrants are not simply shadow partisans but, on average, are distinct from two major parties in terms of demographics, political behavior, and political attitudes. Conclusion Voters who eschew party labels are best understood as unmoored voters—often hovering close to their ideological docks but with no institutional constraint to keep them from drifting as the political tides shift.

Suggested Citation

  • J. Michael Bitzer & Christopher A. Cooper & Whitney Ross Manzo & Susan Roberts, 2022. "Growing and distinct: The Unaffiliated voter as unmoored voter," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 103(7), pages 1587-1601, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:socsci:v:103:y:2022:i:7:p:1587-1601
    DOI: 10.1111/ssqu.13225
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Dennis, Jack, 1988. "Political Independence in America, Part II: Towards a Theory," British Journal of Political Science, Cambridge University Press, vol. 18(2), pages 197-219, April.
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