In this episode of Independent, Paul Johnson is joined by Bob Robb and Henry Thompson to react to the announcement speech of Hugh Lytle, the independent candidate for Governor of Arizona, a historic moment in a state that has never elected an independent governor.

As voter frustration with polarization and partisan gridlock continues to grow, the panel examines whether an independent governor could offer a real alternative to the two-party system. Paul breaks down what makes Lytle’s candidacy different, including his business and healthcare background and his emphasis on optimism, stability, and problem-solving.

The episode then turns to two of Arizona’s biggest challenges — housing affordability and the education crisis — before closing with a discussion of recent events in Minneapolis, highlighting how political polarization is worsening governance, eroding public trust, and creating an opening where an independent candidate could make a meaningful difference.