New poll shows surge in independent affiliation in Idaho
BOISE — More Idahoans are identifying as independents and outnumber both parties in the state for the first time in many years, according to a new poll from Idaho Politics Weekly.
Pollster Dan Jones, of Dan Jones and Associates in Utah, presented findings from the June poll at a luncheon Thursday at Zions Bank. Along with bankers and lawyers, several lawmakers were also present, including Reps. Robert Anderst, Gary Collins and Rick Youngblood of Nampa. Jones has been involved in politics for more than 50 years and has been polling for more than two decades. The June poll surveyed 610 Idaho residents with a margin of error of plus or minus 4 percent.
Jones’ data showed 38 percent of Idahoans now identify as independent, compared to 32 percent who identify as Republican and 16 percent Democrats.
Among those independents, 38 percent say they wish the Republican party was more moderate, while 24 percent feel it should be more conservative.
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