This idea has been coalescing for some time in my head. I've noticed the role of third parties and "independent" candidates in elections for some time now.

However, most "independents" have, in the past, been simply members of the mainstream party that have, for one reason or another, decided to call themselves "independent." They vote with the leadership, for the most part.

Now we're seeing the idea that maybe some real "independents" will start having influence. Leiberman, for example. The "Blue Dog Democrats." McCain certainly seems headed that way, and maybe some others.

What's really new is that we're seeing not just an "Independent Party" here, but real independents, and seeing them getting elected over mainstream party nominees.

Imagine a House or Senate where a significant number are truly independent, not only refusing to go in lockstep with the Democrats or Republicans, but even with each other. Dealmaking would become even more of an art that it is now.

This could actually be a good thing. Politicians with views that don't fit either main party get a chance at power, almost like a sideways parliamentary system. Such politicians would be more likely to closely match the views of their constituents, and not the views of Washington leaders. Decentralizing politics, as it were.

Libertarian Party? Green Party?

Parties? Parties? We don't need no stinking parties!

The future of politics? The Party of One.

I like it.