Brandon Straka, the founder of the #WalkAway campaign, a movement encouraging people to rethink their political alignments and to step away from the Democratic Party. Based in Omaha, Nebraska, Brandon started this campaign to create a platform for those who feel disenfranchised by the political left. As a former liberal himself, he now uses his experience to promote open dialogue and a more understanding political landscape.
What does success mean to you in the context of the #WalkAway campaign?
To me, success isn’t measured just by numbers—though reaching millions is impactful—it’s about the depth of change we foster. Each individual who feels empowered to speak up, who feels they’ve reclaimed their voice in the political discourse, is a mark of success. When someone tells me they’ve felt a renewed sense of freedom or understanding after participating in our movement, that’s when I know we’re succeeding.
How has your definition of success evolved since starting the #WalkAway campaign?
Initially, I thought success would simply mean having a large number of people join the campaign. However, over time, I’ve realized that the real success lies in changing hearts and minds in a meaningful way. It’s about creating lasting impacts, not just transient moments of agreement. This realization has shifted our strategies towards more educational and community-building efforts.
Can you describe a moment that you would consider a significant success for #WalkAway?
One of the most significant moments was when a young college student approached me after a speech. She had felt pressured to conform to her campus’s overwhelmingly liberal stance and was conflicted about her moderate views. After engaging with #WalkAway, she felt confident enough to start a dialogue club at her school to promote diverse political discussions. Seeing such tangible actions taken by individuals to foster open discussions in their own communities is a true measure of success.
What challenges have you faced in striving for success with #WalkAway?
The biggest challenge is the constant battle against misinformation and the stereotype of what it means to walk away from the left. Many accuse the campaign of sowing division, but our goal is to bridge divides by encouraging understanding and empathy. Overcoming these misconceptions and demonstrating the true purpose of our movement—promoting open and respectful dialogue—remains a persistent challenge.
Looking forward, what does future success look like for the campaign?
Looking ahead, success for #WalkAway would involve establishing a broader educational framework that can be implemented in schools and communities across the country. We want to equip people with the tools to think critically about media and political rhetoric. Expanding our reach internationally to inspire similar movements globally is also part of our vision. Ultimately, success means creating a sustainable and inclusive environment where political diversity is not just accepted but celebrated.
What advice do you have for others who strive to find success in their ventures?
My advice is to stay true to your vision, even when faced with opposition. It’s important to clearly define what success looks like for you and pursue it with determination. Be adaptable and open to learning from every experience, and always keep the people you’re serving at the heart of your mission. In the end, the impact you have on individual lives is the greatest measure of success.