Sharp Change In Troops' Political Affiliation

A new survey from the Military Times says that a full third of respondents have shifted their political affiliation from Republican to Independent. The survey showed that these troops still identify as "conservative," but don't identify with the GOP.

The Military Times questioned 1,800 active-duty "officers, mid-grade and senior enlisted members."

Here's how they feel about national affairs, according to the Marine Corps Times:

Respondents are also more pessimistic about the mission in Afghanistan, more optimistic about Iraq and virtually divided about President Obama’s performance as commander in chief.