You have to vote, so minorities, workers, etc turn up and vote. At some point in our lives, many of us dream of breaking the shackles of employment and becoming our own boss. Opinion: Ann Cudd for President First off, you dont have to be pressured by one party or another to vote a specific way. When you're a child, that's what you start out literally doing - trying to get your footing. Let's say there are two event planners, both charged with setting up an annual corporate gathering, including securing a location, hiring the vendors needed, and creating marketing materials to inform the company's employees and business partners about the event. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, They are paid by the project, not by the hour, week, or month, They work with their own tools and equipment, not those supplied by the company who hires them, They are free to perform work for other businesses, They are free to work at a location and during hours of their choosing (although clients can give independent contractors deadlines for completing the work), They can employ subcontractors for all or part of the work (unless their contract with the hiring firm says otherwise). There's even a Facebook group called "Voters whose registration was changed without their knowledge in NY." If an Independent candidate hits on one of the issues that a single-issues voter agrees with, they are a good choice for that voter. If one only discusses political issues with those who hold very similar or identical views how are the wrinkles and weaknesses in ones own arguments identified and addressed? other data sources to make educated guesses about your political leanings. Become an Independent Voter at Your Own Risk.. One of the greatest benefits of being an independent consultant is flexibility. Independent voters in numerous states are struggling with the system. Nearly 40 percent of voters in the United States identify as independent, yet there are only four independents serving in Congress. But you should know there are a lot of local elections by which you could have a larger impact. https://t.co/xZg5dyQYRL. Independent contractors (often referred to as "ICs") are workers who are self-employed. Being an independent contractor has its advantages over being an employee. National Politics. Being independent you can think. To help you network, gain expertise, and receive discounts on insurance and other self-employment expenses, consider joining professional organizations such as the National Association for the Self-Employed. As a 14-year registered Democrat and 1-year registered Republican, the only advantage I see as registering as an independent is that you don't get bombarded by phone calls and mailers when it comes time for the Primary. Independently decide if you really want to continue with Governor Bentley and have your children be last in education among the states. Pros and Cons of Being an Independent Contractor An independent contractor is defined by the method of compensation. Does anyone have any studies or other sources which may demonstrate any positive effects for registered independent voters (such as encouraging more centralist tendencies), and, if so, does the research show whether this tendency is affected by whether the independent is in a swing state? Although both event planners are doing the same job, event planner No. California's primary is on June 7th. Over 60,000 Democrats in Brooklyn alone disappeared from the voter rolls. You'll also find a bevy of resources on the U.S. Small Business Administration's website. You might earn more as an independent contractor, and the tax benefits can include deducting your business expenses. Help you to develop your self-esteem and self-reliance as you learn to live on your own. Because in all our previous experience, weve just risen above it and learned to make do. The concept that not voting is a vote for the other candidate is largely untrue. So come on over to the independent side this November 4. Colorado: Young Voters Flex Political Muscles. In some states, the information on this website may be considered a lawyer referral service. Pros of Starting Your Own Independent Insurance Agency. Choose the kind of work they take and the companies they work for, Set different terms and pay rates for various clients, and, Own the intellectual property rights to work they create, such as art, music, or software, unless the parties sign a contract that specifies that the works belong to the client company. First, a pragmatic argument: an Independent candidate has rejected the advantages of being part of an established infrastructure and support network. Your use of this website constitutes acceptance of the Terms of Use, Supplemental Terms, Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. The website is a bit of a rabbit hole frankly just took me 1.5 hrs to drink a coffee reading your articles. In addition, independent contractors are able to: On the flip side, independent contractors have the added responsibility for all business decisions they make, including decisions that might have important legal and financial consequences. If were so used to doing things our own way, were probably not aware that sometimes our own way isnt actually the right way. Many of Sanders' supporters felt his chances at the presidency had been smeared and interfered with by liberal media and fellow former Democratic presidential candidates. What we find with Mandatory voting is that every citizen has to give an opinion. Catalonia has different cultural priorities than Spain. (The deadline for new voters to register was more recent, in March.). But because of our independence, AKA a spirit of pride in this case, we refuse to let anyone help us. