In a 2003 study by the National Journal of key votes by the 435 members of the U.S. House, only 19 Democratic House members voted more with Republicans than Matheson. The Journal says Matheson voted 58 percent of the time with Democrats on the clearly partisan votes the newspaper considered; he voted 42 percent of the time with Republicans.

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Congressional Quarterly in its own study found only eight Democratic House members voted with Republicans more often than Matheson. And one of those recently switched to the Republican Party.

Matheson denies that his voting record is influenced by the fact he's from GOP-dominated Utah, representing a district that votes about 60 percent Republican, 20 percent Democratic and 20 percent independent.

"I have my own (political) agenda," says Matheson. He takes pride in what he terms his "independent" voting, not following any party line.

The Democratic Party platform "is not a guide for me, never has been," even when he's known what's in it, says Matheson.

Republicans are quick to point out that they believe Matheson votes with the Democratic leaders 75 percent of the time; and so, they argue, he's not representing most of his constituents.

"But that 75 percent includes hundreds of procedural votes like will the House further debate a bill or allow a Democratic amendment to even be heard," says Matheson. "Of course I vote with the Democrats on those. I want more debate; want to hear amendments."

"But on substantive," partisan issues measured in surveys like the National Journal's or Congressional Quarterly's, "I go my own way."

Yes, he admits, there are some clear votes where he's opposed the Republican majority. "I voted against their budget" because it is burying the country in debt, he said.