Third-Party Hopeful Takes on the Two-Party System

Kimberly Wilder knows she faces an uphill battle winning a State Assembly seat on a minor-party line, but the longtime political activist believes her campaign serves a purpose beyond Election Day: giving voters a choice.

Running on the independent Voter Options line in the Second Assembly District, Wilder challenges Republican-Conservative incumbent Jodi Giglio and Democrat Michael Szika, whom she describes as a largely invisible candidate.

“I don't even necessarily know if I'm going to win,” Wilder told the South Shore Press Editorial Board. “But what I'm doing is I'm trying to explore the political process, see if I can make it more fair, give voters options, and educate people about what they can do.”

Wilder's campaign comes amid controversy surrounding Suffolk Democratic Chairman Rich Schaffer's cross-endorsement arrangements with Republicans and Conservatives, which critics contend deprive voters of meaningful choices.

The controversy fueled Southold Democratic Chair Kathryn Casey Quigley's unsuccessful challenge to Schaffer, who retained his leadership position despite nearly 43% of the weighted vote going against him.

Although not a registered Democrat, Wilder firmly opposes Schaffer's political dealmaking and sympathizes with reformers seeking a more grassroots party.

“I don't like Schaffer,” she declared, describing years of frustration with Democratic candidates she believes were placed on ballots without serious campaigns.

“I'm not gonna be Schaffer's dog,” Wilder said, insisting she would remain independent even if elected.

A former Green Party candidate and Riverhead school board hopeful, Wilder describes herself as an “electoral activist” who supports progressive causes, environmental protection and government transparency.

She said she would caucus with Assembly Democrats but maintain her independence.

Wilder hopes voters will find her solitary ballot line. “I'm outstanding in my field,” she joked, “so please find me in my field.”

The 2nd Assembly district encompasses Riverhead and eastern Brookhaven communities, including Miller Place, Mount Sinai and Center Moriches.