Independents are voters who register with no political party. In some states, such as New Jersey, the number of Independents rivals the number of registered Republicans and Democrats.
In closed primaries, such as in Arizona, Florida and Missouri, the Independents have no influence because the political parties allow only their registered voters to participate. But in open primaries such as in New Hampshire and Michigan, Independents can influence the outcome.
In general elections Independents can greatly influence the outcome.