So David Ducker, you are in New Jersey right now covering the gubanatorial race election day tomorrow. We've talked a lot on this show about how it appears the shutdown is playing a role in that campaign that President Trump and you know as a form of political punishment slashf funding to a couple of big projects that yes they're based in New York City but they impact New Jersey including this uh new train tunnel that's so desperately needed for those who commute back and forth from the Garden State into Ma ...

Political Landscape & Independent Candidates - The future of American politics leans towards independence, with 10,000 people leaving the Democratic and Republican parties daily [4] - Independent candidates, especially veterans, perform better in general elections than Democrats or Republicans in states like Idaho, South Dakota, and Nebraska [11] - 60% of new voters are registering as unaffiliated or independent [11] - A strong independent candidate can perform well in a Democrat versus Republican race [6] Maine Politics & Susan Collins - Susan Collins is perceived as weak and representing establishment/corporate interests [9][10] - There's a question of whether a Democratic candidate can defeat Susan Collins and whether they can win the primary [10] - Maine has a history of voting for independent candidates, exemplified by Angus King [19] Democratic Party Challenges - Democrats attract primary voters who are critical of the party, viewing it as a weaker alternative [6][7][13] - The Democratic party's reputation is suffering, although some find the Republican party's reputation less understandable [16] Independent Strategy - Running as an independent allows candidates to bridge the gap between Republican and Democratic voters [17] - Some independent candidates refuse to caucus with either party, aiming to disrupt the two-party system [21]