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When I criticized the Republican Party, local officials told me I should leave. I said no. Why? Because nonpartisanship is JUST as Nebraskan as corn. Allow me to explain:
In Nebraska we have one of the most beautiful and unique forms of government in the United States. We have a one-house, non-partisan legislature. It is called a “Unicameral” legislature and we are the ONLY one in the country.
In our elections, one’s party affiliation is NOT listed on the ballot for Legislature. In our primaries, the two candidates who receive the most votes face each other in the general election (regardless of party). Independents are therefore not locked out of the process!
Unlike other states, there are NO party caucuses. Nebraska's legislative leadership is not based on party affiliation.
Our deliberately non-partisan Unicameral was conceived of by Nebraska Senator George Norris, put on the ballot by petition and implemented in 1937. Previously, Nebraska was a partisan body but Norris FOUGHT for this nonpartisan structure.
He argued that such a body would allow senators to concentrate on local interests WITHOUT being influenced by the dictates of national political parties. According to Norris:
“Men in legislatures, elected on a partisan platform, are inclined to follow the bidding and dictates of party machines and party bosses"
Norris (a Republican btw) is LIONIZED in Nebraska. A bronze bust of George Norris adorns the hallway outside the main legislative body, the “Norris Chamber.”
So. When I criticize my own party, I do so in the TRADITION of this great man. I aspire to be a George Norris Republican. 