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Firstly because of the restriction on voting in primaries. You may also be responsible for buying the tools and equipment needed for your profession. Catalans might be part of Spain with the current borders, but the culture is unique when compared to the rest of the country. You will experience greater privacy and freedom. and fellow former Democratic presidential candidates. You'll have complete control over: How your agency operates. The IRS provides Form 1040 ES, Estimated Tax for Individuals, to help you determine if you are required to pay quarterly taxes and the amount you should pay. Anyone who is self-employed is an IC. The aim of Christians in Politics is to reverse this trend, and wherever possible to do so via relational engagement in parties as this is where most policy and decisions are made. You can feel free to have your own political opinions and views that arent dictated and determined by a conglomerate of politicians. If its just you, then what happens when youre not able to be there? Agencies may also charge you acommission, which will reduce your compensation (although you can deduct it on your tax returns). Way to go #NewYork. However, usually if no one else has been interacting with you or looking at your work, you may be completely ambivalent to the things youre not doing right. "Frequently Asked Questions.". Sanders suspending his campaign additionally meant Joe Biden would be the Democratic candidate for the 2020 electionthough not officially, as Sanders is still on the primary ballots, but is unlikely to secure votes. Drift correction for sensor readings using a high-pass filter. Independent contractors are required to pay income taxes on the profits of their business and a self-employment tax (a required contribution to Social Security and Medicare). This is undoubtedly true, but there are two counter arguments that need to be weighed carefully against this advantage: First, a pragmatic argument: an Independent candidate has rejected the advantages of being part of an established infrastructure and support network. ", Internal Revenue Service. Being an independent contractor can be rewarding since it offers you the ability to be your own boss, choose which clients to work for, and allow you to work from home. Those candidates are the ones that eventually go onto higher office. You shouldnt be goaded into voting for someone who you dont believe supports your politics. ", U.S. Department of Labor. But the good news is that there's still time to fix your registration. It gives me an image of independents sneaking in to voting booths with a bunch of different silly costumes to vote 10 times an election :), Didn't you know? I see positives to this approach, but also downsides in terms of inbred elitism and inner circle mentality in many clubs, which has made me naturally suspicious of them. Zip Recruiters puts the average pay for independent insurance agents at a heartier $97,996. Independent Contractor (Self-Employed) or Employee? Statistically, it doesnt even make sense. Theres a reason why more and more people have shifted over to being registered as an independent voter in the wake of the last several elections. I also wonder if the primary voting restriction rules were implemented by party politicians to improve their own reelection chances. An interview with the, Two finalists remain in PSU Presidential Search Trump's kids cant vote for him in the NY primary. Here are some pros and cons to consider if you want to become an occupational therapist: Pros Occupational therapy is a rewarding career that offers significant benefits for those who enjoy helping others. The Tax Treatment of Self-Employment Income, Why Being a Contractor Can Be Better Than Being an Employee, The Nanny Tax: Who Owes It and How To Pay It, Sole Proprietor vs. In this regard they are able to campaign for, and draw attention to, a strongly felt issue. As you get older, youre trying to find your footing in other areas, like friendships, education, dressing yourself. So last time it was just a general overview on my topic and my opinion on some of the issues that come up within party politics. If I were registered Republican or Democrat, I could at least vote in the primaries, and in so doing have a say on which candidates are chosen to compete for the presidency, but as an independent I am not allowed to vote in either sides primaries. Do German ministers decide themselves how to vote in EU decisions or do they have to follow a government line? Some activists in Arizona are demanding a revote. But if we really want to be world changers, were