By: Janet Howard | Photo courtesy: James Christopher Communications Inc
Discover how James Christopher transitioned from Press Director for the Brooklyn Democratic Party to launching James Christopher Communications Inc., focusing on authenticity, grassroots engagement, and strategic communication in New York politics.
In the competitive arena of New York politics, few transitions are as striking as moving from the heart of a major political party to launching an independent communications firm. James Christopher, former Press and Communications Director for the Brooklyn Democratic Party, has done exactly that. His new venture, James Christopher Communications Inc., represents both a personal milestone and a broader shift in how political strategists are redefining their careers for greater flexibility, independence, and impact.
Seizing the Opportunity: From Brooklyn Democratic Party to James Christopher Communications
Christopher’s leap into private consulting was fueled less by a grand plan and more by a wave of opportunity. After receiving multiple freelance requests from political candidates, nonprofit organizations, and private-sector clients, he decided it was time to fully commit to running his own firm.
“Everything I do, I want to do with delivering the best results,” Christopher explained. “I’d always dreamed of opening my own company… I’m very excited about it.”
His story reflects a growing trend among political professionals: leaving party structures to embrace entrepreneurial consulting careers where they can influence diverse causes without being tied to a single partisan apparatus.
The Core of Campaign Success: Authenticity and Strategic Communication
According to Christopher, one of the biggest mistakes local candidates make is abandoning their core message in favor of poll-driven shifts or consultant-crafted soundbites. This, he warns, can lead to voter skepticism.
“Most voters in New York City are savvy enough to tell when you’re being inauthentic,” he said. “If you’re really in it to make a change, stick with your values.”
In Brooklyn’s diverse political landscape, authenticity must be paired with strategic communication—tailoring outreach to different communities while keeping a consistent core message. Whether addressing seniors concerned about housing affordability or young voters passionate about education reform, Christopher emphasizes focusing on day-to-day concerns that resonate with real people.
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James Christopher with Gov. Andrew Cuomo, and Brooklyn Democratic Party District Leaders Viktoriya Mushailova and Joey Saban (of AD 45)
Lessons from the Campaign Trail: Grassroots Engagement Matters
Christopher points to the surprise primary victory of Zohran Mamdani as evidence of overlooked voter sentiment. Many assumed a Cuomo victory was inevitable, but Mamdani’s grassroots approach upended expectations.
For Christopher, this reinforces the power of face-to-face engagement and local-level campaigning:
– Be visible in the community
– Listen actively to residents’ concerns
– Build trust through sustained outreach
These lessons apply not only to high-profile races like the NYC mayoral contest, but also to smaller, local campaigns where direct voter contact can make the difference between winning and losing.
Advice for Young Political Hopefuls
For aspiring political leaders, Christopher recommends starting small. Opportunities such as serving as a district leader or joining a community board can provide invaluable experience in grassroots organizing.
His own career began with volunteering—knocking on doors, collecting petition signatures, and gradually earning responsibilities like managing social media and editing speeches. He believes that gratitude toward mentors and collaborators is essential for long-term success in the political world.
The Changing Face of Brooklyn Politics
Brooklyn’s political scene has undergone significant transformation in recent years. As New York City’s largest and most diverse borough, it has become a microcosm of national political shifts, including a noticeable rise in far-left movements gaining legitimacy.
Despite ideological differences, Christopher notes that affordable housing, better quality of life, and community safety are unifying goals for most Brooklyn residents. The challenge for candidates is finding common ground on how to achieve these shared objectives.
Elevating Voices: The Mission of James Christopher Communications
Through James Christopher Communications, Christopher focuses on advancing Democratic and select independent candidates who align with traditional democratic values. He also champions underrepresented communities, particularly disability advocacy groups that struggle to have their voices heard in policymaking.
By combining political strategy with nonprofit and private-sector communications, his firm aims to bridge gaps between citizens, candidates, and institutions.
Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn and her Assembly Office team with music legend Wyclef Jean, pictured with James Christopher
A Blueprint for Modern Political Strategy
James Christopher’s career trajectory—from party insider to independent strategist—offers a powerful case study in adapting to political realities while staying true to one’s principles. His emphasis on authenticity, grassroots engagement, and strategic communication serves as a blueprint for candidates and consultants navigating today’s complex electoral landscape.
As the next NYC mayoral race approaches, Christopher’s insights remind us that political success is not just about who runs, but how they connect, organize, and inspire.
For more information on James Christopher Communications Inc., visit james-christopher.com.
Click here to listen to interview.
From Party Insider to Independent Strategist: James Christopher’s Journey in Brooklyn Politics added by Caribbean American Weekly on
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