Currently, 45% of U.S. adults identify as political independents, a record number. According to a Gallup poll, the percentage of Americans who identify as independent has reached its highest level in the past 30 years. This figure is higher than the previous high of 43% set in 2014, 2023 and 2024, and shows growing dissatisfaction with both major parties.
Much of the surge is being driven by young Americans. According to a Gallup poll, 56% of Gen Z adults now say they are independent, continuing the trend of young voters breaking away from traditional party affiliation.
Last year, even though Republicans controlled both the White House and Congress, a combination of party identity and partisan leaning gave Democrats an 8-point advantage over Republicans. A reversal from 2024 could give Democrats momentum heading into the upcoming midterm elections.
Independents have been the largest political group in most years Gallup has tracked, but the latest data confirms a broader shift. Even as political polarization escalates across the country, more Americans are expressing dissatisfaction with the two-party system.
