Being a radical leftist is a personal point of view. It's a subjective opinion. For some, Obama may not represent a distinct difference from McCain.

You, with your clearly republican and conservative bias, look at Obama and see radical leftist. And independent doesn't carry that bias. Ergo, when shown Obama's record and speeches, they may not classify him as a radical leftist.

In fact, I would hazard to say that if they were inclined to believe he is a radical leftist, they would have made up their minds and wouldn't be independent in the first place.

They'd be you.

Not everybody shares your priorities or values. So assuming they will respond the way that you think it "right," is kinda silly.

But that's ok. I hear you eat babies for breakfast. Of course, the other side has them for dinner, so it all balances out.