The Working Families Party (WFP), which was founded in 1998. Now, buoyed by recent statewide electoral victories in the U.S. mainland, it’s preparing for a second act — and a big one at that — in the 2026 elections. The party claims more than 600,000 registered members. They’ve been vital in pushing those same candidates, like Zohran Mamdani, into policy-making positions of their own — including towards the New York City mayoralty itself. Taken as a whole, their recent endeavors illustrate a deeper commitment to working-class politics. They’re committed to breaking down every structural barrier that prevents third parties from gaining traction in the U.S.
Just last week, the WFP gained national headlines for forcing change to New Jersey’s electoral process. This was a radical break from a system that had long rewarded the party insiders. The party’s endorsees went on to win sweeping victories last year. They won in swing Dayton, Ohio, and Buffalo, New York, showcasing their potential to disrupt in places far outside safe Democratic cities.
“For 26 years, we’ve been building this argument,” he stated. “And the argument has met the moment.”
As the WFP turns toward the future, they aim to increase their participation in primary elections by directly supporting candidates that make working-class issues their priority. With a robust team of over 100 staff members, the party is aggressively recruiting candidates for state legislatures, aiming to flip chambers in favor of progressive policies.
Change voter sentiment is exact – the party has been winning lately, marking a significant turnaround from earlier elections. Increasingly, people are leaving behind the traditional definition of independence, not claiming party identification solely with one of the big two. Mitchell noted this trend, stating, “Less and less people are identifying as being a Democrat or Republican.”
The WFP have launched campaigns to oppose particularly harmful datacenter expansions. This powerful move reflects their commitment to enacting community-oriented policies that really listen to constituents and pave the way for vibrant communities. With hopes for a “wave election” in 2026, Mitchell remarked on the uncertainty surrounding the character and leadership of such a movement: “If there’s going to be a wave election, the ink hasn’t been dried on the character of that wave, who led that wave, and how that wave was won.”
The WFP’s brand has deeply enchanted liberals. In the past half-dozen or so mayoral contests, a larger share of voters has chosen the Working Families Party’s ballot line than the GOP’s. This accomplishment truly highlights their expanding reach in metropolitan areas and far outside them. Reaching strategic agreements Just as importantly, in New York City, the WFP took the initiative to create a slate of complementary candidates to the crowded mayoral primary. This decision really bolstered their joint advocacy.
The party’s commitment to grassroots activism and candidate recruitment signals a concerted effort to dismantle structural barriers that hinder third-party growth. Their goal is to build a political environment where a variety of voices can succeed, to undercut both parties’ stranglehold on power.
Mitchell articulated the party’s philosophy succinctly: “We cook what we have in the kitchen.” This pragmatic approach speaks to their resourcefulness and commitment to maximizing the resources they have to drive change.