In an era of political polarization, the Democratic Party faces pressing questions: Can it rebuild trust among voters?
Will it adapt its strategy to secure wins in the 2026 and 2028 elections? Zee Cohen Sanchez, founder of the grassroots consulting firm Sole Strategies, offers an insider’s perspective on what’s next for the Democratic Party—and how her journey from living in an RV to building a million-dollar political organization parallels the challenges facing the party today.
The Grassroots Gap: Reconnecting with Voters
Zee believes the key to revitalizing the Democratic Party lies in a fundamental shift from impersonal tactics to genuine voter engagement. “Advertising and mail are just a very impersonal touch,” she explains. “Real conversations with American voters about what they care about—this is what resonates.”
Sole Strategies focuses on deep voter connections, particularly in rural areas where Democratic messaging often falters. By employing movement-style campaigns, the organization emphasizes grassroots field operations that reach voters in meaningful ways.
The Challenges of Establishment Politics
One recurring theme in the discussion is the entrenched nature of establishment politics. Zee criticizes the Democratic Party’s reliance on outdated strategies and uninspiring candidates. Reflecting on the 2020 election cycle, she notes, “We hoped that January 6th would mark the end of Trump and MAGA. Instead, it was only the beginning of an uphill battle.”
Zee argues that the party’s focus on maintaining the status quo rather than embracing populist candidates like Bernie Sanders has cost them dearly. “Their biggest fear is us running a populist candidate,” she says, referencing comments from MAGA operatives. “They know that if we start offering something of substance—like Medicare for All or a $20 minimum wage—they’re in trouble.”
Building a Sustainable Model: Lessons from Entrepreneurship
Zee’s entrepreneurial journey is an inspiring story of resilience and strategic thinking. At just 27 years old, she took a leap of faith, leaving a low-paying union job to launch Sole Strategies. Living in a 1984 RV with no hot water, she worked tirelessly to connect with political candidates who aligned with her vision.
Her approach was simple yet effective: sending 50 personalized messages every night to prospective clients. “I wasn’t really selling them anything,” she explains. “They already knew they needed support. All I had to do was show them that we were the people they needed to work with.”
This strategy paid off, with Sole Strategies generating over $1 million in its first year. Zee credits this success to her team’s authenticity and commitment to their mission. “We sold our dream, vision, and ourselves,” she says. “That’s why we ended up where we are today.”
Why Populism Could Be the Answer
Zee is clear about what she believes the Democratic Party needs to do: embrace a working-class message and populist candidates. “The establishment elite have been in charge for far too long, and their laziness is costing elections,” she asserts.
Citing examples like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Rashida Tlaib, Zee points to the power of candidates who authentically represent their communities. “If we run on issues that matter—like healthcare and living wages—there’s no limit to what we can achieve.”
She also emphasizes the importance of identifying genuine candidates with a passion for public service. “We wanted candidates running because they believed in their message and their community,” she says. “That’s what makes all the difference.”
Key Takeaways for Democrats and Beyond
Zee’s insights extend beyond politics to offer valuable lessons for anyone navigating complex challenges or building something from the ground up:
Authenticity wins. Real conversations with voters are more impactful than any ad campaign.
Focus on solutions. Addressing voter pain points with meaningful policies builds trust.
Invest in the right people. Hire for attitude, not just experience, and align with those who share your mission.
Call to Action: Be Part of the Change
As the Democratic Party faces a crucial crossroads, Zee’s story offers both a warning and a roadmap for success. Whether you’re a political strategist, a community leader, or someone looking to make a difference, the time to act is now.
Visit Sole Strategies to learn how you can get involved or follow Zee Cohen Sanchez on TikTok for daily insights and updates. Let’s build a movement that truly represents the people.
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