The big question!
Why vote for an independent?
Just think of the time an MP could have if they were not distracted by party responsibilities and the pull of positions of power.
It is not true that an independent MP serves no purpose at Westminster and is a wasted vote. The argument is that an independent MP will have no effect because he or she will be a member of neither the ruling party nor a powerful opposition. This is simply not true; in each election, the public says they want change, but change requires bravery, and one easy step is having more independent and minor parties at Westminster to question the no-longer-working norm. An independent MP will make a bold statement and show the desire for change, Witney and the surrounding towns and villages will be at the centre of this. As for influence, a hardworking, intelligent MP who has been elected as an independent (rather than being elected to a party and removed) will stand out at Westminster, bring a new dawn to Westminster, and put our area at the heart of British politics.
Some argue that a vote for an independent candidate is a wasted vote, but is it?
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Are there benefits to an MP who has their whole focus on their constituent?
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Are there benefits to an MP who does not follow the party line?
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Are there benefits to having an MP who is not influenced by unions or business groups?
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Are there benefits to having an MP who has a plan for their constituents rather than a one-size-fits-all national agenda being peddled as "bespoke community solutions"?
Unlike all party MPs, particularly those from a ruling party, I will have no allegiance to a party, government, or leadership, allowing me to push harder on issues that are important to you while avoiding traditional pressures from party leadership, the outdated Whipps system, or the fear of being passed over for career advancement. Trusting your vote to an independent is a significant step, but one that many people believe has immense promise for West Oxfordshire.
My approach will be to listen to you in a way that no other party-led candidates will. I will build a plan for you, the people of West Oxfordshire, again, in a way that no other party-led candidates will do or can do.
As an independent candidate, I pledge to be your mouthpiece in any way that I can, regardless of the outcome of the election. I stand for the people of West Oxfordshire, as I have for nearly 20 years. However, as I am not standing behind the traditions of a standard political party with deeply ingrained awareness, a long history with the public, and widespread support, it will take beating near-impossible odds to be heard, understood, and voted for—a challenge that is daunting but exciting. While I will experience all the disadvantages of being an independent candidate who will be battling against an established process, I will promise you that I will be listening to your concerns, your ideas, and your dreams for your family more than any nationally represented party.
Some argue that a vote for an independent candidate is a wasted vote, but is it?
-
Are there benefits to an MP who has their whole focus on their constituent?
-
Are there benefits to an MP who does not follow the party line?
-
Are there benefits to having an MP who is not influenced by unions or business groups?
-
Are there benefits to having an MP who has a plan for their constituents rather than a one-size-fits-all national agenda being peddled as "bespoke community solutions"?