Independent Nation gives you the day’s 5 essential reads for independents and centrists:
1. “2012 Election Ended With Deluge of Donations and Spending,” at The New York Times. The dark money taps were opened wide as the 2012 election cycle came to a close.
2. “The Dick Morris/Newsmax Super PAC Boondoggle,” at Media Matters.Seems the pundit may have saved some money over the election cycle to burn through while he sits out at Fox.
3. “Obama Wins Again,” at The Daily Beast.The fiscal cliff fight can play out in different ways, writes Robert Shrum, but Obama will win.
4. “Mr. President, Don’t Even Think About It,” at The Dish.Will the Feds push back on pot?
5. “The Drug Benefit Fiasco,” at The Daily Beast.Daniel Gross on the fiscal cliff hostage situation, day 31.
Send stories for the Independent Rundown to Matt DeLuca at matt.deluca@newsweekdailybeast.com. Follow him on Twitter: @DeLucaMattS.