About Us
Founded in 2018, Upper Left Strategies is dedicated to challenging conventional practices in campaign and public affairs, championing authenticity and transformative change. With a commitment to innovative advocacy and communication strategies, we provide clients with a tailored experience to effectively navigate the evolving landscape of political engagement and public discourse.
We seek to provide all of our clients with an experience, not just a service.
Michael Charles
Michael Charles is a seasoned political strategist with over 15 years of experience in the field. His journey began on the Obama 2008 campaign in Iowa, where he honed his passion for listening to and amplifying people's stories. Throughout his career, Michael has been instrumental in shaping public discourse and driving impactful change through his strategic vision and storytelling prowess.
With a diverse portfolio spanning both the public and private sectors, Michael has led numerous high-profile projects, leveraging his expertise in strategy, media, community outreach, and project management. He has played a pivotal role in campaigns at all levels of government, from local city councils to statewide and congressional races.
Michael's commitment to excellence and innovation has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor and collaborative leader. He has partnered with a wide range of clients, including political candidates, advocacy organizations, government agencies, and businesses, to develop tailored solutions that resonate with audiences and achieve tangible results.
Driven by a deep-seated belief in the power of communication to drive positive change, Michael continues to champion causes he believes in, working tirelessly to amplify voices, shape narratives, and build bridges across communities. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to serving others make him a formidable force in the world of politics and beyond.
Michael Fertakis
Michael Fertakis is a skilled practitioner with a decade of experience in political campaigns and government relations. Throughout his career, Michael has spearheaded field operations, directed mail campaigns, produced television advertisements, and implemented digital targeting strategies with a keen focus on harnessing the power of data.
Michael possesses a unique talent for distilling vast amounts of information into clear, concise summaries that empower campaign teams to make informed choices. Whether it's analyzing voter demographics, tracking engagement metrics, or assessing the effectiveness of targeted messaging, Michael's expertise shines through in his ability to extract meaningful patterns and trends. His innovative approach to utilizing analytics and targeted messaging has consistently delivered impactful results for his clients.
Michael's proficiency in data targeting has been instrumental in securing victories for numerous campaigns, from federal campaigns down to local races. Some of his notable wins include the highly successful Joe Nguyen for State Senate campaign, the prestigious 2020 Pollie Award-winning campaign for Girmay Zahilay's King County Council race, and the election of Rob Saka to the Seattle City Council in 2023.