Political party loyalty isn’t what it used to be.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. โ New data shows a record number of voters are stepping away from traditional labels, and itโs changing the political landscape.
More voters are breaking away from the two-party system.
A new NBC News analysis shows independents and third-party registrations are growing fast.
In 2025, 32% of registered voters chose not to join the Democratic or Republican parties.
Thatโs up from 23% in 2000, which is a record high.
Experts say many voters are frustrated with politics and feel parties donโt represent them.
Younger voters in particular are rejecting party labels altogether.
North Carolina has seen an especially sharp increase in independent registration.
In 2024, nearly 39% of the electorate was unaffiliated with either major party. Thatโs nearly from 2000.
Even in deep red or blue states, voters are opting out of traditional party lines. But even as more people register as unaffiliated, most still vote for major party candidates.
Still, the shift is creating challenges for both parties.
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