Since 2002, Republican registration has fallen 9.3 percent. Democrats have gained 2.4 percent. But the ranks of those unaffiliated with either major party have increased 7 percent and, as of October 2009, they now outnumber Democrats in the district. This district has the highest percentage of residents with college degrees in the state and also ranks as one of the most affluent districts with the fewest residents living in poverty and the third-highest per-capita income. It also ranks in the top-third in terms of percentage of residents over 18 with military service.