General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: A friend of mine who says his party affiliation is Independent [View all]Oopsie Daisy
(4,938 posts)Your observation regarding the tendency of many independents to be "closeted Republicans and ashamed of their party" is quite insightful. It is disheartening and exasperating for me to see that these so-called "independents" prioritize appearances over effecting real change and improving the party that better reflects their principles and values. They eschew labels and keep their distance for personal motives or to impress others, constructing a misleading narrative of fairness and thoughtfulness while paradoxically embracing all the fallacies of "bothsider" philosophies.
Some do this for personal financial gain as well. They are quick to claim party allegiance when it benefits them personally, only to reject it and feign independence when it serves their interests once more. They lack true commitment and withdraw to a safe distance when faced with challenges or when they are called to account for their votes and for the actions of the politicians they endorsed.
People like that are, well... let's just say I despise them all... and I'll leave it at that.