Once again, false. At least in FL. I was able to vote who I wanted to vote for, and didn't have to choose either. I agree, though, that the D's shot themselves in the foot. Biden or Sanders might be president today, if the DNC hadn't been beholden to The Narrative.
Edit: Nevermind, I see what you're saying. Part of the reason for the independent vote was to try to get to the 5%, so that they could be invited to debates, get some ad time, etc. Obviously it didn't happen this election, because of "hold-your-nose voters (on both sides)", but you're right...being Team Elephant or Team Donkey isn't helpful.