As of 2014, 42% of Americans claim to identify as something other than Democrat or Republican, yet the Untied States is still largely ruled by these two political parties since they still represent the vast majority of registered voters. Why do so many identify with political parties other than the big two, yet still remain registered with the big two? I don’t know, I’m not a political scientist, but common sense makes me want to see the 42% who identify as something else actually register as something else.

This Independence Day, take some time to consider if the ideals of your political party still match your own, and re-register if necessary. Stand with who you are supposed to, not who you were told to.

Don’t neglect the smaller political parties either. It is becoming clear that the United States needs a strong third party if any significant legislative progress is to be made these days. Without a third competing force, we’re left with two organizations who spend most days blocking each other’s progress since they are practically the antithesis of each other.

If you are either unsure or strongly unwavering in devotion to your current political party, take this quiz. You should know that I never advocate making decisions based solely on quizzes, but this one will give you a great start to your own research.