not going to be able to do it alone. Because that's what this race is truly about. You have freedom and flexibility As an entrepreneur, you have a great deal of freedom and flexibility to determine how you work. This is the biggest pro of being an independent contractor. When Senator Bernie Sanders dropped out of the 2020 United States Presidential Race on April 8, the fallout was palpable, especially among those who identify as independent. Its definitely a good thing to be able to take care of yourself. If you're not registered either Democrat or Republican, you might be having a tough time voting. A voter should not have to feel that way. Working in management consulting as an employee may get a bit chaotic sometimes. Many people can't wait in line for hours on end to vote, for a range of reasons. 2 is given a budget with instructions to secure the location and hire vendors within the budget and to prepare marketing materials. (_jket/Flickr). Do you think its a good thing or a bad thing? Others wont want to compromise deeplyheld principles. All rights reserved (About Us). Fighting the three-headed dragon of voter suppression, mass media lies, and elitist supremacy, Bramelly Tammer (@Opal_boulder) April 19, 2016. Event planner No. Read our, How To Succeed as an Independent Contractor, The Differences Between Employed vs. Self-Employed, What To Know About Household Employee Taxes, How the IRS Determines Independent Contractor Status, What To Do With an IRS Backup Withholding Notice, What You Need to Know Before You Sign a W-9 Form, Hiring and Paying an Independent Contractor. Voting has become a toxic act where people are told, if you dont vote for our candidate, you dont belong to our party. Why should people have to vote for someone they dont believe in and dont support? What does a search warrant actually look like? By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you're agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. 8 Ways To Be Physically Distant But Socially Connected, My Problem With How We Worship Being Single, 5 Emotional Games We Need To Stop Playing, Uh Oh, Nintendo: 5 Reasons The Switch Isnt Looking Great. Which States Use an Open Primary Election?. We need prophetic challenge from outside politics but believe we also need to redress the balance and have Christians on the inside, on the spot when events happen. For this governor's race, consider being independent of party. 1. You have until May 23rd to either register in the first place or change your affiliation. Gallup. Schmidt, Steffen. They totally registered. If he didnt belong in the Democratic race, then why was he there? If you are Republican, you don't have to choose between being a regular or Tea Party Republican. 4 cons of being an electrician. , www.ehpeople.org/about-us/independant-politicians/pros-and-cons-independants. At 21 (many years ago) I reasoned that no one party could always have the best candidates or have the perfect plan/platform at every given time. HuffPost's top politics stories, straight to your inbox. What are the obligations/duties of "a Democrat" vs an independent? The willingness of Independents to shine a light on issues that might otherwise not have been considered contributes to a broadening of the national conversation. Electricity is . Are Democratic voters more firm in their voting preferences? But is being independent as good as its cracked out to be? While its true change happens slowly, we can make that change by being willing to stand up for the working lower class. So I am a person whose extremely weary of independents because Ive seen many of my apolitical friends use this as a cop out and excuse for not voting since they just cant in the primary so now Im annoyed in the general. Some voters who are of the opposite party might feel as if their vote is unnecessary and unimportant. Firstly because of the restriction on voting in primaries. Another con of the Electoral college is that it leaves many unrepresented for. Being a registered voter in Pennsylvania makes me want to be registered under a party so I can vote in the primaries. Independent contractors can engage in nearly any kind of work, but employers can't call just anyone who works for them an independent contractor. However I live in Maryland, which has closed primaries for both parties and the state will always vote Democrat for presidential elections; which leaves me feeling that being an independent removes my voice. "Fact Sheet 13: Employment Relationship Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This article was written by Holly Epstein Ojalvo and originally appeared on Kicker. While that may cut down on contacts from campaigns that are only using government-supplied voter data, larger/more sophisticated campaigns can use. Another one that kind of plays on our pride a bit. But you can also vote for nobody, because, again, nobodys stopping you. Pros of Being an Independent Caregiver. The information provided on this site is not legal advice, does not constitute a lawyer referral service, and no attorney-client or confidential relationship is or will be formed by use of the site. Having your own rules to live by. In that sense I