U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema To Leave Democratic Party, Register As Independent

U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema has been an enigma during most of her time representing Arizona in Washington. The former Green Party activist turned Democrat has rankled some in her caucus with her views on the filibuster and other issues. Now, she is dropping the Democratic tag altogether. <br><br>Late on Friday, Sinema told Politico she will register as an Independent going forward. <br><br>This comes after the election earlier this week where Democrats defied historic trends and many predictions to hold control of the Senate by a slim margin. Political analysts say it likely means Democrats will keep the seat blue. <br><br>Sinema said in a statement to Politico, in part:<br><br>“Arizonans are independent – we don’t line up behind party leaders in lockstep or engage in petty warfare for sport or identity politics. We work, we think, and we choose for ourselves.” <br><br>Sen. Mark Kelly (D), who just won his re-election campaign, issued a statement praising the decision.<br><br>“Kyrsten has always been independent and willing to work with anyone to get things done. <br><br>Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) seemed to welcome her aboard.  <br><br>[Raises an eyebrow].