Building a New Democratic Wave
Run for Something Accepts the Challenge
Run for Something Accepts the Challenge
The Democratic Party stands at a crucial juncture. At a time when young individuals increasingly turn toward Republican ideals, despite the figure of Donald Trump, there's a pressing need to reinvigorate the Democrats. This involves investing in young, bright leaders poised to reshape the party's path.
Amanda Litman, the founder and president of Run for Something, an organization devoted to recruiting and supporting young, diverse progressives running for local office, has taken up that challenge and her organization is making huge inroads in attracting and supporting young, dynamic progressives running for office.
Run for Something emerged amidst this reality, taking root after the 2016 presidential elections. Founded by Litman and Ross Morales Rocko and launched on Trump's first inauguration day, the organization hoped initially to gather perhaps 100 potential candidates. It was soon apparent, however, that the need was far greater, as evidenced by the overwhelming 1,000 sign-ups in just the first week.
Since then, the organization has identified nearly 225,000 young people eager to make a difference and help elect over 1,500 millennials and Zoomers in various races, including State House, State Senate, city councils, school boards, and library boards. Notably, these candidates are fresh faces rather than seasoned politicians, defined by their authentic desire to serve their communities.
What’s Driving the Change?
Amanda underscores the importance of authenticity and clear values in young leaders. Millennials and Gen Z are often characterized by their refusal to tolerate inauthenticity, a stark contrast to the older generations. "No more bullshit," she warns. These young leaders excel at communicating their frustrations and perspectives in ways that resonate today, mastering modern communication tools and approaches such as Slack, Zoom, and social media platforms.
The Catalysts of Change: Zohran Mamdani and AOC
An example of this energetic new leadership is Zohran Mamdani, whose recent primary victory in New York elicited a massive influx of interest from young candidates wanting to run for office.
Similarly, figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) embody the progressive ideals of the younger generation, often described as a democratic socialist. Their conviction, clear values, and ability to connect with young people's lives and challenges, such as housing costs and childcare, are pivotal for energizing young voters.
While there is a faction of the Democratic establishment wary of these new faces, Amanda argues for embracing distinct, clearly held values rather than succumbing to fear or opposition definition. Candidates like Mamdani and AOC discourage political cowardice and demonstrate that a strong stance on issues like socialism, minimum wage, universal childcare, and healthcare can capture the electorate's imagination.
Democrats, she says, are all too worried about what Republicans "think" about their positions on issues -- an attitude that can only lead to defeat.
Engagement and Support
For those looking to get involved or learn more, Amanda Litman's new book, "When We're in Charge," serves as a guide for upcoming leaders from the Millennial and Gen Z generations. Check it out here.
Meanwhile, Run for Something continues its mission. They not only encourage young people to run but also guide them through the intricate process of political candidacy, offering support in campaign planning, grassroots voter contact, and beyond.
Run for Something needs ongoing support to sustain and expand its vital work. Find more information or contribute to their mission at Run for Something’s website.
By equipping young progressives with the tools and support they need, Run for Something ensures the Democratic Party has a robust future, echoing the sentiments of the leaders of tomorrow and fostering a political environment that better reflects the needs and ideals of upcoming generations.