Many "independents" actually Republicans? 23% of caucus-goers are independents, per CNN

[UrbScotty]

http://www.cnn.com/election/2012/primaries/epolls/ia

So when you see/hear claims about Obama not doing well among independents, remember that. (And remember the 2008 general election exit poll in which Obama only won the independent vote 52-44% despite getting 53% of the actual vote nationwide.)

[Joe the Revelator]

1. Because the republicans are the only game in town this year...

If I lived in Iowa, I'd caucus in a year like this as an 'independent' for whoever I felt the democrat had the best chance of beating.

[joeglow3]

2. Not a big deal

Why would they want to go to the Democrats caucus? They want their voice heard, so they choose they one they can influence. Nothing more...

[Ikonoklast]

3. Lots of Republicans suddenly realized they were 'Independents' two years ago.

No one wants to be associated with a damaged brand.

[RBInMaine]

4. These "indies" are really right wingers who always vote R. There are similar liberal indies.

[SixthSense]

5. it's called an open primary

anyone can vote in it

so if you're an independent and have a choice of the no-choice-to-make Democratic primary or having an influence on the GOP primary, what are you going to pick?

[RBInMaine]

6. But most who would bother to vote in this are ideologues. They are R's who just aren't registered.

[SixthSense]

7. not necessarily

I know some Democrats have gone to vote in the caucus for "Operation Chaos" type purposes. Ironic isn't it?

[joeglow3]

8. Bull

Look at the numbers from Iowa showing people switching to Republican lately. It is for primarily one reason: influence the Caucus.