The Byrne household is split. Donald, a moderate republican, has thrown his support firmly in Jon Huntsman's corner. His wife, Melinde, is an independent who says she's leaning toward Mitt Romney.

Both agree Washington is in desperate need of change and are sick of watching partisan politics divide the country.

Though the two enjoy engaging in regular civil debate concerning their candidates and politics in general, Melinde admitted her husband's candidate may have earned a slight edge last night when he visited the Byrne's Bedford home for a well-attended house party.

Many of those present were registered Democrates, some, like Melinde, were independents, and of course, there was a strong contingent of local Republicans. Almost everyone left impressed with Huntsman, some even saying they wished there was still time to change party affiliations prior to the Jan. 10 primary, simply so they could cast a vote for him.

"In some respects I'm an agnostic political because I really care about what the issues are, as opposed to the parties and personalities," said Sharon Sergeant, a local independent voter. "He's talking about family values, economic sanity, being able to trust your leaders, you know, lots of things that are really important.

"He doesn't mince words. He's very straight-forward," she added. "I'm glad I had the chance for him to give so much information. I didn't get the sense there was any rhetoric."

Huntsman won many local voters over when he discussed his support of term limits, regulatory reform and energy independence. Many were especially impressed with his resume, particularly his past successes as Utah governor and experience as China ambassador.

"I think, as we look out into the economy, having somebody who really understands not only national and international affairs, but understands the culture of the Chinese, understands who the leaders and upcoming leaders are, well, that's a huge advantage," said Donald Byrne.