A new poll from the Independent Center highlights a clear message from the public: Americans are fed up with the current political leadership, and they’re ready for change.

Voters are now more likely to say it’s time to replace the current cabinet leadership, reflecting growing frustration with the way Washington operates. But the poll's findings aren't just about discontent. They’re also about possibility. 

According to the Independent Center, voters still see a path to rebuilding trust if leaders are willing to listen. “Voters are tired of the noise and the blame games,” said Lura Forcum, the group’s president. 

They want leaders who listen, who act, and who put people over politics. This poll is a wake-up call – not just for the cabinet, but for the entire political establishment.”

Gerrymandering and the Erosion of Trust

Beyond leadership concerns, the poll shows a growing unease with gerrymandering, the manipulation of district boundaries for partisan gain. Respondents overwhelmingly agreed that distorted maps silence voters and weaken accountability.

In fact, 64% of respondents agreed that politicians who draw their own districts are “rigging the election.” The poll's results found that many Americans see this as a root cause of political dysfunction and 56% support the use of independent redistricting commissions.

“Gerrymandering isn’t just a technical issue—it’s a trust issue,” Forcum said. “When voters feel like the system is rigged, they check out. And that’s exactly what the parties are counting on.”

Independents Rising: From “Spoilers” to “Fresh Start”

The Independent Center’s data captures an important cultural shift: While not yet a majority, 46% of respondents viewed independent and third-party candidates as a “fresh start,” and a credible and necessary alternative to the two parties.

For decades, independents were dismissed as spoilers or outliers. But as polarization deepens and partisan leaders fail to solve everyday problems, these candidates are being viewed in an entirely different light.

“The old narrative is breaking down,” said Adam Brandon, Senior Advisor to the Independent Center Voice and Independent PAC. 

Voters are far more likely to consider independent candidates as Republicans and Democrats fail to address their concerns—they’re looking for a new way. Independents can force cooperation and restore common-sense governance.”

Voters have left a clear mandate at the voting booth that continues to be ignored by those in power: Americans are not just frustrated – they’re looking for results. As Brandon notes, the shift shown in the data is less about ideology and more about integrity and performance.

“It’s about accountability, responsiveness, and results,” he said. “Americans are ready to move past the partisan gridlock. The only question is whether Washington is ready to listen.”

The poll found that 77% of respondents held a favorable view of politicians willing to work with both sides – something that is rare in today’s political climate.

With trust in government near historic lows, this latest poll reinforces a growing movement that spans ideological lines. Voters are demanding leaders – regardless of party – who put people first, tackle gerrymandering, and bring accountability back to the center of governance.