Some Politicians See Running as Independent a Risky Proposition

By Samantha Hayes, CNN|News9.com Contributor

WASHINGTON -- More Americans are registered as an Independent than either Republican or Democrat, but many candidates, including some in Oklahoma, see running on the Independent ticket as a risky proposition.

Independent candidates seem to be shaping the midterm elections, now less than two months away.

In Oklahoma's District 5, Dave White dropped out this week, citing a common concern of Independent candidates, that he would split the vote with Republican James Lankford and possibly give the Democratic candidate Billy Coyle an unintended boost.

In other races outside Oklahoma, the Tea Party has played a role in influencing the rise of Independent candidates.

Marco Rubio in Florida, the republican nominee for one senate seat, essentially with the help of the Tea Party and conservative voters, have pushed the Republican governor, Charlie Crist, out of the GOP. Crist is now running as an Independent, though he may garner more votes from Democrats than he takes away from Republicans.

In Alaska, Lisa Murkowski, who was ousted in her primary by an outsider Tea Party supported candidate, may decide to also run as an Independent, which could change the dynamic in that race as well.

Meet Oklahoma's Candidates | Voting 101: Election Guide 

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