#32 - The IC is Hitting the Road!

Don't miss the chance to connect with one of the fastest growing movements in the country!

Raleigh: We’re Coming to You!

Our first IC meetup happening at Lynnwood Brewing in Raleigh, NC on Wednesday, July 2nd, from 6 to 8pm.

If you’d like to join the event, you can RSVP here.

Come stop by to join us for food, beverages, and socialization.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Hi friends,  

This year, the Independent Center is taking over the Fourth of July and turning it into a celebration of independent voters — the fastest-growing and most powerful political force in the country. While the nation honors its break from the status quo, we think there’s no better time to celebrate those of us who think for ourselves and vote beyond the party lines.

Want to show off your independent spirit? Grab our “Party in a Box” — it’s packed with everything you need to rep the movement and make some noise.

If you’d like to receive one of our boxes, please email [email protected].

Whether you're lighting up the grill or the group chat, we want to see how you’re celebrating with our gear.

We just ask that you Snap a pic, tag us, and let’s make this summer the summer of independents!

Best,

Lura

America’s Political Homeless Problem

Feel like you don’t have a home in a party? You’re not alone.

Latest News from the IC

• Modernizing the American Dream – How Independent-Minded Voters See the Nation’s Direction

• What Independent-Minded Voters Want in a Political Message

• What Political Ads Get Right and Wrong with Independent Voters

This Week in Congress

• Trump’s megabill gets a late makeover in the Senate

• A look at how Trump’s big bill could change the US immigration system

Trending Topics from the IC’s Marketplace of Ideas

Every week, our proprietary AI model analyzes public discussions on public forums to understand the dynamics of digital grassroots conversations.

Trending issues this week:

1. Reassessment of Obama’s Legacy Reflects Ideological Fractures A high-engagement thread revisiting Barack Obama’s legacy revealed a generational and ideological divide. While many praised his scandal-free presidency and diplomatic achievements, others criticized his economic and foreign policy decisions—especially around the 2008 financial crisis, Middle East interventions, and perceived neoliberalism. This signals ongoing reevaluation of establishment figures amid shifting political norms.

2. Democratic Party’s Internal Struggles Over Campaign Finance The legitimacy and influence of Super PACs in Democratic primaries spurred critical reflection on intra-party equity, strategic coherence, and accountability. Proposals to limit PAC influence via internal mechanisms received mixed reactions, indicating broader tension between grassroots ideals and pragmatic campaign realities.

3. Labor and Migration Debates Resurface Through Historical Lens A discussion of the failed 1970s A-TEAM program (which sought to replace migrant farmworkers with U.S. high schoolers) prompted critical comparisons to contemporary labor policy and Florida’s recent proposals. Commenters highlighted the enduring undervaluation of migrant labor, institutional resistance to reform, and the unrealistic premise that domestic labor can seamlessly replace skilled, underpaid foreign workers.Policy Mailbag

Podcast Appearances

• Adam Brandon on the Frogmore Stew podcast on the rise of independent voters.

• Lura Forcum on the Thoughtfully Mindless podcast on how to communicate effectively in the era of polarization.

• Lura Forcum on the San Francisco Experience discussing accountability in politics.

• Lura Forcum on Purple Political Breakdown on the value of independent voters.

Partner Spotlight: Veterans for All Voters Pushes for Open Primaries in NY

Veterans for all Voters (VAV) volunteers joined informational pickets across New York City to highlight a simple truth: millions of taxpayers are funding elections they’re not allowed to vote in.

In Queens, VAV volunteers Karanjit Paul and Mike Tagariello testified before the NYC Charter Revision Commission, calling on the city to put open primaries on the November ballot.

What We’re Reading

The Atlantic: The Myth of the Gen Z Red Wave

By: Jean M. Twenge

The Independent Center is the go-to organization for information, research, and engagement with independent voters, who now make up the plurality of the electorate.

We represent those who are fed up with partisan politics and feel politically homeless. We believe the future is not red or blue; it’s fiscally responsible, socially inclusive, and free to choose the best options for ourselves, our families, and our communities.