2010 could be a good year for independents

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28 (UPI) -- Dissatisfaction with both major U.S. political parties could be a boon for independents running for governor in the United States, strategists say.

Currently, there are at least half a dozen instances where independents are poised to wage serious 2010 gubernatorial campaigns, the Politico reported Monday.

In New Jersey, independent Chris Daggett, a moderate former Republican, is running against current Democratic Gov. Jon Corzine and GOP candidate Chris Christie.

A recent survey released by Public Policy Polling placed Daggett in third place with 13 percent of the vote, a significant portion for a non-major party candidate.

In Rhode Island, the independent candidacy of former Republican Lincoln Chafee is viewed as hurting Democratic chances to capture an open governor's seat.

Wide-open governor's races in Maine, Minnesota and Vermont are expected to draw viable independent candidates, insiders say.

In Massachusetts, Democratic Gov. Deval Patrick is facing a serious third-party challenge from a former colleague.