Nathan Smolensky

Nathan is an independent strategist, consultant, and author. He works with candidates nationwide, specializing in viability and impact messaging strategies. When not in the trenches of a campaign, Nathan enjoys food, chess, and trivia.

The DSA Surge Has One Real Challenger—Independents

In New York City’s deepest-blue districts, Republicans are not a credible alternative—but coalition-minded independents could give voters the competition the closed primary system denies them.

By Nathan Smolensky

July 14, 2026

The DSA Surge Has One Real Challenger—Independents

The Two Parties Built Safe Seats. Independents Are Learning How to Break Them

There is an independent surge happening in 2026 that could turn “safe” seats into real contests—and make gerrymandering far less reliable.

By Nathan Smolensky

July 7, 2026

A lone independent candidate walking between red and blue political walls toward the U.S. Capitol, symbolizing independent campaigns challenging safe seats and gerrymandering.