Wisconsin state legislator Brett Hulsey, elected as a Democrat in 2010 and re-elected in 2012, is not running for re-election. He says he has left the Democratic Party and is now an independent. He had been elected from Dane County (the county that contains Madison).
He is running as a write-in candidate for Governor. See this story. Also, see this story. He feels that the Democratic nominee for Governor is not all that different from the state’s Republican governor, who is running for re-election.
Too bad he could not actually get on the ballot as a Independent. But at least we have another professed Independent in the ranks.
The ranks of Independents are growing. In those states which allow party designation by the voter, Independents (or Nonpartisans) are growing, while major parties are declining in registration.
If we ever get 60% of the populace to declare themselves as Independents, I think it may be demanded of the legislatures to rearrange the electoral system where Independents will be a force to be considered.
I most likely will not live to see this day, but I believe it is coming. Just trust those who hold the Independent torch will be of a philosophy which will not destroy this great republic.