I am independent because . . .

According to the Pew Research Center some 4.5 million independent voters in six states (Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, New York, Oklahoma and Utah) will be completely locked out of their states' presidential primaries Feb. 5 because they have "closed" primaries, in which only a voter registered with the party can help choose its nominee.

I'm registered as no party determination because I live in a free country and want to choose the best candidate. I know good Republicans, Democrats, independents and Libertarians. I want to make a choice based on character and competency. I want to vote for someone willing to address the systemic issues, not just tow the line of their political party.

Our country has the greatest opportunities before us. We have accomplished exceptional feats in technology and innovation; and now the time has come to apply this newly gained knowledge and address the challenges that face us.

The turn in our economic forecast is providing us with an opportunity to reconsider what we believe is important and relevant. It is time to make some tough decisions. Do we continue to fund a war machine, or do we take care of our veterans and military personnel, educate our children, and invest in renewable energy and our infrastructure: building bridges, roads and schools?

Personally, I believe for us to realize our greatest potential we must address our broken political system, including:

§ The elimination of the electoral college
§ An open primary system
§ Same day voter registration
§ Nonpartisan administration of elections
§ Redistricting reform

I am independent because I believe I have the right as a United States citizen to vote for the best person for the job. The U.S. Constitution did not stipulate only two political parties.
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