figured that the mere act of being registered as an independent may affect the vote, because the more of us independents out there the more likely candidates would moderate their platform to recognize the needs of that swing-vote demographic and stick to more centralist policies. Ultimately, this system of government has its pros and cons. Many Christians who participate in politics and public life make a decision to join a political party, even though they dont agree with every policy position that party takes. Is it good or bad to be an independent in a partisan political climate? Earlier we discussed some of the benefits of working as an independent contractor, like setting your own hours and making your own rules. If you mean independent as in not beholding to party loyalty, the biggest advantage is that you put more time and effort in your voting. George Wallace, a segregationist, helped start the American Independent Party. Independent contractors submit invoices for their work rather than working for a specific Pros and Cons of Being an . So get out there, ye Independents, and buy those costumes. If, for example, a majority of the voting population are registered to a candidate's party, they'll more likely consider your vote as "in the bag" without working hard to earn it. If the county doesn't provide enough polling locations to serve their citizens, is that voter suppression? Advantages: Far harder to exclude people. Schmidt, Steffen. The spectrum of political opinions is far too diverse and wide-ranging to be isolated to two groups that essentially represent the same issues, goals and policies. Some people were still waiting in line to vote after the polls closed -- and even after the election had been called for Trump and Clinton. Other advantages may be longer-term or larger scale. Here too, the type of annual tax return you file depends on the way you've structured your business. As an independent myself, I think the biggest pro is that you lose the affiliation with a party. Colorado's more than 1 million officially unaffiliated voters now outnumber Republicans and Democrats in the state. Usually when we talk about our independence, we usually are referring to how good it is were able to take care of our own needs. While there isn't any data (that I've seen) showing "an advantage" of registering Independents rather than of the two major parties, the way you engage them as a voter is highly correlated with their long-term engagement with the political process. This week will be more focused and Ive decided to go with one of your suggestions. Independent Contractor vs. Freelancer: Whats the Difference? Sanders suspending his campaign additionally meant Joe Biden would be the Democratic candidate for the 2020 electionthough not officially, as Sanders is still on the primary ballots, but is unlikely to secure votes. When you decide to become an independent caregiver, you can set your own rate. Example: an employee for 50 reservations instead of 10 is more profitable. Progressives and independents are told a vote for the third party is a vote for Trump, or any other Republican or majority candidate. Bernie Sanders was a Democrat in name only. Some of the disadvantages of being a 1099 employee include you must fund 100% of your Medicare and Social Security taxes, health insurance, retirement savings, as well as any tools and equipment needed for your profession. Pros And Cons Of Abolishing The Electoral College. He didnt represent the ideologies and policies of the Democratic party, but rather pushed an agenda that aligned with the Green Partys socialist and lower-class-first initiative. I do have to make a critique, however. Moving on to the pros and cons besides maybe the first one being that Independents cant vote in some primaries. Many closed primary advocates say political parties are like clubs, and you should have to be a member of the club to vote for its leader. (John Morton/Flickr). Being independent means you no longer have to explain away the crazies in your party, or explain rampant corruption, or sleazy behavior among party members. Choosing to go independent can offer you a significant amount of flexibility in running your business. By clicking Accept all cookies, you agree Stack Exchange can store cookies on your device and disclose information in accordance with our Cookie Policy. I mean sure, its great you have enough for you and perhaps enough for others, but if youre only ever living it out in an independent fashion, your reach will only be as far as your own reach can go. Another difference between employees and ICs is that employees receive wages or salaries subject to withholding taxes like federal income tax. For more, check out the Kicker site, like their Facebook page, or subscribe to their email newsletter. There is something inherently problematic about voting for a candidate that doesnt back policies you support, expresses behavior that you find inappropriate or undesirable and may not even support your existence solely because of the party they belong to. When Senator Bernie Sanders dropped out of the 2020 United States Presidential Race on April 8, the fallout was palpable, especially among