How would you explain the meaning of an "independent" to a student who is interested in politics and lives in L.T.? A teacher would say we have three Republican party affiliated council people. The mayor and deputy mayor called themselves independents, who are registered Republicans with the county. Well, the student says aren't there voters who can register as independent with the county? Yes says the teacher, but these councilman are disgruntled Republicans who are not backed by the party in elections. The student then states, then they should register as disgruntled. Basic 101 politics!