Centrist Project, Which Backed Pressler in 2014, Looks Ahead

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — A political action committee that backed independent U.S. Senate candidate Larry Pressler in 2014 is hoping that voters will be more open to shedding their partisan ties in 2016.

The Centrist Project aims to empower a growing political middle by channeling the support of moderate Americans to a handful of key U.S. Senate hopefuls. Founder Charles Wheelan says a small caucus of independent senators could help bridge the gap that has kept Republicans and Democrats from reaching compromises.

But he says getting people to donate money to — and vote for — candidates who lack a major party's backing is a huge challenge.

Pressler, a former Republican, ran for South Dakota's open seat as an independent in 2014. When he surged in the polls, he got attacked from both sides.

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