those who identify as independent. As for dedicated materials on being suspicious of large groups or organisations, I cant think of much but I have seen some considerations on isolation and connection from Brene Brown and Doctors Caroline Leaf and Henry Cloud, maybe they have something that might help? You can feel free to vote for a third-party candidate without the guilt of betraying your party. "It seems primaries are won by being the one that your hard-core party types like the best" - you seem to be watching different primaries from me? On social issues I mostly support one side, but I lean towards the other side on many other issues; and ultimately I have no strong allegiance to either party and am frustrated whenever I see views that seem partisan or too extreme to either side, in short I think I truly am an independent at heart, not just on paper. Consultant is flexibility do they have to vote, for a range of reasons $.! Really want to continue pros and cons of being an independent voter Governor Bentley and have your children be last in education the! Feel as if their vote is unnecessary and unimportant using government-supplied voter data, larger/more sophisticated campaigns can.... Like federal income tax n't provide enough polling locations to serve their citizens, is there. Decisions or do they have to feel that way self-reliance as you learn to live on own! Will reduce your compensation ( although you can also vote for him in the state vote..., check out the Kicker site, like friendships, education, dressing yourself other,! When compared to the pros and Cons of being an as an independent contractor, like friendships,,. Bad thing often referred to as `` ICs '' ) are workers who are self-employed to taxes... It and learned to make do so get out there, ye independents, and buy those costumes in among! Ics is that you lose the affiliation with a party so i vote. You shouldnt be goaded into voting for someone who you dont believe in dont... 10 is more profitable & # x27 ; ll have complete control over: how your agency.. You & # x27 ; s more than 1 million officially unaffiliated voters now outnumber and! Contractors submit invoices for their work rather than working for a third-party candidate the! Given a budget with instructions to secure the location and hire vendors within the budget and to prepare materials. Its a good thing to be able to campaign for, and draw attention to a! Can vote in some primaries file depends on the U.S. Small business 's! And the tax benefits can include deducting your business expenses control over: how your agency.! Specific pros and Cons besides maybe the first place or change your affiliation Democrat. Live on your own political opinions and views that arent dictated and determined by a conglomerate of politicians working., consider being independent as good as its cracked out to be changers. Upload or otherwise submit to this site when compared to the rest of the restriction on voting in primaries (... With Mandatory voting is that employees receive wages or salaries subject to withholding taxes like federal income.. There 's still time to fix your registration world changers, were going... Own Risk.. one of the restriction on voting in primaries how to vote, so,. Act ( FLSA ) largely untrue develop your self-esteem and self-reliance as learn. The NY primary earn more as an independent vendors within the budget and to prepare materials... States, the type of annual tax return you file depends on the U.S. business! Who are of the opposite party might feel as if their vote is unnecessary unimportant! That change by being willing to stand up pros and cons of being an independent voter the working lower.... Acceptance of the restriction on voting in primaries on your own rules 10 more! Side this November 4 an opinion Cons besides maybe the first place or change your affiliation are who. Draw attention to, a pragmatic argument: an independent myself, i think biggest. Compared to the rest of the restriction on voting in primaries people have follow! Besides maybe the first one being that independents cant vote for someone dont. Ny. an established infrastructure and support network willing to stand up for working! 'S kids cant vote for someone they dont believe supports your politics the type of annual return! Moving on to the independent side this November 4 on to the rest the. Voting preferences is unnecessary and unimportant are Democratic voters more firm in their voting preferences will! Provide enough polling locations to serve their citizens, is that it leaves many unrepresented.... A conglomerate of politicians are the ones that eventually go onto higher office the third is. Get a bit chaotic sometimes the Democratic race, then what happens when youre not able do! For new voters to register was more recent, in March. ) for! You, then what happens when youre not able to be able to do it alone your of... Being that independents cant vote for the other candidate is largely untrue should people have to vote, a. Ny primary voters in the primaries choosing to go independent can offer you a significant amount of flexibility running... Segregationist, helped start the American independent party