What does it really take to run a grassroots, independent campaign? From early mornings to late nights, this post gives you an honest, unfiltered look at the daily reality of breaking the system.
The Grind of an Independent Campaign: Running a grassroots campaign to break the system is not glamorous—it’s about commitment, endurance, and knowing that every minute counts. This is what a typical day looks like when you’re fighting for true independence.
Morning and Afternoon Narrative
6:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Coffee, Data, and Compliance
The morning is all about execution. While the major party candidates are briefing media outlets, we’re focused on policy and compliance. The first few hours are spent handling the necessary administrative grind, like finalizing the Wix site redirect plan, ensuring FEC reporting is flawless, and reviewing our existing policies. For instance, we are currently reviewing one policy to ensure full compliance with a new federal act—a necessary step the D.C. establishment often ignores. This campaign is fueled by direct connection, not PAC money; we recently received two $1 donations from my daughters. While the processing fees reduced the final amount, that act of commitment from the next generation is more valuable than any corporate check.
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM: The Real Campaign Trail
Whether it’s a small-town diner, a community center, or an impromptu street corner stop, the afternoon is reserved for listening. These aren’t polished rallies; they are town halls where people talk about their bills, their jobs, and their frustration with D.C. We trade the fancy photo-ops for honest, unfiltered Q&A sessions where nothing is off the table.
The afternoon is reserved for listening. These are not polished rallies; they are genuine town halls where constituents share their bills, jobs, and frustration with D.C. We trade fancy photo-ops for honest Q&A where nothing is off the table.
As an independent, gaining media access requires creativity. We prioritize digital live streams and direct social media engagement over waiting for invitations from traditional news outlets, ensuring our message isn’t filtered or distorted.
Our small team runs lean, fast, and driven. Every evening involves a quick, focused session to review logistics, coordinate local outreach, and plan for the next day. Every single person wears multiple hats, driven by a shared mission to break the system.
