166 – Independent Idiosyncrasies with Brett Loyd

"The biggest takeaway from the 2024 election," writes Justin Longo of the Independence Center, is that "independents have officially broken the duopoly and now share the title of America's largest political group with Republicans."  But what is an independent, exactly?  What do they want and how are they different from those who proudly affiliate with the Republican or Democratic parties?  And what might this portend for the future of American politics?   Saving Elephants host Josh Lewis is joined by pollster Brett Loyd to make sense of the rise of the independents in the electorate.   About Brett Loyd   President and CEO of The Bullfinch Group, Brett Loyd is a leading researcher and campaign strategist, being one of the few political operatives to accurately forecast the 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020 presidential elections.   With his methods unswayed by external influences, Brett has built a reputation as a trusted and insightful partner to presidential, senatorial, congressional, and gubernatorial candidates; national political committees; and corporate and issue campaigns. His unbiased and data-first approach has delivered research, insights, analysis, and recommendations that have led to wins from the highest levels of U.S. campaign politics to local policy initiatives, and among his trade association, NGO, and Fortune 500 clients' efforts.   This extensive experience also allows Brett to serve as a reputable advisor to DC's embassy and foreign relations community, advising international government relations firms as well as ambassadors and their diplomatic staff in Washington and abroad.   Brett Loyd began his career in statistics and political science after graduating from Iowa State University and the University of Northern Iowa. Following his start in state politics, Brett moved to Washington, DC in 2007 where he and his wife still reside with their dog Falkor and goldfish Doug.   About The Independence Center   The Independence Center is an organization dedicated to building a movement of independent-thinkers with Leaders who support centrist common sense compromise. The Independent Center's mission is advocate for the millions of Americans who believe we share common ground and to promote and support candidates who share those values through research and outreach.   Have you heard?  Saving Elephants is now on YouTube!   Saving Elephants now has YouTube channel, featuring full-length episodes, exclusive shorts, and even live events! Check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/@savingelephants