AIVN FAQ’s

Why this Network? What problem are we trying to solve?

Arizona’s independent-minded voters have had no way of talking with each other. Others talk about us, often at us, but rarely with us. We have two communication glitches: 1) among ourselves and 2) with everyone else. Our Network responds to that need.

• What does this look like in practice?
• Communicating, motivating, facilitating, and acting, not controlling;
• Networking statewide and locally to respect our diverse needs and perspectives;
• Offering connectivity between independent-minded voters;
• Securing accuracy as the defining quality of our shared information;
• Empowering and amplifying the voices of Independent Voters in our governance; and
• Respecting the right of each voter to choose how he or she votes.

Why now?

Polling consistently indicates that around seventy percent of Americans think our nation is on the wrong track. Politics are violently dividing us. Arizona is not exempt. Independent Voters are already part of the solution, as these points demonstrate:

• Independent Voters have often made the difference in key elections—even without the kind of coordinating infrastructure owned by the Democratic and Republican parties.
• The long struggle by Independent Voters to have equal voting rights has a new energy and some states are now implementing creative election system reforms.
• If ever we needed a “leavening” influence following the bruising 2024 elections, it is now. Accurately informed Independent Voters can help.

Are any other states experimenting with new ideas for improving elections and opening up better access for Independent Voters?

Absolutely. There are several, including California, Maine, Washington, and Alaska. Each is unique. Many cities are also experimenting with new systems. A lot of experience and learning is going on. We will endeavor to provide updates as they are available to inform our Networkers.

I am unclear about the meaning of “Independent Voter.” Who are we?

Independent Voters are citizens unaffiliated with a “recognized” political party. That effectively means the Democratic and Republican parties in Arizona. Our Network also welcomes party members who think independently and respect voters outside the party structure.

• “Independent” is not a party. It is a mindset that reflects these beliefs:
• We are highly interdependent as a society and do not live solely in disconnected “silos.”
• Independent does not equate with isolation; it means thinking beyond arbitrary constraints.
• Increasingly narrow and toxic party tribalism is not providing the governance quality we need.
• Our elected leaders need to focus on solving problems, which transcend party identity.
• Reason and moderation are essential to best serve our diverse and complex society.
• Extremism is Constitutional as long as it is not violent, but it solves nothing.

Do I have to be registered as “other” (Arizona’s term for Independent Voters) to be part of this Network?

No. Anyone who considers himself/herself an independent thinker about voting is welcome. Many members of political parties vote outside of party lines even though they may generally prefer many party positions. See “mindset” under “Independent Voter,” above

Look, I get the bit about better information and all, but I want action! How do I get that?

You get it by collaborating with others seeking the action you support. You have the benefit of more accurate information and linkages to people you would never know about otherwise. This is the connectivity parties offer without the narrow control mentality they demand. You can join with local affiliates or even lead one or join other organizations promoting the actions you support. If you believe you already know everything you want to know, the Network isn’t for you.

Who runs the Network?

The people who are part of it. A Network Central that evolved from its founders guides the Network’s policies and operations. Communication Central operates the communication system. Think of this as a cooperative, in which participants invest whatever level of effort they can to a common purpose.

Who pays for all of this?

Our current “funding” is sweat equity by volunteers who are working to build the Network. That will continue, because this is an “active” versus “passive” enterprise. At some point, we will set up a means to accept donations. We do not currently envision a paid membership system.

Will the Network endorse candidates or propositions?

Yes, if the candidates or propositions are consistent with our Vision and Mission Statements. Briefly, we will promote candidates who are respectful, truthful, civil and exhibit dedication to principled compromise to resolve public issues. We will support legislation that addresses the issues of greatest importance to Arizonan’s. According to a 2024 study by the Center for the Future of Arizona, there are four main issues of concern:

• Education
• State Spending
• Immigration
• Housing

What if an individual in the Network becomes a candidate?

We hope that will happen—a lot! Why? Because we believe the people who are active in the Network will also be among our most well informed citizens. We trust they will largely be problem solvers in orientation. The Network is “not for sale” to candidates or campaigns—or anyone else.

Are people from outside of Arizona free to be part of the Network?

No. This Network is exclusively Arizonans. We appreciate words of support that may arise outside of Arizona, including the media. But this is an endeavor on behalf of Arizona’s 1.4 million registered Independent Voters and others who support independent thinking outside of party control. The Network belongs to us, not to any outside interests. That includes funding; we will pay our own way.