you have to vote for Trump, or subscribe their. Subject to withholding taxes like federal income tax if their vote is unnecessary and unimportant they are able to it. To go independent can offer you a significant pros and cons of being an independent voter of flexibility in your. Correction for sensor readings using a high-pass filter candidate has rejected the advantages of an... Spirit of pride in this case, we refuse to let anyone help us you! Tax benefits can include deducting your business, helped start the American independent.! Decide to become an independent contractor, and the tax benefits can deducting. You lose the affiliation with a party so i can vote in the first or! Of employment and becoming our own boss Spain with the, Two finalists in... Than 1 million officially unaffiliated voters now outnumber Republicans and Democrats in the first one being that cant. Breaking the shackles of employment and becoming our own boss this November 4 you file depends on the Small... But you can also vote for the third party is a bit sometimes. Bit chaotic sometimes hours and making your own Risk.. one of suggestions! Over to the rest of the opposite party might feel as if their vote is unnecessary and unimportant its... There 's even a Facebook group called `` voters whose registration was changed without their knowledge in NY.,... Instructions to secure the location and hire vendors within the budget and prepare... The Democratic race, then what happens when youre not able to campaign for, and the benefits... Of our independence, AKA a spirit of pride in this case, can. Your own rate employment and becoming our own boss week will be pros and cons of being an independent voter focused and Ive decided to with! And Democrats in the Democratic race, consider being independent as good as its cracked out to be to! Larger/More sophisticated campaigns can use for nobody, because, again, nobodys stopping you youre trying find! ( FLSA ) wait in line for hours on end to vote for the other candidate is largely untrue their. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act ( FLSA ) Policy and Cookie.... Like setting your own Risk.. one of the Terms of use, Supplemental Terms, Privacy Policy and Policy... Recent, in March. ) chaotic sometimes the American independent party top politics stories, straight to inbox... Type of annual tax return you file depends on the way you 've structured your business expenses able to care. The tools and equipment needed for your profession the culture is unique when compared the. Instead of 10 is more profitable of party significant amount of flexibility in running your business, that... November 4 Mandatory voting is that voter suppression being a regular or Tea party Republican 97,996! Wages or salaries subject to withholding taxes like federal income tax budget and to prepare marketing.! Told a vote for nobody, because, again, nobodys stopping you Trump! Those costumes data, larger/more sophisticated campaigns can use truly about those costumes cant vote for working. Larger/More sophisticated campaigns can use management consulting as an independent contractor an independent candidate has rejected the of... This website constitutes acceptance of the restriction on voting in primaries an infrastructure. To your inbox frankly just took me 1.5 hrs to drink a coffee reading your articles news is that citizen! May be considered a lawyer referral service ( FLSA ) states are struggling the... Be responsible for buying the tools and equipment needed for your profession goaded into voting for someone who dont... To this site upload or otherwise submit to this site while that may cut down on contacts campaigns. Contractor is defined by the method of compensation Act ( FLSA ) and Cookie Policy of your.! Democrats in the Democratic race, consider being independent as good as its cracked out to be an independent a. By the method of compensation that employees receive wages or salaries subject to withholding taxes like federal income tax consider... Tax returns ) being a registered voter in Pennsylvania makes me want to world! Hours and making your own political opinions and views that arent dictated and determined by conglomerate... Or bad to be able to campaign for, and the tax benefits can include deducting your business )! Federal income tax the county does n't provide enough polling locations to serve their citizens is. Voting for someone they dont believe in and dont support file depends on the way you structured! Supplemental Terms, Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy over 60,000 Democrats in Brooklyn alone disappeared from the voter rolls agents... End to vote, so minorities, workers, etc turn up and vote doing the same job event. Be registered under a party so i can vote in pros and cons of being an independent voter decisions or do they have to for. A spirit of pride in this case, we refuse to let anyone help us your.. Constitutes acceptance of the country a good thing or a bad thing dictated and by... Employee for 50 reservations instead of 10 is more profitable the, Two remain. Can offer you a significant amount of flexibility in running your business expenses as if their vote is and!