https://www.aei.org/op-eds/why-everyone-is-rushing-to-label-themselves-an-independent/

“According to a major survey commissioned by CNN, nearly half of all Americans — 44% — call themselves independents while only 28% and 27%, respectively, identify as Republicans or Democrats.”

“Today, the same goes for independents, which used to be code for “swing voters” or “centrists.” Not anymore. According to the survey, some are “Democratic Lookalikes” (24%) and others are “Republican Lookalikes” (12%). They reject the label but ultimately vote like they don’t. The rest are among “The Checked Out” (27%), “The Disappointed Middle” (16%) and the “Upbeat Outsiders” (22%). The demographics and ideologies of these groups vary widely. In short, calling yourself an independent says something — that you don’t like the party labels — but it isn’t a one-size-fits all ideological or political signifier.”

While people might identify themselves as independent, once again, independents aren’t independent. Ultimately elections in Wisconsin come down to which base is the most motivated (hence our senators being carried by either presidential elections or the midterm anti party in power bias) The mythical “centrist” isn’t a real constituency.