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, businesses, advocacy organizations, tribal leaders, and government agencies 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 (pronounced Fur-talk-iss) is a Principal at Upper Left Strategies, where he leverages nearly 15 years of experience to lead winning political and advocacy campaigns. A Pacific Northwest native and Western Washington University alumnus, Michael has built a reputation as a premier strategist who blends traditional grassroots mobilization with cutting-edge data analytics.
Since joining Upper Left Strategies in 2018, Michael has worked with a diverse roster of clients ranging from local candidates to national organizations and federal campaigns. He is particularly recognized for his "data-first" philosophy, taking vast amounts of complex voter information and distilling it into clear, actionable strategies. From spearheading field operations and direct mail to producing television and digital ads, Michael’s work is defined by highly targeted messaging that resonates with specific voter demographics.
Whether he is navigating a federal race or a local initiative, Michael remains committed to building strong coalitions and driving results. Outside of the war room, he stays active in the Seattle community and the outdoors, often found hiking, snowboarding, or occasionally getting first place with his trivia team.