Key facts
- Nearly half of Americans, 47%, do not identify as Democrats or Republicans.
- The CNN poll found 26% identify as Republicans and 27% as Democrats.
- The share of those identifying outside the two major parties has slightly increased since the previous year.
- The poll surveyed 2,480 adults between May 8-31.
A recent CNN poll reveals that a significant portion of the American electorate, 47%, does not align with either the Democratic or Republican parties, identifying instead as independent, part of another party, or having no opinion.
This figure represents a slight increase from the previous year, when 44% of respondents indicated similar non-affiliation. The poll, conducted from May 8-31 among 2,480 adults, found that 26% identified as Republicans and 27% as Democrats. Among those identifying as independent, 10% stated they align with a different political party.
The growing number of independent voters is seen as a crucial demographic for both major parties to capture in upcoming elections, particularly with the midterms on the horizon. However, the report notes that Republicans may face challenges, citing recent polling data that indicates public dissatisfaction with President Trump's job performance, the war in Iran, and the economy.