Why I Associate With the Conservative, Forward, and Libertarian Parties More Than the Major Machine Parties
By Jared F. Konsker
Over this past off-election cycle, I have gotten more involved with the Conservative Party of New York State and have also begun to engage with the Forward and Libertarian Parties. I still vote for candidates in the major parties because in New York State, particularly on Long Island, we have fusion voting with minor parties. For the first time this election cycle, however, I voted on the C line, which is the Conservative line, because it sends a much bigger message.
Democrats and Republicans can be endorsed on this line because the focus is more on meritocracy than on what letter is next to a candidate’s name. While some of my viewpoints have shifted, others have remained the same. That can happen as you get older or as you work within certain industries.
I do want to recognize several people I have gotten to know during this cycle who have made me feel extremely welcome. Andrew Davis, who I spent about an hour on the phone with after the spring holidays discussing the party, was open and respectful even when some of my views differed. That is how it should be. I also got to know Jason Murillo, who ran for City Council District 2, as well as his campaign partner Vero G., who I became a strong supporter of. Gary Lutz, also known as the Catman, ran for office, secured his own line, and showed real progress within the party.
I then got to know Gonzalo Duran, the Vice Chair of the Bronx Conservative Party, who has one of the most compelling political stories I have heard. I first became aware of him when he briefly ran as a Conservative Party candidate for Mayor and later followed his run for Public Advocate. I strongly supported him, Gary, and many other Conservative Party candidates. There are many more worth mentioning.
Many people have become disenfranchised with the two-party system and increasingly frustrated. I believe we need more options on the ballot. Joe Manchin of West Virginia has advocated for the same idea, so this is not an isolated view. From a Forward Party perspective, I also support open primaries and ranked choice voting, which, when implemented correctly, can be effective.
I understand that for many New Yorkers, including myself, who were frustrated with the election of Zohran Mamdani, ranked choice voting may be the last thing on their minds. I have seen the reactions, and I understand them. However, another conservative voice I have come to know and support, Frank Morano, also supports ranked choice voting. Frank recently succeeded Joe Borelli in Staten Island. Borelli was a highly effective member of the City Council who ultimately chose to step away from politics due to frustration with the current climate.
Another reason people are turning to third parties is the broader political environment. I have observed discussions surrounding Tucker Carlson’s interview with Nick Fuentes. Many people have stated that this does not represent the Republican Party, and they are right. That is why some individuals choose to remain in a third party or as independents. However, we must be consistent in calling out antisemitism, not only on the left but also on the right. If we are serious about political integrity, we must condemn it wherever it appears.
If any of this resonates, consider getting involved with a third party. You can still remain a Democrat or Republican while engaging with alternative movements and rejecting machine politics. We need to think about the future.
This guest contribution comes from Jared F. Konsker, who shares his personal perspective on political engagement beyond the traditional two-party structure. His reflections offer insight into the growing interest in third parties and independent political thought.