Howard County - This year’s elections might mark the power of the independent voter.

With closely-matched races for governor and Senate, the swelling number of independent voters could sway state and local elections.

“Independent voters could really become a strong presence. They should be motivated to go out and make the change. They certainly have it in their hand,” said Mona Brinegar, the founder of a new group, Independent Voters in Howard County.

In the state, voters who are neither Republican nor Democrat make up about 16 percent of active voters. In Howard County, they make up about 19 percent.

Howard County residents should turn to independent or small party candidates when they feel under-represented, said Kevin Zeese, an independent candidate running for the United States Senate, at a meeting of the Independent Voters in Howard County organization at Miller Library in Ellicott City Monday.

“The two parties treat us like children. People are seeing corruption. They aren’t seeing solutions. They are bankrupt parties with no ideas,” Zeese said.

“You don’t have to vote Republican or Democrat. Find the courage in yourself and avoid the urge to be average,” said Stephen Wallis, an independent candidate for Howard County executive who spoke at the event.

The problems the county faces, such as uncontrolled growth, could be remedied by new, independent leaders who are not affiliated with big business, said Angela Beltram, leader of Citizens for an Open Process for Everyone.

At a glance

There are a total of 486,426 voters who are neither Republicans nor Democrats in Maryland, according to the state Board of Elections. They include: